Final answer:
Satisfactory assessment ratings indicate that a sailor can handle the aspects of the next higher paygrade in the U.S. civil service.
Step-by-step explanation:
The performance trait grade that indicates a sailor can handle the aspects of the next higher paygrade in the U.S. civil service is typically the satisfactory assessment ratings received over time. As civil servants progress through the grades, they are evaluated based on their performance and given assessment ratings. Higher performance ratings indicate that the sailor has demonstrated the necessary skills, experience, and education to handle the responsibilities of the higher paygrade.