Civil service grades explained
A clear guide to the Civil Service grade structure: what each grade involves, how to apply, typical word counts for behaviour statements, and how to progress.
The grade structure
The Civil Service uses a graded structure from Administrative Assistant (AA) to Senior Civil Service (SCS). Each grade has different responsibilities, expectations, and typical salary ranges.
Administrative Officer
Entry-level roles focused on administrative support, data entry, and customer service. Typical word count: 250 words per behaviour.
EOExecutive Officer
Roles with more independence, including case work, team support, and project coordination. Typical word count: 250 words per behaviour.
HEOHigher Executive Officer
Mid-level roles with management responsibility, policy input, and stakeholder engagement. Typical word count: 250 words per behaviour.
SEOSenior Executive Officer
Senior operational roles with team leadership, project management, and strategic input. Typical word count: 250–500 words per behaviour.
Grade 7Grade 7
Management roles with significant responsibility for programmes, policy, or operations. Typical word count: 500 words per behaviour.
Grade 6Grade 6
Director-level roles with strategic oversight, large team management, and cross-organisational influence. Typical word count: 500–750 words per behaviour.
SCSSenior Civil Service
The most senior roles, including permanent secretaries and directors general. Typical word count: 750 words per behaviour.
How the grades fit together
The Civil Service grade structure is hierarchical, but progression is not always linear. Many civil servants spend several years at each grade, and some move sideways to gain breadth of experience before moving up.
When applying for a role, always check the job advert for the specific grade and any delegated grade variations. Some departments use slightly different titles or banding.