The purpose of this study was to examine the phenomenon of career plateauing from the point of view of professional/technical specialists employed by the federal government. Answers were sought to the following questions: What effect, if any, does plateauing have on those experiencing it? Does plateauing grow in importance and effect over time? What can be done to alleviate any adverse effects of plateauing?

A qualitative, descriptive survey was conducted wherein thirty-five scientists and engineers participated in in-depth interviews relating to their jobs and careers. The data gathered was coded and displayed so that comparisons could be made across the five groups which comprised the sample. The groups were (a) younger, shorter plateaued, (b) older, shorter plateaued, (c) younger, longer plateaued, (d) older, longer plateaued, and (e) non-plateaued.

It was found that the younger, shorter plateaued subjects who were in the early stages of their careers did not experience negative reactions to plateauing. It did become problematic in mid career for some respondents but not for others. The career anchor (a concept developed by Edgar Schein) of the subject was the determining factor as to whether or not plateauing was troublesome. Those respondents anchored in technical/functional competence were either slightly or not at all concerned with their plateaued status. Those anchored in managerial competence were greatly concerned. By late career, the negative reactions to plateauing had abated for the managerially anchored and had disappeared for those anchored in technical/functional competence. Suggestions made by the respondents to mitigate any negative effects to plateauing were presented.