FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SERVICE — The total of all
periods of military and civilian Federal service considered
for retirement, reduction in force, and leave purposes.
FEDERAL MERIT SYSTEM — A complete system of personnel
selection and management based on an integrated set of
personnel policies, procedures and practices designed
to accomplish three basic objectives: (1) to recruit a
competent work force; (2) to insure a stable work force;
and (3) to provide equal opportunity for employment.
FEDERAL WAGE SYSTEM — The job-grading and pay system
that applies to most trade, craft, and labor positions
in agencies subject to 5 U.S.C. 5342. Under this system,
pay is adjusted according to the rates paid by private
industry for similar jobs in the same area. Included are
Federal employees in recognized trade or craft or skilled
mechanical crafts, occupations, and other persons, including
foremen or supervisors, in positions where trade, craft,
or labor experience or knowledge is the main requirement.
FERS RETIREE — A person retired under the Federal
Employees Retirement System.
FROZEN SERVICE — is the total number of years and
months of civilian and military service that is creditable
in a CSRS component of a FERS employee.
FULL-TIME WORK SCHEDULE — A full-time work schedule
requires most employees to work 40 hours during the work
week.
FURLOUGH — The placement of an employee in a temporary
non-pay status and non-duty status (or absence from duty)
because of lack of work or funds, or for other non-disciplinary
reasons.