Demographics

Understanding the age of the federal workforce is essential for long-term planning and workforce development. Age partially influences when employees may become eligible for retirement, as well as the types of support and training they may need throughout their careers. A workforce with a higher average age may signal upcoming waves of retirements, while a younger workforce may reflect recent hiring surges or shifts in recruitment strategies.

By examining the age profile of federal employees, agencies can better anticipate future staffing needs and ensure they are building a workforce that is balanced, sustainable, and prepared to meet evolving mission demands.

Employees by age

Employees become eligible to retire based on a combination of age and years of service, as defined by federal retirement systems such as the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).

Understanding how many employees are eligible to retire and the timing of potential retirements helps agencies anticipate workforce changes and make informed succession plans.

Employees by retirement eligibility

Veterans make up a significant portion of the federal workforce, continuing their commitment to public service in civilian roles across government. Through their military experience, they bring valuable skills, discipline, and leadership that strengthen agencies and support mission success.

From technical specialists to senior leaders, veterans contribute across a wide range of occupations and play a vital role in shaping the effectiveness and resilience of the federal government.

The federal workforce includes employees with a wide range of educational backgrounds, from high school diplomas and associate’s degrees to bachelor’s and graduate degrees. While some roles do require specialized education, many positions are open to individuals with practical experience and foundational qualifications.

This variety reflects the broad scope of federal work, which spans everything from administrative support to scientific research. Understanding this mix helps agencies recruit talent that matches the needs of their missions.

Employees by education level