OPM EXTENDS SCHEDULE A HIRING AUTHORITY THRU DECEMBER 31

By Alex Harrington, FCC Program Director

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Job seekers who qualify under the Schedule A Hiring Authority have more time to apply for federal positions tied to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic efforts.

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The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) plans to extend the use of the excepted service Schedule A Hiring Authority under 5 CFR 213.3102(i)(3) for hiring additional staff needed in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic until December 31, 2021.

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OPM officials were planning to cease the initial authority scheduled to end on March 31, 2021. 

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“COVID-19 continues to be a serious public health emergency,” stated in an online OPM Fact Sheet. “OPM recognizes the presence of this pandemic may continue to have a negative impact on agencies’ ability to meet mission and/or hiring needs throughout 2021.”

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The advantage to job seekers under this Authority is that there is no requirement for a public notice (e.g. posting on USAJOBS.gov). So, for those who qualify under this Authority can directly contact the Agency of their choice.

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However, appointments are limited to individuals needed in direct response to the effects of COVID-19.

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To learn more, go to OPM Fact Sheet - COVID-19 Excepted Service Hiring.

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