POLICY ANALYSIS GRADE-EVALUATION GUIDE

Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide

Table of Contents

COVERAGE..................................................................................................................................................2

BACKGROUND INFORMATION..................................................................................................................3

RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER STANDARDS AND GUIDES.........................................................................5

EXCLUSIONS...............................................................................................................................................5

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES.............................................................................6

SERIES DETERMINATION..........................................................................................................................7

TITLES..........................................................................................................................................................7

GRADING OF POSITIONS...........................................................................................................................8

EVALUATION NOTES..................................................................................................................................8

GRADE CONVERSION TABLE...................................................................................................................9

FACTOR LEVEL DESCRIPTIONS...............................................................................................................9

FACTOR 1, KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION..................................................................9

FACTOR 2, SUPERVISORY CONTROLS.............................................................................................18

FACTOR 3, GUIDELINES......................................................................................................................20

FACTOR 4, COMPLEXITY.....................................................................................................................22

FACTOR 5, SCOPE AND EFFECT........................................................................................................30

FACTOR 6, PERSONAL CONTACTS...................................................................................................36

FACTOR 7, PURPOSE OF CONTACTS ...............................................................................................37

FACTOR 8, PHYSICAL DEMANDS.......................................................................................................38

FACTOR 9, WORK ENVIRONMENT.....................................................................................................39

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

COVERAGE

This guide is to be used only for classifying policy analysis positions that require professional

knowledge, skills, and abilities and is applicable to policy analysis assignments in both the

Executive and Legislative Branches of the Federal Government. Professional occupations are

identified as such in the series definitions that appear in the classification standards and in the

Handbook of Occupational Groups and Families. Further, professional occupations are defined

in the

Introduction to the Position Classification Standards, Part III, Principles and Policies of

Position Classification, as follows:

"Professional work requires knowledge in a field of science or learning

characteristically acquired through education or training equivalent to a bachelor's

or higher degree with major study in or pertinent to the specialized field, as

distinguished from general education.

Work is professional when it requires the exercise of discretion, judgment, and

personal responsibility for the application of an organized body of knowledge that

is constantly studied to make new discoveries and interpretations, and to improve

data, materials, and methods, e.g., mathematics or engineering.

There are situations in which an employee meets the formal education

requirements for a particular professional field but does not perform professional

work. This may be due to a lack of professional work to be done, or it may be

because the organization and structure of the assignment does not require a

professionally qualified employee. In such situations, the position is classified in

an appropriate nonprofessional series, based on the duties and responsibilities

assigned and the qualifications required to do the work.

Professional occupational series follow a two-grade interval pattern and are

identified as professional in the series definitions. If a series definition does not

state that the work covered is professional, it should not be considered

professional for classification purposes."

This guide provides criteria for evaluating the grade level of professional and scientific positions

primarily concerned with the analysis of public policy issues and their impact on social,

economic, scientific, legal, diplomatic, environmental, and other issues of national and

international significance. Positions covered by this guide are found in a wide variety of

traditional, academic disciplines such as biological science, economics, education, engineering,

international relations, law, physical science, and social science.

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Policy makers have long used subject matter experts to advise them, to defend their decisions, or

both. Traditionally, these subject matter specialists serve on the immediate staff of the political

decision maker, providing advice and assistance on specific issues when requested. Normally

the expert's analyses tend to accord with the views of the decision maker, building a supporting

rationale for the position of the decision maker or providing arguments against opposing

positions. Advocates of this approach believe that full and free competition between opposing

ideas will result in policies and programs that are, through compromise and coalition building,

acceptable to the broad majority.

The complexities of the technological and information explosions in recent years have caused

many to question the wisdom of this decision making process. Many policy makers are now

persuaded that an independent body of subject matter specialists, free of bias and partisanship,

should also study the issues and provide balanced and objective advice. Thus, Executive Branch

agencies have established staff offices and appointed career experts to examine issues and offer

comprehensive analyses of such issues. For example, offices of "policy analysis," "planning and

evaluation" staffs, and "special studies" divisions are now established in most Executive Branch

agencies. The Congress, in addition to its own immediate staffs, has established new agencies

such as the Congressional Budget Office and the Office of Technology Assessment and

redefined or expanded the roles of the General Accounting Office and the Congressional

Research Service in the Library of Congress to have available advice and analysis that is, by

statutory mandate, objective and nonpartisan.

The policy analyst, as defined in this guide, is set apart from other participants in the decision

making process by his or her professional objectivity, nonpartisan ship, balance, and ability to

provide comprehensive advice and analysis. The policy analyst serves the political decision

making process by providing comprehensive, balanced information and analysis to all sides of

policy issues rather than by advancing the ideas of a single decision maker, philosophy, or point

of view. The policy analyst discerns and describes the interrelationship of facts and issues to one

another; identifies theories and schools of thought and develops objective Criteria to evaluate

them; assesses the political and institutional environment in which decisions are made and

implemented; identifies and frames arguments for and against, advantages and disadvantages,

risks and benefits, or strengths and weaknesses associated with particular proposals; assesses and

compares the likely impact of alternative proposals; and identifies, develops, and evaluates

various methods of implementing particular policy proposals.

Policy analysts utilize a variety of techniques to accomplish the full range of their assignments.

In some instances, significant emphasis is placed on the empirical method; in others, policy

analysts rely more on use of quantitative techniques such as economic models, cost-benefit

analysis, queuing approaches, linear programming, decision analysis, systems analysis, and

simulation models in their discussion and evaluation of public issues. These techniques assist in

identifying options and presenting information in a logical manner.

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The organizational mission, level of issue priority time constraints, and availability of pertinent

information shape the scope of an analytical effort and the range of possible policy alternatives.

In addition, the policy analyst must be aware of significant historical circumstances surrounding

a policy issue, precedent actions, unresolved questions, current trends, sensitivities of policy

makers to proposed options, long-range effects and implications of possible courses of action,

and the need to recognize and treat uncertainty.

Illustrative examples of policy analysis assignments performed by incumbents of positions

covered by this guide include but are not limited to:

Economic Affairs

An analysis of the impact of the freeze on a foreign government's assets in the U.S.; an inquiry

concerning regional patterns of coal mining employment and effect of sulfur control

requirements on employment; an evaluation of the results of collective bargaining agreements in

selected industries; an inquiry into public works programs and their effect in compensating for

cyclical unemployment; an in-depth discussion of national labor productivity;

Environment and Energy

A forecast of U.S. energy supply and demand and implications for U. S. energy policy; an

assessment of the national consequences of removing the restricted use classification for

pesticides; a study of the effect of environmental standards on hazardous waste facilities; an

analysis of water pollution control standards affecting the efficiency of industries discharging

pollutants into navigable waters; a study of alternative systems for minimizing the environmental

effects of polluted air emissions; an examination of alternative breeding cycles for nuclear

power;

Foreign Affairs and Defense

An analysis of human rights in the People's Republic of China and future prognosis vis-à-vis

U.S. foreign policy; a study of Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty III-Air Defense Issues and

Force Reduction; a study to aid in the formulation of policy guidance for the employment and

deployment of nuclear weapons in support of U.S. allies;

Human Services

An analysis of the modification or elimination of Federal impact economic assistance to local

school districts educating significant numbers of children of Federal employees; an examination

and evaluation of retirement income proposals for women; an examination of the options for

financing the social security programs; a study to aid in the formulation of a national policy on

disability services and benefits; the examination of a health care policy for the older American;

an evaluation of welfare policies governing the placement of persons in institutions; an

assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of a national health insurance plan; a study of

the effects of Federal Government benefits on elderly participants (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid,

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

public housing, food stamps); an assessment of the relationship between Federally-funded

disability and retirement policies.

Legal Affairs

An inquiry into liability for the discharge of water pollutants into navigable waters; a report on

the constitutionality of normalization of relationships with the People's Republic of China by

executive agreement rather than by treaty; advice, analysis, and other assistance concerning

congressional access to privately, judicially, or executively held information; a study of the

jurisdictional consequences of enactment of a criminal code revision proposal; examination of

the comparability between the due process protections afforded in congressional and criminal

proceedings; a report of the impact of enactment or revision of the copyright law on regulation of

cable television; an analysis of various appropriation bill riders that may effect civil rights and its

enforcement; a study of the implementing legislation required by the proposed Law of the Sea

Treaty.

RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER STANDARDS AND GUIDES

This guide supplements published classification standards for specific professional occupations

(e.g.,

Economics, GS-0110, Mechanical Engineering, GS-0830, Nuclear Engineering, GS-0840,

General Attorney, GS-0905, Oceanography, GS-1360). It supersedes the grade-level criteria in

the individual standards for positions concerned with policy analysis. Positions that are entirely

or primarily oriented to policy analysis should be evaluated by this guide. Grade-level criteria in

the individual standards will still apply to positions in which the incumbents spend a

preponderance of their time in work not covered by this guide.

Supervisory positions that meet fully the "minimum level of supervisory responsibility" as

defined in the

General Schedule Supervisory Guide should be evaluated by application of the

criteria provided in that guide.

EXCLUSIONS

Excluded from coverage of this guide are:

1. Positions that primarily involve planning, performing, coordinating, and/or evaluating

administrative work normally associated with the internal management of government

agencies. Specifically excluded from coverage are positions found in the

Job Family

Position Classification Standard for Administrative Work in the Human Resources

Management Group, GS-0200, the Management and Program Analysis Series, GS-0343,

the

Financial Management Series, GS-0505, and the Job Family Position Classification

Standard for Professional and Administrative Work in the Accounting and Budget Group,

GS-0500.

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

2. Positions that primarily involve conducting professional or scientific work in support of

policy analysis, for example, professional positions conducting highly expert economic,

statistical, or engineering studies in support of one or a few aspects of a total policy

study. Such positions are classified by reference to the classification criteria found in the

published standards for that discipline, rather than the material found in this guide.

3. Positions that primarily involve the performance of professional work in collecting,

processing, cataloging, preserving, retrieving, and/or transmitting recorded knowledge

and information. Such positions are classified by reference to published standards for the

Librarian Series, GS-1410, and the Technical Information Series, GS-1412.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

The knowledges, skills, and abilities (KSAs) required for policy analysis work will differ,

depending on the grade level of the position and its organizational location. The KSAs listed

below are the principal KSAs required to fulfill the objectives of most policy analysis functions:

1. Knowledge of a pertinent professional subject matter field or fields;

2. Knowledge of public policy issues related to a subject matter field;

3. Knowledge of the executive/legislative decision making process;

4. Knowledge of pertinent research and analytical methodology;

5. Knowledge of programs or organizations and activities to which the subject matter

knowledge relates;

6. Skill in dealing with decision makers and their immediate staffs;

7. Skill in interacting with other specialists and experts in the same or related fields;

8. Skill in dealing effectively with voluminous amounts of information;

9. Skill in preparing and presenting highly complex technical material or highly complex

issues, or both, to non-specialists;

10. Skill in assessing the political and institutional environment in which decisions are made

and implemented;

11. Ability to explore and present fully the many facets of a policy issue;

12. Ability to exercise judgment in all phases of analysis -- ranging from sorting out the most

important problems, to sifting evidence, and framing feasible options;

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

13. Ability to effectively express ideas orally and in writing, using appropriate language,

organizing ideas, and marshaling facts in an objective manner;

14. Ability to work effectively under the pressure of tight time-frames and rigid deadlines.

SERIES DETERMINATION

Positions covered by this grade evaluation guide will continue to be classified to the appropriate

established classification series in accordance with the definitions published in the Office of

Personnel Management's "

Handbook of Occupational Groups and Families," and the amplifying

material in published position classification standards.

In many cases, the appropriate classification series will be one of the traditional academic

disciplines, such as economics, biology, physics, engineering, or sociology.

In other situations, the work of the position may require knowledge of a combination of two or

more academic disciplines, or the application of knowledge characteristic of either of two (or

more) academic disciplines. In such interdisciplinary situations, the job related qualifications of

the incumbent or proposed incumbent are usually highly significant in selecting the most

appropriate classification series.

Other positions may require extensive knowledge of a broad spectrum of a group of related

disciplines rather than intensive knowledge of one or more academic disciplines. Such positions

typically are classified to broader series such as the General Social Science Series, GS-0101, the

General Physical Science Series, GS-1301, the General Health Science Series, GS-0601, the

General Biological Science Series, GS-0401, or the General Engineering Series, GS-0801.

TITLES

Titles to be used for positions classified under this guide are the appropriate titles approved for

the occupational series to which the positions are classified. For positions in occupational series

for which titles have not been specified, e.g., the General Social Science Series, GS-0101, or the

General Physical Science Series, GS-1301, appropriate titles, e.g., Social Scientist or Physical

Scientist should be used. The use of the organizational title Policy Analyst is authorized and

encouraged.

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GRADING OF POSITIONS

This guide utilizes the Factor Evaluation System format but does not provide benchmarks. The

wide variety of professional disciplines engaged in policy analysis and the diversity of work

situations make it impracticable to develop meaningful benchmarks. The factor level

descriptions provided in the guide are to be used to classify nonsupervisory professional

positions involved in policy analysis work at grades GS-05 through GS-15. Please note that

since most positions in this function require advanced academic degrees or equivalent

experience, coupled with a knowledge of the public policy making process, positions at the full

performance level presently are rarely found below GS-12. Moreover, positions below GS-11

that are involved in work associated with this function are usually trainees or subject-matter

support positions in large policy analysis organizations. Trainee policy analyst positions may be

evaluated using the criteria found in this guide.

EVALUATION NOTES

Positions should be evaluated on a factor-by-factor basis by reference to the factor level

descriptions found in this guide. Only the designated point values may be used. More complete

instructions for evaluating positions are contained in

The Classifier's Handbook and the

Introduction to the Position Classification Standards.

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

GRADE CONVERSION TABLE

Total points on all evaluation factors are converted to GS grade as follows:

Point Range

GS Grade

855-1100

1105-1350

1355-1600

1605-1850

1855-2100

2105-2350

2355-2750

2755-3150

3155-3600

3605-4050 14

4055-up 15

FACTOR LEVEL DESCRIPTIONS

FACTOR 1, KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

Factor 1 measures the extent of substantive and procedural knowledge that the policy analyst

must possess in order to do acceptable work and the nature and extent of the skills needed to

apply those knowledges. This factor includes verbal skills sufficient to formulate written or oral

presentations of findings that communicate clearly their import and significance. To be used as a

basis for selecting a level under this factor, such knowledge must be required and applied to the

work.

Additional information regarding this factor may be found in the introductory material of this

guide, particularly under the headings "

Background Information" and "Required Knowledges,

Skills, and Abilities."

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

This factor is closely related to Factor 4, Complexity, and Factor 5, Scope and Effect.

Consequently, the level selected under this factor should be compatible with the levels selected

under Factors 4 and 5.

Level 1-5 -- 750 Points

A basic foundation of the concepts and principles of a professional field or discipline that

provides a framework enabling the employee to perform developmental tasks for advancement to

higher level public policy analysis assignments. This knowledge would typically be acquired

through a Bachelor's degree curriculum in professional fields such as Economics, Political

Science, International Relations, Sociology, Education, Engineering, Mathematics, and the

Physical and Biological Sciences, that provides an understanding of professional methods and/or

techniques necessary to carry out basic studies or analyses. Skill in applying this knowledge,

through written exposition or selection of appropriate information or reference materials, to carry

out elementary assignments that relate subject matter knowledge and analytical skills to the

analysis of public policy issues.

Equivalent knowledge and skill.

Level 1-6 -- 950 Points

Knowledge of the principles, concepts, methods, and techniques of a profession sufficient to

perform independently analytical assignments of moderate difficulty, i.e., when public policy

research methods and analytical techniques are established and reasonably applicable to the

issues or study under consideration, and do not require significant departure from accepted

precedents. Skill is required in the oral and/ or written communication of research efforts

including formulation of issues, logical discussion of pertinent facts and data, and presentation of

the findings consistent with study content. Assignments at this level are limited and may be

characterized as follows:

$ The problem is straightforward, or has been singled out of a larger study;

$ Unknown factors or relationships are primarily matters of a factual nature or the

processes involved are fairly well understood; and/or

$ Data can be obtained by the use of established analytical and investigative methods and

techniques with minor adaptations that can be worked out by the use of conventional

procedures.

Equivalent knowledge and skill.

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Illustrations:

1. Knowledge of economics and skill in applying economic techniques sufficient to

respond to requests from congressional offices for information and reports

regarding residential housing and housing finance. Applies specific knowledge of

housing and mortgage finance, quantitative techniques, econometrics, and

research methodology. Prepares reports, that are usually parts of larger studies,

describing Federal programs and current problems as a basis for legislative policy

and examining and comparing provisions of proposed legislation. (See also

illustrations 4-3 #1 and 5-3 #1.)

2. Knowledge of economics and skill in applying economic techniques sufficient to

provide senior policy analysts as well as Members and committees of Congress

and their staffs with factual information and analyses regarding energy use in the

transportation industry. Applies specific knowledges of legislation and Federal

programs related to transportation energy issues; provides factual information and

writes brief analytical reports on energy consumption; analyzes and compares

alternative legislative proposals; and identifies and clarifies issues in the subject

matter area. (See also

illustrations 4-4 #1 and 5-3 #2.)

Level 1-7 -- 1250 Points

Professional knowledge and skills sufficient to perform a wide range of responsibilities and

duties, evaluate and present divergent professional opinions affecting significant public policy

issues and define and describe feasible options, including the consequences of their adoption.

Typically, such knowledge would be gained through extended graduate study, or experience and

professional development activities equivalent to such study in a professional field, coupled with

the skill to apply this knowledge to public policy issues. Knowledge and skill at this level must

include:

- A perception of opposing views and biases within the profession;

- The ability to use judgment in the presentation of options that represent divergent views

and describe the possible consequences of adopting such options; and

- Evidence of skill to select, organize, and present appropriate information in a concise and

coherent manner and to relate such information to broad areas of public policy.

Knowledge at this level must be sufficient to permit the initiation and maintenance of personal

liaison with policy making staffs on assignments of limited scope that involve the application of

specialized knowledge to questions of public policy. The differences between this level and

Level 1-6 include broader comprehension of the field of knowledge, a demonstrated

understanding of divergent concepts within the profession, and proficiency in research

methodology.

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Equivalent knowledge and skill.

Illustrations:

1. Knowledge of international relations and skill sufficient to prepare background

and analytical reports for Members and committees of Congress on issues facing

the United States in Western Europe, including alliance relationships, East-West

issues, and economic problems and relationships. Utilizes professional

knowledge of international relations with emphasis on Western Europe and

knowledge of international economics, as well as knowledge of the role of

Congress in foreign policy and the organizational processes by which Congress

deals with foreign policy questions. Ability to relate information to the policy

concerns of Congress. Identifies and clarifies issues; identifies and presents

opposing views without bias; evaluates policy options and examines the

consequences of adopting them. (See also

illustrations 4-4 #2 and 5-4 #1.)

2. Knowledge of physical science and space technology and skill sufficient to

provide Congress with state-of-the-art technical descriptions and policy

evaluations of technology in such areas as nuclear breeder reactors, nuclear

proliferation, and space exploration. Utilizes knowledge of the theory and

practical application of breeder reactors in the U.S., of the policies and issues

associated with such reactors, of space policies and projects of the U.S. and the

U.S.S.R., coupled with knowledge of the organization and procedures of

Congress and the jurisdiction of relevant committees. Work products include

descriptions of technology, explanations of theory, analyses of effectiveness of

programs within the executive branch, comparison of alternative policy proposals,

and analyses of the consequences of adopting various policy options. (See also

illustrations 4-4 #3 and 5-4 #2.)

3. Knowledge of chemistry and skill sufficient to technically evaluate the

environmental impact of regulations and law on petroleum refining and the

conversion of power plants from oil to coal as an energy source. Utilizes this

professional knowledge coupled with a knowledge of regulatory enforcement to

personally conduct studies as well as technically review detailed technical

analyses conducted by others to assist in the development of agency policy and

regulations affecting significant industrial processes. (See also

illustrations 4-4

#4 and 5-4 #3.)

4. Knowledge of engineering and skill sufficient to conduct specific studies related

to energy proposals. Conducts significant portions of broad, in-depth technical

analyses of the impact of existing or proposed regulatory and policy alternatives

prepared by pertinent agency program offices. Develops energy and

environmental impact models that reflect economic, scientific, and engineering

considerations appropriate to the industry or geographic area being studied.

Utilizes statistical, engineering, and financial analysis methodologies to forecast

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such effects as increased demand for domestically produced fossil fuels, increased

demand for imported oil, and interfuel shifts (e.g., conversion from oil to coal);

develops pro-con analyses; proposes options and alternatives to current or

proposed policies. (See also

illustrations 4-4 #5 and 5-4 #4.)

Level 1-8 -- 1550 Points

Mastery of one or more specialized areas of a professional field and skill sufficient to apply new

analytical developments, methodologies, and research findings to broad public policy issues.

Skill sufficient to extend and refine existing techniques and to develop new approaches to the

analysis of public policy issues. Skill sufficient to conduct probing, innovative analyses

involving complex variables that impact significantly on the effective development,

interpretation, or implementation of important public policies. Typically, the analyst is

considered by his/her peers and policy makers to be a professional authority in a specific area of

public policy, and is frequently requested by policy makers or their immediate staff to conduct

specific studies that require the application of these knowledges and skills to complex public

policy problems.

The differences between this level and Level 1-7 include the demonstrated ability of the policy

analyst to relate complex variables within a broad field of professional knowledge to specific

public policy issues in an effective and cogent manner; the ability to make realistic assessments

of the political and institutional environment in which policy alternatives will be considered,

chosen, and implemented; and the recognition by the decision maker of the expertise of the

analyst to deal with complex issues.

Equivalent knowledge and skill

Illustrations:

1. Knowledge of political science and skill sufficient to provide research and

analytical information to Congress on the administration of elections, on voter

participation, and on initiative and referendum. Requires expert knowledge of

Federal and State election laws and of initiative and referendum laws. Skill

sufficient to apply statistical methods to the analysis of voting patterns as related

to variables such as election law requirements and socioeconomic factors. Skill

sufficient to identify and discuss with Members and staff of Congress the impact

of alternative policy proposals on election laws. (See also

illustrations 4-5 #1 and

5-5 #1.)

2. Knowledge of social science and skill sufficient to respond to congressional

requests for information and expert policy analysis by preparing reports regarding

family and child welfare, including such subject areas as social services, marriage

and the family, Head Start programs, child and spouse abuse, and adoption.

Applies comprehensive professional knowledge of the subject area, statistical

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methodology, and knowledge of Federal legislation and existing programs to the

study of public policy questions and legislative initiatives. Identifies, defines, and

proposes comprehensive policy studies that serve to define major issues and lead

to new or revised legislative policy proposals. (See also

illustrations 4-5 #2 and

5-5 #2.)

3. Knowledge of social science and skill sufficient to perform in-depth analysis of

the wide variety of factors relating to the establishment and evaluation of health

care maintenance organizations. Uses this knowledge and skill to identify and

define major issues, review appropriate source materials, and prepare agency

policy documents and legislative proposals concerning health care financing and

delivery of such major items as ambulatory medical care, dental care, the

treatment and care of mental illness, and reduction and possible elimination of

drug and alcohol abuse. (See also

illustrations 4-4 #6 and 5-4 #5.)

4. Knowledge and skill sufficient to serve as a headquarters level staff specialist

responsible for providing policy analysis in the fields of ocean engineering,

seabed mining, and related fields (e.g., marine transportation technology, fisheries

technology, land-based resource policy). Utilizing comprehensive subject matter

knowledges, develops sources of information; identifies and performs analyses of

issues; develops options and alternatives providing in-depth technical analyses;

coordinates findings with other specialists; and prepares written reports for and/or

provides oral briefings to agency policy makers. Serves as an expert

representative of the agency as an active participant at national and international

conferences. (See also

illustrations 4-5 #3 and 5-5 #3.)

5. Knowledge of social science and skill sufficient to serve as an expert responsible

for developing issues and presenting analyses of a comprehensive national policy

on disability, a long-range undertaking having major implications for developing,

targeting, and managing governmental and private programs for serving disabled

persons at the Federal, State, and local levels. Utilizing a broad knowledge of

Federal, State, local, and private human service agencies, programs, and

operations, systems analysis and quantitative techniques, and expert knowledge of

emerging trends in social science, social insurance, and administration of public

programs relating to disability, assures that policy options are thoroughly defined

and presented by critically examining complex statistical and narrative data. (See

also

illustrations 4-5 #4 and 5-5 #4.)

6. Knowledge and skill sufficient to serve as a professional legal specialist providing

and interpreting legal information on complex questions of law of several foreign

countries having similar or closely related judicial systems (e.g., England,

Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Australia) for

Members of Congress, congressional staff, officials of the Legislative, Executive,

and Judicial Branches, and others. Knowledge and skill sufficient to prepare

reports, conduct oral briefings, and render legal advice and opinions concerning

foreign law and enforcement practices of foreign nations. Work products of the

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

analyst assist a wide range of Federal agencies in their formulation of legislation

and regulations. (See also

illustrations 4-5 #5 and 5-5 #5.)

7. Knowledge and skill sufficient to permit the policy analyst to serve as a legal

expert in copyright law, regulations, and practices. Knowledge and skill

sufficient to perform the most thorough and exacting legal research for cases or

issues having a fundamental impact on copyright policies. Skill in presenting

findings through the use of documented case law, past practices, etc., to policy

making bodies. Serves as an expert resource at national and international

meetings involving copyright law and policies. (See also

illustrations 4-5 #6 and

5-5 #6.)

Level 1-9 -- 1850 Points

Mastery of a range of specialized areas within a professional field and a comprehensive

knowledge of public issues or programs related to a specialty field. Professional knowledge and

skills sufficient to generate and apply new hypotheses and concepts in planning, conducting, and

evaluating long-range projects or proposals for the solution of complex public policy questions.

Interpersonal and administrative skills sufficient to organize and coordinate thorough,

systematic, professional efforts that may involve multidisciplinary approaches, to meet

established and anticipated needs of decision makers.

The differences between this level and Level 1-8 include: (1) the demonstrated capability of the

policy analyst to apply broad knowledge of a profession and comprehensive knowledge of public

issues or programs related to the analyst's field of expertise to assist policy makers in considering

policy proposals during the executive and/ or legislative decision making process; and (2) the

recognition of the analyst's professional expertise by the principals in the Federal decision

making process such as Members of Congress and congressional committee staff, high ranking

appointed officials in the executive and legislative branch, high ranking officials in State

governments, public interest groups, the courts, and subject matter experts and policy analysts in

the Federal community.

Equivalent knowledge and skill.

Illustrations:

1. Knowledge of biology and economics and skill sufficient to provide Members and

committees of Congress with authoritative analyses of issues in the area of

wildlife and fisheries as biological resources. Utilizing a comprehensive

knowledge of biology and economics and the ability to plan and coordinate

multidisciplinary studies leading to policy options available to Congress, applies

skills to develop and evaluate legislative proposals for the solution of complex

national problems and to provide authoritative, direct, assistance to Members of

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Congress during hearings and markup sessions. (See also illustrations 4-6 #1 and

5-6 #1.)

2. Knowledge of political science and skill sufficient to provide authoritative

assistance to congress in studies of its own rules, procedures, and organization.

Requires comprehensive knowledge of the operations, rules, procedures, and

organization of both the House and the Senate and the demonstrated ability to

work directly with Members of Congress in examining and developing policy

options (e.g., new committee jurisdictions). Recognition by Members and

chairmen of such committees as select committees on congressional

reorganization of the expertise of the analyst and his or her ability to provide

critical assistance to their studies and proposals. Knowledge and skill sufficient

to plan and coordinate long-range studies of congressional organization, rules,

and procedures. (See also

illustrations 4-6 #2 and 5-6 #2.)

3. Knowledge of economics and skill to act as a recognized authority in national

public works and housing policy issues. As an analyst at the primary policy level

in the executive branch, identifies, defines, and develops issues; and plans,

conducts, and evaluates broad nationwide studies of the construction industry and

housing practices and policies (such as the examination of public work as a

method of counter cyclical assistance, and housing affordability in an inflationary

environment). Presents detailed study results and options to policy makers at the

primary policy level for their consideration and action. (See also

illustrations 4-6

#3 and 5-6 #3.)

4. Knowledge and skill sufficient to serve as a recognized authority in the legal and

technical analysis and development of policy options as they relate to the

fostering and assuring of competition in the coal and pipeline industries.

Knowledge and skill sufficient to plan, conduct, coordinate, and evaluate

extensive, long-range studies and develop legal, economic, and technical analyses

relating to competition in the energy industry. (See also

illustrations 4-6 #4 and

5-6 #4.)

5. Knowledge of engineering and oceanography and skill to serve as the recognized

expert for a major Federal agency in the broad area of coastal zone management

policy. Utilizing these knowledges coupled with an extensive knowledge of the

laws, programs, and activities of Federal and State Governments, personally

performs, oversees, and/or coordinates studies having a significant role in the

establishment of Federal policy, regulations, and legislation related to the use and

management of the coastal zone. In areas of own expertise, coordinates activities

with those of other executive and legislative branch agencies as well as State

governments. (See also

illustrations 4-6 #5 and 5-6 #5.)

6. Knowledge and skill sufficient to serve as a recognized expert in the scientific

and technical analysis of strategic arms limitation issues and development of

policy options as they relate to strategic and theater nuclear issues of arms

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limitations negotiations. Knowledge of such areas as force planning and analysis,

offensive and defensive strategic forces and potential threat forces, and a

thorough knowledge of overall national security objectives, policies, and

planning. Skill in applying these knowledges to analyze, develop policy options,

and present study results of the most complex and significant major defense

program issues and policy alternatives. (See also

illustrations 4-6 #6 and 5-6 #6.)

7. Knowledge and skill sufficient to serve as a recognized expert in Social Security

financing and to undertake comprehensive analyses of the issue. Knowledge of

Social Security principles, broad economic and demographic trends, and social

science analysis techniques (e.g., case studies, statistical analyses, use of

computer models) sufficient to have the confidence of high ranking Members of

Congress and committee staff in assessing options for strengthening the financing

of the Social Security system. Ability to apply judgment in discerning the

fundamental causes of financial difficulty; to assess the political and institutional

environment in which financing options will be considered, chosen, and

implemented; to knit historical perspective and multiple skills and knowledge in

framing and assessing alternatives; to lead other analysts in team efforts; and to

work effectively with the highest level congressional counterparts in planning

hearings, drafting reports and analyses, and providing on-the-spot advice to

committee staff in markup and conference sessions. (See also

illustrations 4-6 #7

and

5-6 #7.)

8. Knowledge and skill sufficient to provide Members and committees of Congress

with analysis, advice, and assistance in the area of election law. Requires a

comprehensive knowledge of Federal and State election laws, including judicial

interpretation of constitutional restrictions, to develop and evaluate alternatives

for the use of Members and congressional committees considering modification

of Federal election law. Knowledge and skill sufficient to provide authoritative,

direct, assistance to Members and senior staff during the various stages of

legislative consideration including introduction, hearings, markup sessions,

preparation of committee reports, floor debates, and conferences. (See also

illustrations 4-6 #8 and 5-6 #8.)

9. Knowledge and skill sufficient to provide Members and committees of Congress

with authoritative analysis, advice, and assistance on complex tax issues. Utilizes

a comprehensive knowledge of Federal tax law, including judicial and

administrative interpretations sufficient to suggest, advise on, and analyze for

Members and congressional committees proposals for revision of existing Federal

tax laws and the use of the tax structure to address other major policy issues.

Knowledge and skill sufficient to provide authoritative, direct, assistance to

Members and senior staff during the various stages of legislative consideration

including hearings, markup sessions, committee reports, floor debates, and

conferences. (See also

illustrations 4-6 #9 and 5-6 #9.)

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FACTOR 2, SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

"Supervisory Controls" covers the nature and extent of direct or indirect controls exercised by

the supervisor, the employee's responsibility, and the review of completed work. Controls are

exercised by the supervisor in the way assignments are made, instructions are given, priorities

and deadlines are set, and objectives and boundaries are defined. The responsibility of the

analyst depends upon the extent to which he or she is expected to develop the sequence and

timing of various aspects of the work, to modify or recommend modification of instructions, and

to participate in establishing priorities and defining objectives. The degree of review of

completed work depends upon the nature and extent of the review, e. g., close and detailed

substantive and procedural review of each phase of the assignment; detailed substantive review

of the finished assignment; or review for adherence to agency policy.

In a significant number of policy analysis functions, it is common- place to find senior policy

analysts planning and coordinating projects of considerable scope, breadth, and complexity.

Although many of these senior analysts may not perform the full range of functions that would

cause them to be designated as a supervisor, senior analysts in such work settings are often

placed in a leadership role over other policy analysts that may have a significant impact on the

evaluation of this factor. In evaluating positions that are found in such situations, it is often

necessary to explore not only the employee's relationship to his or her officially designated

first-line supervisor, but also the analyst's relationships with senior analysts serving as project

leaders, to gain a complete understanding of the supervisory controls over the work performed.

Level 2-1 -- 25 Points

Assignments are made by the supervisor or a senior policy analyst along with clear, detailed, and

specific instructions as to form, methodology, sources, and priority.

The analyst consults with the supervisor or a senior policy analyst on all problems not covered in

original instructions.

Work products are reviewed for form, accuracy, appropriate organization, methodology,

responsiveness, sources, and conformance with agency policy. Work products are routinely

modified at the supervisor's discretion.

Level 2-2 -- 125 Points

Assignments are made by the supervisor or a senior policy analyst along with instructions as to

priority of assignment. Additional specific instructions on methods and sources are given if the

assignment is new, difficult, or unusual.

The analyst independently carries out routine assignments but refers unforeseen problems and

unusual situations to the supervisor for help or decisions.

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

Work products are reviewed for accuracy, responsiveness to policy maker's needs, appropriate

organization of written responses, methodology, sources, and conformance with agency policy.

Level 2-3 -- 275 Points

Assignments are made by the supervisor or a senior policy analyst, who provides general

direction as to objectives, priorities, and deadlines and gives assistance in unusual situations that

do not have clear precedents.

The analyst independently plans and carries out assignments in accordance with general

directions, agency policies, previous training, or accepted professional practices.

As appropriate, products are reviewed for accuracy, responsiveness, appropriate organization of

material, and conformance with agency policy.

Level 2-4 -- 450 Points

Assignments are made by the supervisor but may originate out of the liaison activities of the

analyst, who consults the supervisor prior to final acceptance of projects to be undertaken on

question of priority, scope, deadlines, and objectives.

The analyst independently plans and carries out projects, coordinating the work of other analysts

where appropriate. In some assignments, the analyst determines the approach to be taken and

the methodology to be used. In others, the analyst may modify the approach or methodology

based on suggestions offered by professional peers. The analyst informs the supervisor of

progress, potential controversy, or far-reaching implications.

As appropriate, completed work is reviewed by the supervisor for responsiveness and

conformance with agency policy. Completed work may also be subjected to substantive review

by professional peers.

Level 2-5 -- 650 Points

The supervisor typically provides administrative direction. Overall assignments are made in

terms of broadly defined functions of the employing organization. Specific assignments

frequently originate out of the liaison activities of the analyst, who independently negotiates the

scope and objectives of projects with the policy maker or staff, subject to general agency policies

and operating requirements.

The analyst assumes responsibility for planning, coordinating, and carrying out projects and

informs the supervisor of progress as appropriate.

The analyst at this level is often the most authoritative professional in a particular field within

the employing agency. The work is, therefore, generally considered to be technically accurate

and is often not subjected to detailed substantive review by the supervisor. Substantive review

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

by peers, where appropriate, is usually initiated by the analyst. Work products are examined,

however, for compliance with broad agency policy and responsiveness to the needs of the policy

maker.

FACTOR 3, GUIDELINES

This factor covers the nature of guidelines and the judgment needed to apply them. Positions

vary as to the availability, applicability, and specificity of the guidelines for performance and

assignments. Consequently, the constraints and judgmental demands placed upon policy

analysts also vary. For example, the existence of specific agency policies, procedures, and

instructions may limit the opportunity of some policy analysts to explore fully all facets of a

particular policy question or to limit the analyst's ability to recommend decisions or actions.

However, in the absence of established procedures or under broadly stated objectives, the policy

analyst may use considerable judgment in searching the literature; formulating policy study

criteria and methodology; defining, describing, and comparing study findings; and presenting

policy options.

Guidelines should not be confused with the knowledges described under Factor 1, Knowledge

Required by the Position. Guidelines either provide the context in which the work is to be

accomplished or impose certain constraints on the use of knowledges. For this factor, guidelines

refer to standard or established guidelines, precedents, methods, and procedures, including:

1. Agency manuals of instructions and operating procedures;

2. Professional literature;

3. Findings of previous studies;

4. Precedents dealing with areas such as formulation of study criteria,

methodology, comparison of data, and presentation of options;

5. Existing laws and regulations;

6. Executive Orders;

7. Standard textbooks;

8. Judicial decisions;

9. General Accounting Office decisions;

10. Administrative law decisions.

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

Level 3-1 -- 25 Points

Specific, detailed, guidelines covering all important aspects of the assignment are provided to the

analyst.

The analyst works in strict adherence to the guidelines. When guidelines are not available or are

not directly applicable, the supervisor specifies materials or persons to be consulted in the

preparation of the response as well as the form and type of response. Deviations must be

authorized by the supervisor or a senior analyst.

Level 3-2 -- 125 Points

Procedures for performing the work have been established and some specific guidelines, such as

style manuals and guides to writing brief analyses, organizational manuals, budgetary

documents, previous studies, and professional literature are available.

At this level, the analyst is in a stage of learning guidelines through exposure to a variety of

work situations that require some judgment in the selection of the methodology most appropriate

in responding to policy maker's needs. In many work situations, guidelines covering this

function are unwritten and traditional, and judgment is required in knowing when to seek

assistance from supervisors or senior analysts in the proper application of these guidelines.

Level 3-3 -- 275 Points

Procedures for performing the work are established and some specific guides are available.

Guides are not completely applicable to many work situations.

Typically, the analyst is thoroughly familiar with the guidelines that apply to routine work

situations and also in becoming adept at interpreting and applying guidelines and precedents in

non-routine situations without referring questions to others. The work assigned typically has

aspects of sensitivity that require more mature judgment regarding the implications of choices of

methodology.

Level 3-4 -- 450 Points

Specific policies and precedents are applicable but typically stated in general terms. The

guidelines of major concern at this level are broad policy statements regarding such matters as

objectivity, responsiveness, and timeliness.

The analyst often is required to deviate from traditional professional methods and to develop

new valuative criteria and methodology. The analyst's increasing visibility and ongoing

professional relationships with policy making bodies require judgment and ingenuity in

maintaining objective, professional standards.

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

Level 3-5 -- 650 Points

The guidelines of concern at this level are basic legislation and broad agency policy statements.

Frequently, there are no precedents to govern behavior in unusual and sensitive situations.

The analyst must exercise considerable judgment in interpreting and adapting existing

precedents and in developing new or improved approaches to analyze, develop, and present

authoritative information or analyses on controversial and nationally important subjects to

persons with conflicting views. The methods and procedures developed often serve as

precedents for other analysts.

FACTOR 4, COMPLEXITY

This factor covers the nature, number, variety, and intricacy of tasks, steps, processes, or

methods in the work performed; the difficulty in identifying what needs to be done; and the

difficulty and originality involved in performing the work.

To properly evaluate policy analysis work with respect to this factor, careful attention must be

given to ensure that all the complexities of the assignments are considered. It is often necessary

to look beyond specific assignments and examine the problems and questions that face the policy

analyst and what must be done to complete the work and solve the problems encountered.

In some assignments, it may appear that the analyst may be simply providing factual information

in response to specific requests. However, to provide reliable statistical and/or narrative data the

work may require the analyst to consult with a wide variety of sources and may compel the

analyst to make judgments as to the reliability of the sources; it may involve providing

information based on incomplete and conflicting data under the demands of rigid deadlines; and

it may require the analyst to analyze the data collected to evaluate its reliability, discern

interrelationships (e.g., between narrative and statistical findings), and provide a balanced

response that will be meaningful to the decision maker.

In other, more complex assignments, the analyst may need to consult with decision makers and

their immediate staffs to define the request in terms that will lead to a meaningful study of an

issue. In this setting the policy analyst must, in a sense, identify the issue; review the available

history on the subject or subjects and the current status of congressional and/or executive debate

or interest; identify and review the various perceptions of the parties involved; and then define

the issue in a context that reflects political and institutional constraints and is useful to the policy

maker. Once the issue has been described in terms that may be subjected to analysis, the analyst

must identify options, considering such factors as existing programs (if any) and their relevant

laws and regulations, previous or present executive or legislative proposals, studies and

recommendations made by other study groups, and previous congressional testimony. The

analyst must then study options, considering such variables as the impact of various options on

human and economic resources, the Federal workforce, the budget, and the environment. The

analyst may then assess the probable accuracy of impact estimates, rank the advantages and

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

disadvantages of each option, and present the completed study in a balanced, clear, meaningful

manner to the policy-maker.

Level 4-2 -- 75 Points

The work is comprised of related steps and methods, such as searching for and identifying

sources of information and selecting, compiling, and arranging data. The analyst searches for

and identifies facts, considers their relevance to the question, and arranges them in a logical and

clear manner. The main variables typically encountered are the nature and time constraints of

the assignment, which affect the type of sources consulted and the method of presentation. Little

originality is required in dealing with unusual, incomplete, or conflicting data, because unusual

situations are referred to higher level analysts or the supervisor. The analyst provides factual

information clearly in response to requests.

Level 4-3 -- 150 Points

Assignments are of greater variety than the previous level and often involve different but

conventional methods, techniques, or approaches and require the analyst to select an appropriate

course of action from a variety of possible alternatives. The analyst typically: (1) searches for

and identifies facts, analyzes them, and reports them in a logical and clear manner; (2) judges

authoritativeness of facts, analyzes them to discern interrelationships, and decides on

thoroughness of information to be used in the response; and (3) provides factual and analytical

information in a clear, balanced manner to higher level analysts for use in their reports, or

directly to policy makers and their staffs.

Illustration:

Identifies and analyzes data for the Congress on housing and housing finance

from a variety of sources, including information and reports from executive

branch agencies, the Federal National Mortgage Association, and the housing

finance industry to define and describe problems that confront legislative policy

makers on these issues. Analyzes relationships among existing legislation,

Federal programs, and the activities of the housing and housing finance industries

to clarify issues. Decides on thoroughness of information to be used in the

response given the nature of the inquiry. Provides factual and analytical

information in a clear, balanced, manner to higher level analysts for use in their

reports; or directly to the staffs of Members and committees of Congress. (See

also

1-6, illustration #1.)

Level 4-4 -- 225 Points

Assignments require the use of a variety of unrelated analytical methods and techniques of a

professional field or discipline. The analyst typically: (1) selects, organizes, and presents

information, identifies bias, analyzes interrelationships, and presents and evaluates policy

options; (2) deals with unusual circumstances (e.g., under rigid deadlines, often works with

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

voluminous and/or incomplete and conflicting information and data), chooses from among

various analytical methods depending on the type of data and the nature of the task, and

identifies and defines unclear issues; and (3) decides on form, content, scope, and depth of

response and interpret and presents balanced findings.

Illustrations:

1. Collects and analyzes economic and engineering data regarding transportation

energy issues from a variety of governmental, industrial, and academic sources.

Based on requests from congressional offices, selects, organizes, and presents

factual information and analyses regarding such issues, organizing the material to

properly identify biased information or data when it may affect the possible

conclusions that may be drawn from the report. Dealing with voluminous and

conflicting information, selects and analyzes material that will aid in defining

problems and more clearly present the wide variety of issues; decides on form,

content, scope, and depth of response; compares and presents policy options.

(See also

1-6, illustration #2.)

2. Selects, organizes, and presents information and writes analytic reports for the

Congress concerning international political and economic issues facing the United

States in Western Europe. Defines and studies issues, identifying and elaborating

on the often conflicting consequences of different policy goals. Identifies and

evaluates policy options available to the Congress, including possible legislative

initiatives. Discusses the pros and cons of policy options from various points of

view. Decides on form, content, scope, and depth of response depending on the

requirements of the requesting congressional office. Presents balanced and

objective reports orally or in writing to the Congress on subjects of legislative

concern within this issue area. (See also

1-7, illustration #1.)

3. Collects and analyzes information regarding the technical aspects of breeder

reactors, the issue of nuclear proliferation, the goals and results of space

exploration, Soviet space activities, and the relative costs and benefits of different

technologies in power production and in space exploration. Presents and

evaluates policy options, discussing technology, costs, and impacts on related

policies such as restricting nuclear proliferation. Deals with voluminous

information, particularly with regard to the space programs of the U.S. and the

U.S.S.R.; discerns and identifies bias; defines issues and evaluates options;

presents balanced and objective reports orally or in writing to Congress and

assists with the planning of hearings and examination of proposed legislation.

(See also

1-7, illustration #2.)

4. Collects and analyzes qualitative and quantitative data gathered by agency

regional offices, industry, and a variety of other public and private sector sources

to aid in the development of options to coordinate, expedite, or otherwise improve

the monitoring and enforcement of the Clean Air Act in the petroleum refining

industry. Conducts studies that affect the development of agency policy in the

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

energy field where data are inadequate or improvement in gathering data and

developing valuative criteria is necessary. Such studies include: (a) analysis of

the environmental impacts of various new energy sources such as synthetic liquid

fuels, oil shale, and coal gasification; (b) analysis of the energy and

environmental impact of the control of various gasoline additives; and (c) analysis

of the impact of environmental control regulations on energy consumption,

energy facility site location, and energy costs. Working with a wide variety of

information obtained from sources that often have conflicting goals, establishes

valuative criteria; examines data using quantitative and qualitative techniques,

modifying and adapting methodology to meet the needs of the specific study;

evaluates results and describes options and alternatives. (See also

1-7, illustration

#3.)

5. Collects and analyzes engineering and economic data from agency program

offices, other governmental sources, and private industry to aid in developing

energy policy alternatives (e.g., given the decision to establish a Strategic

Petroleum Reserve, when and how rapidly should oil be acquired, and how should

such oil be stored). Exercises substantial creativity in visualizing the impact of

energy policy alternatives (feasibility, effectiveness, necessity, practicability).

The analyst extends and applies quantitative techniques to solve selected

problems. Develops innovative approaches to problems such as the identification

and assessment of the underlying relationships between energy goals and

environmental requirements, price changes (or price controls), changing markets,

and changing technologies. As a member of an agency headquarters study group,

participates in the development of proposals, options, and recommendations for

use by top management in consideration of national energy policy alternatives.

(See also

1-7, illustration #4.)

6. Collects and analyzes qualitative and quantitative data concerned with the

establishment and operation of health care maintenance organizations. Assesses

the needs of policy makers based on written requests and personal contacts;

establishes the boundaries of studies through consultation; defines valuative

criteria based on expressed needs of the policy maker; applies criteria to examine

quantitative and qualitative data collected from Federal, State, industrial, and

other sources; formulates and articulates specific problems; analyzes and

evaluates alternatives; writes reports of findings and analyses of options regarding

financing and delivery of long-term health care for the elderly, disabled, and

chronically ill. (See also

1-8, illustration #3.)

Level 4-5 -- 325 Points

Assignments include a broad range of professional duties involving substantial depth and

breadth, numerous interrelationships, complex variables, and new theories and methodologies.

The analyst probes and analyzes information collected from a wide variety of sources to

determine the nature and scope of the problem, interprets this material, and develops policy

options. The work involves substantial depth, breadth, and intensity of effort, involving

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

numerous interrelationships. The analytic work may involve the effort of a single analyst, or it

may require the analyst to coordinate the efforts of several subject matter specialists.

Determination of approaches and planning of projects require the selection of current

methodologies, theories, and research in the appropriate professional subject field or fields. The

work requires the analyst to review unresolved issues; synthesize and simplify complicated

information; define, describe, and compare policy alternatives; assess political and institutional

constraints; summarize study results; and present findings to policy makers to aid them in

examining complex policy proposals.

Illustrations:

1. Plans and conducts policy studies on the administration of elections, on voter

participation, and on initiative and referendum. Studies are characterized by

numerous variables and complex interrelationships, and require the use of

sophisticated statistical methodologies. Problems posed by congressional

involvement in the question of elections and voter participation must be analyzed

so that the nature of the problem is clearly understood and defined and can be

subjected to proper analysis. Assignments include the evaluation and

development of policy alternatives related to elections and voter participation as

wall as initiative and referendum questions. The complexity of statistical

analyses may require that the analyst coordinate the efforts of several participants

in the assignment. The work requires the analyst to review, summarize, and

present findings to aid policy makers in examining complex policy proposals.

See also

1-8, illustration #1.)

2. Assignments include a broad range of projects involving complex variables and

numerous interrelationships in the field of family and child welfare. Voluminous

qualitative and quantitative data must be analyzed to determine the nature and

scope of the problem, to discern interrelationships between socio-economic

conditions and family and child welfare needs, and to develop policy options

available to Congress. The work may require coordination of analytical efforts of

other analysts who are expert in the fields of economics and nutrition as well as

those with comprehensive knowledge of social service programs. Work products

may include written reports and memoranda, oral briefings, seminars, workshops,

and personal assistance in defining problems and planning studies that will aid in

developing and examining policy proposals. (See also

1-8, illustration #2.)

3. Utilizing professional expertise in the fields of ocean engineering and the

economics of seabed mining, develops, personally conducts, and/or coordinates

studies of issues related to ocean affairs, marine transportation, energy, water

resources, telecommunications, and other scientific and technological matters

regarding oceans policy. In consultation with policy makers, identifies and

defines specific issues, develops sources of information, personally develops or

coordinates the development of data, performs analysis using a variety of

quantitative and qualitative techniques and methods, synthesizes results, and

prepares comprehensive reports for use by decision makers in formulating oceans

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

policy, developing regulations, and proposing changes in legislation. (See also

1-8, illustration #4.)

4. As a principal analyst on disability policy, develops a wide variety of policy

analysis documents to aid decision makers in proposing legislation and making

changes in existing programs. Identifies areas of major concern; reviews current

projects; searches pertinent literature, evaluations, and studies which often

contain voluminous and conflicting data; discusses issues with other Federal and

non-Federal experts and program officials; considers legislative developments

and assesses programmatic trends. Defines and describes issues; develops

options; devises and predicts the impact of various alternatives. Summarizes and

presents findings to policy makers. (See also

1-8, illustration #5.)

5. Utilizing professional expertise in the law of several foreign countries, conducts

legal research concerning a wide variety of issues (e.g., taxation, anti-trust law,

immigration law and practices, civil rights, veterans benefits, and property rights).

Conducts extensive review of a wide variety of statutes, codes, regulations, and

other documents; resolves problems of incomplete or conflicting information, and

renders findings in the form of written reports and/or oral briefings for use by

decision makers in formulating policy, developing legislation, or writing

regulatory requirements. (See also

1-8, illustration #6.)

6. Plans and conducts studies of the legal issues involved in developing proposed

unusually complex or poorly defined national and international legal problems;

discusses boundaries of studies with appropriate authorities; searches pertinent

literature; develops and defines options; writes reports outlining possible

alternatives and recommends possible courses of action to resolve critical

problems. Presents written and oral reports to Copyright Office officials, the

Congress, various executive branch agencies, and special copyright interest

groups outside the Federal Government. (See also

1-8, illustration #7.)

Level 4-6 -- 450 Points

The work calls for application of the broad functions and processes of a profession to public

policy issues in areas of national interest. The issues are often characterized by unusual demands

due to extraordinary public interest considerations. The analyst evaluates and interprets policies

and projects, develops a range of alternatives for the solution of policy problems, and

coordinates the work of other professionals in a variety of disciplines to accomplish several

phases of complex projects concurrently or sequentially. Problems are often undefined at the

outset of the assignment. Variables to be considered often cross disciplinary lines. New

hypotheses and concepts may have to be generated and applied to resolve critical and intractable

problems. The work aids policy makers in interpreting and analyzing policy problems of

national or international significance. The analyst organizes and presents policy options, and

often is required to anticipate the direction of policy questions.

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

Illustrations:

1. Conceives, plans, and conducts studies (often multidisciplinary and involving

several analysts, e.g., biologists, engineers, economists, lawyers, international

relations experts) of problems and policy proposals in the area of wildlife and

fisheries as biological resources. Problems often involve numerous complex

interrelationships and competing and powerful interests, thus requiring definition

of the problems and development of unique methodological approaches to their

solution. The analyst provides on-the-spot authoritative information to Members

of Congress during hearings and markup sessions. Helps plan hearings and

develops legislative responses to problems of national or international scope.

Anticipates the need for policy studies and advises Members and relevant

committees of the need for study of long-range problems. (See also

1-9,

illustration #1.)

2. Conceives, plans, and conducts studies and provides considerable personal

assistance to Members and committees of Congress regarding procedures, rules,

and organization of the House and Senate. Serves as an authoritative source of

information and analysis to Members and committees, including select

committees studying congressional organization and committee jurisdiction.

Provides expert advice in planning and conducting congressional hearings,

suggests witnesses and questions to be asked, aids in the markup of bills, and

prepares papers that analyze options and alternatives. (See also

1-9, illustration

#2.)

3. Conceives, plans, conducts, and coordinates broad policy studies of national

significance, for example, a study of the national problems involved in the

affordability of housing in an inflationary environment, including in-depth

research into such factors as housing prices, consumer purchasing power, regional

variations in prices, the various components of housing costs, demographic

considerations, consumer preferences, cost of capital to homeowners,

measurement of actual home ownership costs, the current Federal tax structure,

the inflationary environment, and housing as a source of equity accumulation;

develops policy options regarding matters such as the probable results of changes

in the current tax structure or credit structure on home buyer patterns and on the

housing industry. Plans, conducts, and/or coordinates the collection of data and

information from a wide variety of sources (e.g., from other Federal, State, and

local agencies, industry, universities, and foundations). Assesses data, develops

and writes study findings and identifies options open for consideration. Findings

are considered authoritative in the field and provide decision makers at the

primary policy level of the executive branch with options that are considered in

examining and developing national housing policy. (See also

1-9, illustration #3.)

4. Plans, conducts, and coordinates extensive studies requiring legal, economic, and

technical analyses relating to competition in the energy industry. Work involves

the formulation of appropriate strategies, usually without existing guides or

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

precedents, to obtain appropriate assumptions as a basis for the evaluation of

study results. Personally conduct research as well as coordinates the efforts of

other analysts in examining such subjects as horizontal diversification across

energy supply industries; vertical integration; possible strategies for dealing with

international cartels; the effect of joint ventures on competition; the impact of

Government regulations and subsidies on competition; and the structure, conduct,

and performance of the oil, gas, coal, nuclear, solar, and other energy industries.

Exercises primary responsibility for developing goals, analytical framework, and

appropriate research methodology to be used in each aspect of the study, and,

where work is performed by others, for reviewing and consolidating final work

products. Final results are presented to decision makers to serve as a definitive

basis for making major regulatory changes and recommending significant

legislative proposals. (See also

1-9, illustration #4.)

5. Conceives, plans, and conducts multidisciplinary policy studies dealing with

national issues related to coastal zone management (e.g., the onshore impacts of

offshore oil and gas discovery and recovery, including such factors as siting

analysis; economic analysis; demographic, environmental, and fiscal impacts; and

specific effects on coastal communities). Plans and coordinates nationwide data

collection and engineering research as they relate to the coastal zone. Critically

reviews and evaluates or personally performs analysis of significant issues where

few precedents are available for defining issues. Work products have a

significant influence in proposing major changes in regulation and legislation

related to the area of the analyst's expertise. (See also

1-9, illustration #5.)

6. Plans, conducts, and coordinates extensive studies to analyze and evaluate U.S.

and U.S.S.R. arms control proposals, including the assessment of the implications

of alternative arms limitation proposals on future systems and capabilities of the

U.S. strategic forces and on the present and future balance of power, and the

analysis and evaluation of long-range theater nuclear forces and programs and

their ability to perform their strategic missions in a Strategic Arms Limitation

Treaty (SALT) environment. Identifies and defines issues and problems in major

program areas where useful precedents do not exist and where there are divergent

and conflicting views of such issues; develops and establishes new concepts and

approaches; utilizes a wide variety of qualitative and quantitative techniques to

examine information and data that may contain critical gaps or are of limited

reliability; conducts extensive coordination with other organizations and agencies

to verify findings; and prepares final reports. Work products are presented to

agency decision makers and serve as a definitive basis for making significant

policy proposals. (See also

1-9, illustration #6.)

7. Plans, conducts, and coordinates multidisciplinary studies to analyze and evaluate

the financial condition of the Social Security system. Identifies the underlying

causes of the problems from among a wide variety of interactive elements --

programmatic, economic, and demographic in nature. Defines the problem in a

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

manner that permits both the short-range, immediate problems to be addressed,

while also looking far into the future (the year 2000 and beyond) to ensure

financial adequacy in a long-range actuarial sense. Frames options in an area

where differences of opinion may be sharp, political consequences great, and

public understanding of the issue may be very limited. Uses a wide variety of

other specialists (economists, demographers, actuaries, program specialists), to

provide the basic data for his or her own analysis, applying judgment in the

evaluation and combination of such knowledge into a single product. Work

products are often used directly in the decision making processes of the Congress,

are completed for committee staff leaders or Members, are frequently prepared

under short deadlines, and usually require on-the-spot supplementary advice to

congressional clients. (See also

1-9, illustration #7.)

8. Conceives, plans, and conducts studies and provides personal assistance to

Members and committees of Congress regarding the various legal and other

public policy related issues associated with congressional and Presidential

elections. Serves as an authoritative source of information and analysis to

Members and committees concerned with the statutory or constitutional alteration

of the laws and procedures currently utilized in such elections. Provides expert

advice at various stages of the legislative process, including suggesting

organizational proceedings, witnesses to be called, and questions to be posed for

congressional hearings. Assists in the preparation of reports and the conduct of

markup sessions, providing advice, analysis, and like services during floor

debates and conferences. (See also

1-9, illustration #8.)

9. Conceives, plans, conducts, studies and provides personal assistance to Members

and committees of Congress concerning legislative proposals to modify the

Federal tax structure and to utilize taxing mechanisms in connection with

resolution of a wide variety of other policy issues. This may involve

coordination of efforts in other fields to address complex policy issues. Provides

expert advice, analysis, and other assistance to the principal congressional

participants at various stages of the legislative process, including hearings,

markup sessions, reports, floor debates and conferences. (See also

1-9, illustration

#9.)

FACTOR 5, SCOPE AND EFFECT

This factor covers the relationship between the nature of the work, i.e., the purpose, breadth, and

depth of the assignment, and the effect of work products or service both within and outside the

organization. Effect measures such things as whether or not the work output facilitates the work

of others, provides timely services of a personal nature, or impacts on the adequacy of research

conclusions. The concept of effect alone does not provide sufficient information to properly

understand and evaluate the impact of the position. The scope of the work completes the picture,

allowing consistent evaluations. Only the effect of properly performed work is to be considered.

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

Level 5-1 -- 25 Points

The work involves performance of specific, routine functions that include separate tasks or

procedures, such as the gathering of information or statistics as part of a larger policy analysis

project.

The work performed is required to facilitate the work of other analysts or staff and its impact is

limited to its immediate contribution to a larger project or the timely provision of limited service,

e.g., the provision of specifically requested information to aid senior policy analysis staff within

the organization.

Level 5-2 -- 75 Points

The work includes performing analyses involving projects of limited scope and depth, or

complete segments of an assignment or project of broader scope.

The completed work generally contributes to other policy analysis projects and affects the

reliability, accuracy, or acceptability of such analyses.

Level 5-3 -- 150 Points

The work involves the presentation of requested information in a conventional format or the

presentation of limited analyses of public policy questions.

The information provided to and the analyses performed for various clientele serve to define or

clarify public policy issues and to identify alternative approaches to their solution or

management.

Illustrations:

1. The purpose of the work is to present information and brief analytical reports to

congressional offices regarding legislative proposals and existing Federal

programs and their effect on the housing and housing finance industries. The

work aids in defining and clarifying public policy issues and provides the

analytical basis for alternative legislative policy proposals. (See also

1-6,

illustration #1)

2. The purpose of the work is to respond to requests from congressional offices to

identify, analyze, and present technical and economic information and brief

analytical reports on transportation energy issues. The work defines issues and

provides the basis for alternative legislative proposals. (See also

1-6, illustration

#2.)

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

Level 5-4 -- 225 Points

The purpose of the work is to provide authoritative information on, and analysis of, public policy

questions or legislative proposals, and to summarize alternatives for consideration by policy

makers.

The work product or service (e.g., analytical reports, written and oral correspondence) aids the

policy making activity of the Congress or a Federal agency by defining the impacts of the

various alternatives to a given problem or proposal.

Illustrations:

1. The purpose of the work is to provide background papers for use in hearings, or to

develop material that is used to brief Members of Congress. The analyses and

information developed provide authoritative information and evaluations of

problems and issues facing the U.S. in Western Europe; offers comparisons and

evaluations of alternative solutions to policy problems; and clarifies the issues

and the choices facing policy makers. (See also

1-7, illustration #1.)

2. The purpose of the work is to provide authoritative information on technology in

such subject matter areas as nuclear breeder reactors and space exploration, and

analysis of policy issues in these areas. The work identifies, summarizes, and

compares policy options. The work affects legislative policy making by defining

issues, planning studies of problems, and evaluating policy options. (See also

1-7, illustration #2.)

3. The purpose of the work is to provide legal and technical analyses of a variety of

unusual conditions, problems, and questions related to the implementation of the

Clean Air Act. Reports produced provide agency decision makers with a variety

of alternatives in implementing basic legislation. (See also

1-7, illustration #3.)

4. The purpose of the work is to investigate and assess the scientific and engineering

aspects of developing energy alternatives. The technical reports, correspondence,

and oral briefings provided by the analyst aid in defining the impact of various

agency alternatives to existing policy, and aid in providing technically sound

alternatives to such policy. (See also

1-7, illustration #4.)

5. The purpose of the work is to provide authoritative reports through the synthesis

of a wide variety of information from Federal, State, and private sector sources

regarding the development and improvement of health maintenance organizations.

Written and oral reports produced by the analyst serve to establish departmental

policy and regulatory guidance and are used to develop appropriate portions of

proposed legislation in the subject area. (See also

1-8, illustration #3.)

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

Level 5-5 -- 325 Points

The purpose of the work is to provide authoritative information and analysis, either written or

oral, that identifies, interprets, and develops alternatives and options to complex questions of

public policy.

The work makes a significant contribution to the planning and evaluation of policies and projects

of executive and/or legislative concern through the application of new and relevant theories and

the synthesis and analysis of a range of approaches to public policy issues.

Illustrations:

1. The purpose of the work is to provide authoritative information and analyses to

Members and committees of Congress that examine, compare, and develop policy

options available to the Congress in the subject areas of elections, voter

participation, initiative and referendum. The work provides new approaches to

understanding the identified problem and contributes to the planning of legislative

solutions. (See also

1-8, illustration #1.)

2. The purpose of the work is to provide authoritative information and analyses that

examine Federal programs relating to child and family welfare and that develop,

interpret, and compare legislative policy proposals to deal with problems in the

field. The work provides legislative decision makers with authoritative analyses

of a variety of policy options. (See also

1-8, illustration #2.)

3. The purpose of the work is to investigate and analyze a broad variety of

engineering and technological problems as they relate to ocean engineering and

seabed mining. The analyses performed and the authoritative reports produced

offer agency decision makers a wide variety of options and alternatives in their

development of agency policy, in proposing new or revised legislation, and in

conducting international negotiations. (See also

1-8, illustration #4.)

4. The purpose of the work is to define issues and describe alternatives to critical

policy problems associated with disabled individuals in the broadest sense,

including income maintenance, rehabilitation, employment, independent living,

housing, transportation, civil rights, and other needs related to enabling disabled

persons to function in the family, community, and society. The work produced by

the analyst provides agency decision makers with a wide variety of approaches in

establishing programs and/or proposing legislation to meet the needs of disabled

persons. (See also

1-8, illustration #5.)

5. The purpose of the work is to research and define various aspects of the laws of

foreign nations; and to identify, interpret, and develop material that can be

understood and utilized by U.S. policy makers to formulate domestic legislation,

develop regulatory requirements, or promulgate U.S. policy. (See also

1-8,

illustration #6.)

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

6. The purpose of the work is to provide authoritative written reports and

memoranda as well as oral briefings on the wide variety of issues associated with

development of copyright policy and offer alternatives in the development of new

or revised legislation and in the development of international copyright

agreements. (See also

1-8, illustration #7.)

Level 5-6 -- 450 Points

The purpose of the work is to plan and conduct analyses of vital public policies that are of

national or international interest, scope, and impact; to generate and apply new hypotheses and

concepts in the evaluation of complex public policy questions; to anticipate the nature and

direction of public policy questions; and to organize and present options for the use of

appropriate policy making bodies.

The work performed by the analyst provides the policy makers with authoritative information

and analyses and provides a basis for decisions affecting major current and long-range policies

and proposals that affect the activities and operations of the executive or legislative branches of

the Federal Government.

Illustrations:

1. The purpose of the work is to initiate, plan, and conduct policy studies of

important national and international problems related to fisheries and wildlife, to

define issues, to develop and analyze alternative legislative responses, and to

inform the Congress of impending imminent and long-range problems and

possible solutions. The work provides an authoritative basis for major legislation

critically affecting important industries and interest groups that frequently have

divergent interests and expectations. (See also

1-9, illustration #1.)

2. The purpose of the work is to plan and conduct studies of congressional rules,

procedures, and organization; to aid in hearings and markup sessions, and to

develop and present policy and procedural alternatives to Members and

committees of Congress. The work directly serves Members and committees in

their conduct of internal business as well as in their overall legislative and

oversight functions. (See also

1-9, illustration #2.)

3. The purpose of the work is to plan, conduct, and coordinate broad, comprehensive

policy studies of national significance such as the use and value of national public

works programs. Defines issues in consultation with decision makers, designs

methods to be used in gathering appropriate data, develops concepts to effectively

review and evaluate statistical data and narrative information. Organizes and

presents study results in the form of detailed written reports containing a wide

variety of findings, options, and alternatives to decision makers at the primary

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

policy level of the executive branch for their use in proposing long-range national

policies and goals. (See also

1-9, illustration #3.)

4. The purpose of the work is to plan, conduct, and direct extremely broad,

long-term, and far-reaching studies such as multi year, multidisciplinary studies

dealing with the legal, economic, organizational structure, and other aspects of

competition in the energy industry. Examines the extremely broad and varied

issues, designs and develops information gathering techniques and methods, and

reviews and organizes overall study results. Options and alternatives developed

serve as an authoritative, comprehensive foundation for regulatory action and

legislative proposals. (See also

1-9, illustration #4.)

5. The purpose of the work is to plan, conduct, and coordinate long-range scientific

and engineering studies relevant to the analysis of the various national issues

involved in the management of the U.S. coastal zone. In consultation with

decision-makers, identifies and defines issues, personally performs and/or

coordinates efforts of others in collecting appropriate data, reviews and analyzes

quantitative and qualitative information, and organizes and presents options to

policy makers of the agency. The work performed provides decision makers with

detailed, authoritative analyses of the wide variety of issues, options, and

alternatives to be considered in proposing legislation, regulations, or other

initiatives affecting coastal zone management. (See also

1-9, illustration #5.)

6. The purpose of the work is to plan, conduct, and coordinate comprehensive policy

studies involving the assessment of alternative arms limitation proposals. The

analyses and options developed by the analyst provide agency policy makers with

authoritative technical and scientific information on which to base decisions

affecting arms limitations negotiations. (See also

1-9, illustration #6.)

7. The purpose of the work is to plan, conduct, and coordinate comprehensive

analyses of the Social Security system. The analyses and options developed by

the analyst provide congressional Members and committee staff with authoritative

information on which to base decisions acting millions of Social Security

recipients and taxpayers -- both now and for decades into the future. (See also

1-9, illustration #7.)

8. The purpose of the work is to plan and conduct studies of various policy issues

associated with congressional or Presidential elections; to provide advice,

analysis and other assistance to Members and committees of Congress during

various stages in the legislative process, including introduction, hearings, mark-up

sessions, reports, floor debates and conferences, during which major statutory or

constitutional modification of the Federal election process is under consideration.

The work provides an authoritative and comprehensive foundation for

congressional consideration of public policy issues related to the election of

Members of Congress and the President of the United States. (See also

1-9,

illustration #8.)

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

9. The purpose of the work is to plan and conduct studies of various public policy

aspects of Federal tax law in order to provide advice, analysis, and other

assistance to Members and committees of Congress during various stages in the

legislative process, including introduction, hearings, markup sessions, reports,

floor debates, and conferences, during which major alterations in the federal tax

structure or major public policy issues with tax aspects are under consideration.

The work provides an authoritative and comprehensive foundation for

congressional consideration of public policy issues associated with the Federal tax

structure and of use of the taxing power as an element in the solution of other

complex public policy issues. (See also

1-9, illustration #9.)

FACTOR 6, PERSONAL CONTACTS

This factor includes face-to-face contacts and telephone dialogue with persons not in the normal

supervisory chain that are essential for the successful performance of the work of the analyst.

(Note: Personal contacts with supervisors are covered under Factor 2, Supervisory Controls.)

Levels described under this factor are based on what is required to make the initial contact, the

difficulty in communicating with those contacted, and the setting in which the contact takes

place (e.g., the degree to which the analyst and those contacted recognize their relative roles and

authorities).

Above the lowest level, points should be credited for this factor only for contacts that are

essential for successful performance of the work and that have a demonstrable impact on the

difficulty and responsibility of the work performed.

The relationship of Factors 6 and 7 presumes that the same contacts will be evaluated for both

factors. Therefore, use the personal contacts that serve as the basis for the level selected for

Factor 7 as the basis for selecting a level for Factor 6.

Level 6-1 -- 10 Points

Personal contacts arc primarily with other analysts and support staff within the immediate office,

and in related or support units. Contacts may also be made with staff of offices requesting

information and assistance in highly structured situations, e.g., when transmitting simple factual

information. Contacts with staff of offices that may lead to commitments regarding scope of

work or commit employing office to a deadline are left to the supervisor.

Level 6-2 -- 25 Points

Personal contacts are with analysts and specialists within the agency, with professional staffs of

other agencies involved in policy analysis work, and with requesting policy making staff

officials. Persons contacted are frequently professionals engaged in activities related to the

analyst's professional specialization. Contacts with staff of offices outside of the employing

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

agency may be moderately unstructured in that the role and authority of participants initially may

be unclear.

Level 6-3 -- 60 Points

Personal contacts are with analysts and specialists within the agency, with professionals and

program directors in executive, legislative, or judicial branch agencies, with professionals in

universities and private research organizations, with members of trade associations and public

interest groups, with State and local government officials, or with staffs of Members of Congress

and committees. Contacts may be initiated by the analyst, the person requesting information

and/or assistance, or another party, and frequently involve unstructured face-to-face meetings.

Some contacts with specific individuals are frequent and recurring since the analyst frequently

functions in a liaison capacity with policy making staff officials.

Level 6-4 -- 110 Points

Personal contacts are with officials at the policy making level and their senior staff, e.g.,

executive level appointees and their senior staff, Members of Congress and their senior staff,

with senior staff of congressional committees, with high-level policy analysis and program staff

in other agencies, with high ranking state and local officials, and with individuals of recognized

professional standing in academic, research, professional, and national and international public

interest and trade organizations. Contacts are often characterized by their unstructured settings,

by the presence and participation of policy making support staff, by the flexibility of approach

and breadth of subject matter, and by the need to establish during the contact the role and

authority of the participants. Contacts with specific policy makers and senior staff are usually

frequent and recurring since the analyst generally works in a liaison capacity. Contacts may be

initiated by other parties as well as by the policy analyst.

FACTOR 7, PURPOSE OF CONTACTS

In General Schedule occupations, the purpose of personal contacts ranges from factual

exchanges of information to situations involving significant or controversial issues and differing

viewpoints, goals, or objectives. The personal contacts that serve as the basis for the level

selected for this factor must be the same as the contacts that are the basis for the level selected

for Factor 6.

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

Level 7-1 -- 20 Points

The purpose of the contact is to obtain, exchange, or relate noncontroversial factual information.

Level 7-2 -- 50 Points

The purpose of the contact is to obtain or clarify information; or, in furtherance of the policy

analysis/policy making process, to plan and coordinate work efforts to provide factual and

analytical information on public policy questions. Individuals contacted are generally

cooperative at this level.

Level 7-3 -- 120 Points

The purpose of the contact is to summarize, interpret, and relate information on difficult or

misunderstood public policy questions; to present alternative approaches to policy questions to

groups and individuals with differing viewpoints and goals; to inform policy makers of the

analytical capabilities of the policy analyst's organization as they relate to various projects and

issues; and to establish working relationships among policy analysis staffs in other agencies and

other branches of the Federal Government. The establishment of contacts is frequently an

important aspect of the work at this level and requires tact and negotiating skills.

Level 7-4 -- 220 Points

The purpose of contacts at this level is to present information and balanced analyses of

recognized professional competence on complex public policy questions to policy makers; to

participate in conferences, meetings, or presentations involving problems or public policy issues

that have great sensitivity of national or international consequence or importance; to establish

and maintain liaison with executive branch appointees and/or Members of Congress and their

respective staffs on issues and legislation of mutual interest and concern; to negotiate with policy

makers on the type, nature, and timing of policy analysis assistance; to correlate professional

knowledge and expertise with public policy questions; to identify emerging issues within their

area of competence for clients; to coordinate major research and analytical efforts for the

solution of important public policy questions; and to confer with and advise policy makers and

their staffs on legislative approaches to national issues (including assistance during

congressional hearings).

FACTOR 8, PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The "Physical Demands" factor covers the requirements and physical demands placed on the

analyst by the work assignment. This includes physical characteristics and abilities (e. g.,

specific agility and dexterity requirements) and the physical exertion involved in the work (e.g.,

climbing, lifting, pushing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, or reaching). To

some extent the frequency or intensity of physical exertion must also be considered, e.g., a

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Policy Analysis Grade-Evaluation Guide TS-52 March 1981

position requiring prolonged standing involves more physical exertion than a job requiring

intermittent standing.

Level 8-1 -- 5 Points

The work is sedentary; it is usually accomplished while the analyst is comfortably seated at a

desk or table. There is some walking and some travel to meetings and conferences away from

the workaday. Items carried typically include light objects such as briefcases, notebooks, work

papers, and data printouts. Lifting of moderately heavy objects generally is not required. No

special physical effort or ability is required to perform the work.

FACTOR 9, WORK ENVIRONMENT

The "Work Environment" factor considers the risks and discomforts in the analyst's physical

surroundings or the nature of the work assigned and the safety regulations required. Although

the use of safety precautions can practically eliminate a certain danger or discomfort, such

situations typically place additional demands upon the employee in carrying out safety

regulations and techniques.

Level 9-1 -- 5 Points

The work environment includes the array of risks and discomforts normally found in offices,

conference rooms, libraries, and similar settings in public buildings. Common sense safety

precautions are observed in using stairways and elevators, crossing streets, riding in public

conveyances and commercial vehicles, and in operating office equipment. When driving an

automobile the analyst obeys traffic laws and rules of the road. Work is usually performed in an

adequately lighted, heated, and ventilated office setting. There may be intermittent exposure to

varied weather conditions when traveling to and from the worksite that occasionally necessitates

the use of an umbrella, raincoat, gloves, hat, and the like.

U.S. Office of Personnel Management 39