Job plateauing refers to a state where employees feel that their career growth and advancement have stalled, leading to decreased motivation and job satisfaction. This phenomenon can result in reduced productivity, increased stress, and a higher tendency to leave the job. This qualitative study, using a grounded theory approach, investigates the factors affecting job plateauing among employees of the Human Resources Department at Tehran Municipality. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 12 employees from various departments.

The results revealed that job plateauing is influenced by individual, managerial, and organizational factors. Individual factors include reduced intrinsic motivation, lack of a clear career vision, and limited opportunities for learning new skills. Managerial factors involve ineffective leadership styles, lack of adequate support and feedback, and absence of promotion opportunities. Organizational factors include complex structures, lack of transparency, and discrimination in appointments.

Additionally, the conservative and restrictive environment within the municipality hinders innovation and change, further exacerbating job plateauing. This study emphasizes that to mitigate this issue, programs aimed at enhancing motivation, skill development, leadership style reform, and creating a supportive work environment must be implemented to improve productivity and job satisfaction.