Career paths in the ESRC field are divided into 4 levels of progression, ranging from Entry Level/Intern to Senior Executive Service (SES) staff. Each level is associated with specific skill and knowledge requirements, and advancement at each of these levels depends on a number of factors, including additional training, further education, choice of assignments, and other factors. General definitions and guidelines are given below; more specific requirements and suggestions are found in the Planning Your Career section.
This level is the primary method of entry into this Career Program. It includes Interns and Leadership Development Careerists, in positions typically ranging from grades GS-5 to GS-9. An individual at this level is selected mainly for his or her growth potential based on achievement of a higher education degree (typically a Bachelor's). The primary purpose of training at this level is to gain knowledge of the Army; develop basic leadership, communications and computer skills; engage in rotational assignments; complete short courses; acquire knowledge of the functional area represented by their career program; and, if necessary, complete any courses required for certification in their particular discipline/field.
Career Ladders
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Career ladders are presented in the following charts are the recommended career paths for progression to key positions in the major functional areas, programs and project management, and one for the environmental subtrack. These career ladders are NOT considered the only way to reach a key position, but they are the most likely way. These ladders also provide for crossing functions; however, it should be noted that it is difficult in practice above the GS-12 level.
These career ladders demonstrate possible cross-functional moves based upon similarities in missions (i.e., certain functional areas inter-relate in achieving the mission). Lateral assignments for cross-training within a given function are possible as shown below. Cross-training in more than one subspecialty is highly recommended to rise to key positions, and is highly desirable in those functions.
The general career ladder for successfully achieving key engineering and scientific positions are presented in the step chart below. More specific routes are highlighted in the four detailed program charts: (1) Construction, Engineering, Operations, Civil Works Planning and Programs & Project Management function, (2) Public Works, (3) Research & Development, and (4) the Environmental Subtrack.
Intake sources and levels for research careerists are different from those of non-research careerists. The intake level is normally at the GS-09 and above, as the attainment of a Master’s Degree in a technical field demonstrates the capability to perform independent research (Master’s thesis). Very little hiring of research careerists occurs at the Bachelor’s level because of the concern about the demonstrated ability to perform independent research. The exception to this is the Student Career Experience Program (SCEP), which allows for the option to appoint upon successful completion of a degree program, which in essence allows the activity to observe the capability to perform independent research. Intake sources for research careerists should include paid advertising in professional journals, professional websites, and through professional societies. The passive mode of relying on applicants to find career opportunities through systems is not viewed as productive in the research community. Direct-hire authority for research scientists and engineers is the approach desired by R&D leaders to compete for the best and brightest post-Master’s researchers. USACE recruiting at schools includes top graduate schools for science and engineering programs, with strong research departments. General Career Ladder For Key ESRC Positions 
The following Career Ladders are representative of typical career paths in the ESRC field.
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Typical Progression to Key Positions
Career Ladder for Construction, Engineering, Operations, Civil Works Planning, & Programs and Project Management
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