Patent Examiners may receive a one-time accelerated promotion after six months, from GS-5 to GS-7; GS-7 to GS-9; or GS-9 to GS-11. The full-performance level is GS-13; however, after completion of the partial/full signatory program, Patent Examiners may be promoted to GS-14. All promotions are submitted by your supervisor and will be based on your productive and timely processing of patent applications.