<![CDATA[This study examines the implications of administrative position equalization for the long-term career development of functional civil servants, particularly the promotion pathway from Senior Expert Functional Positions (Ahli Madya) to Principal Expert Functional Positions (Ahli Utama). Unlike previous studies that primarily focused on administrative implementation, this research evaluates changes in career opportunity structures resulting from shifts in the composition of Indonesia's civil service positions following bureaucratic simplification. The study employs a qualitative descriptive approach combining normative-juridical analysis with secondary data analysis using the National Civil Service Agency's civil service statistics (2021 and 2025), relevant regulations on bureaucratic simplification and functional position management, and a case study of the position map at the Agency's headquarters. The findings indicate that the substantial increase in Ahli Madya positions has not been accompanied by a proportional expansion of Ahli Utama formations. This imbalance narrows promotion opportunities and provides strong evidence of a structural career bottleneck for officials appointed through position equalization. The findings suggest that the success of bureaucratic simplification should be evaluated not only by organizational streamlining but also by the sustainability of career development within the merit system. The study contributes to the literature by integrating national civil service workforce composition, institutional arrangements governing functional positions, and organizational position mapping to explain how bureaucratic reform reshapes career opportunity structures. It recommends revising Ahli Utama workforce planning to better align with the growing population of Ahli Madya officials.]]>
