The U.S. civil service is a system that manages the hiring and employment of government workers. It aims to ensure that jobs are filled based on merit rather than political connections. This system includes various federal, state, and local government positions, which are often filled through competitive exams and assessments. Established by the Pendleton Act of 1883, the civil service was created to combat corruption and promote efficiency in government. Today, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management oversees the civil service, ensuring that employees are qualified and that the hiring process is fair and transparent.