Failure to successfully complete any aspect of this training is grounds for separation. Besides technology training, IM specialists are also provided opportunities to take additional developmental courses during assignments. These include, but are not limited to, management and leadership courses at the National Foreign Affairs Training Center, and schools and universities in the Washington, DC area. Initial salaries are determined in accordance with paragraph 1 or 2 below, whichever provides the greater benefit. To determine the specific grade, the candidate's education and specialized experience must be in excess of that which is required to qualify for the appointment grade as described in the Addendum, Section III, Education and Specialized Experience Requirements.
Salaries are determined at the time offers of employment are made.
Entry-level salary for current or former Federal civilian employees will be set at the rate, within the Foreign Service grade to which they are appointed, that is nearest to the base salary rate of their previous salary, provided the work performed in the previous position is relevant to information management activities. Further promotions are competitive and based on merit. Promotions to the next higher grade equal approximately six percent of base salary. Those in steps 10-13 receive a step increase every 2 years. Meritorious step increases are occasionally awarded to outstanding performers.