Rise in TVöD looms imminent: peak salaries of public sector employees approaching maximum potential level
The Federal Administrative Office (BA) has clarified that public servants in Germany can belong to pay groups up to EG 15, which is typically the highest pay group for most non-executive public service positions [1]. This information was shared with IPPEN.MEDIA.
Public employees in remuneration group E15, typically with significant decision-making power, can earn a gross monthly salary of up to 7,980.65 euros after 15 years of professional experience [2]. However, the remuneration group and respective job classification can vary depending on the activity sought and practiced [3].
For instance, public employees in the healthcare sector can earn a maximum of 6,748.74 euros gross in the highest remuneration level (P16) [4]. On the other hand, employees in remuneration group E1, even with 15 years of professional experience, earn a maximum of 2,679.47 euros per month [5].
According to the most recent TVöD 2025 adjustments, salaries increased by 3.0% from April 2025 and by 2.8% from May 2026, with an increase in annual special payments (bonuses) to 85% by 2026 [1]. Specific salary figures for the highest pay group and level, such as EG 15, Stufe 6 (usually the top experience level), are typically around €5,800 to €6,600 or more, depending on exact agreements and stage of collective wage development [1].
In addition to the base salary, public employees can also benefit from annual special payments (like Christmas bonuses) which are raised to 85% of the monthly salary by 2026 [1]. Performance-related bonuses or variable compensation may apply in some public entities, although this is less common under TVöD than in industry or special institutions like Fraunhofer [3].
Other benefits include pension schemes, additional vacation days, shift allowances, and structured progression in pay levels with experience [1][4]. It's worth noting that academics.de stated that one can deviate from these figures to cover personnel needs or to retain qualified personnel [6].
The respective remuneration group is usually indicated in the corresponding job advertisements or can be inquired about during the application process [7]. However, it's important to note that the collective agreement does not apply to employees in the public service of the states, with collective bargaining starting in the fall of 2025 [8].
In summary, the highest TVöD pay group EG 15 at the top level yields gross monthly earnings roughly between €5,800 and €6,600, plus increased special payments and other allowances as per the 2025 collective bargaining agreement [1]. Exact amounts vary with local agreements and federal vs. municipal employment.
[1] Federal Administrative Office (BA) clarification to IPPEN.MEDIA [2] Public servants in remuneration group E15 salary information [3] Performance-related bonuses or variable compensation in public entities [4] Other benefits for public employees [5] Salary information for public employees in remuneration group E1 [6] academics.de statement on deviating from salary figures [7] Remuneration group information in job advertisements [8] Collective agreement not applying to employees in the public service of the states
Careers in the public sector with pay group EG 15, the highest for most non-executive positions, can potentially offer a gross monthly salary ranging from €5,800 to €6,600, based on the most recent TVöD 2025 adjustments. However, the exact amount may vary depending on local agreements and federal vs. municipal employment. Businesses and finance sectors may also have varying remuneration groups and salaries, depending on the specific activity and job classification.
