Entry-Level Hires Are Starting Later, Value Old-Fashioned Perks

That suggests that "the old employment contract is not yet dead," the report said, and runs counter to some research that shows that the young generation is no longer motivated by job security and the prospect of promotions up an organizational hierarchy.

Contrary to popular perceptions, many of the new employees had full-time work experience before joining the government. In the survey, 32 percent reported working for one to five years before accepting a federal job, and a surprising proportion -- 20 percent -- said they had more than 20 years of work experience beforehand.

That report said many new federal hires are starting a second career with the government, hoping to supplement their private-sector retirement with federal benefits.

The new federal employees signaled strong interest in the benefits that come with a government job. The majority said yearly salary increases, vacation time, health insurance, 401(k)-type retirement savings plans and fixed pensions were important when considering job offers.

When comparing responses of those under 30 to those of workers older than 30, the board found that there was little difference between the two groups and that some traditional benefits, such as annual pay raises and health insurance, were more important to the younger new hires.

The merit board's report also noted that if federal employees do not resign in their first year or two of employment, they usually stick with the government.

"So once federal employees get in the door -- regardless of generation -- the government may likely retain them through their career," the report said.