Decoding job satisfaction in the Nepalese public sector: patterns and predictors

Abstract

ABSTRACT In this study, we investigate job satisfaction within the Nepalese civil service, utilizing data from a survey of 858 Nepalese civil servants. Our findings reveal a moderate level of job satisfaction, with several factors influencing its variability. Particularly, relationships with colleagues, the physical environment, and remuneration emerge as significant determinants, where higher values correspond to increased job satisfaction. These findings are consistent with the theoretical expectations of social exchange theory. Beyond these conventional variables, innovation, higher authoritarian cultural orientation (ACO), and the nature of civil service groups (Administrative service vs. Others) significantly shape job satisfaction levels. Furthermore, factors such as transfer scopes, promotion policy, and human resource development programs are identified as areas of low satisfaction among civil servants. While these factors do not demonstrate statistically significant associations with the degree of variation in job satisfaction, their dissatisfaction likely contributes to an overall decrease in job satisfaction.