OPM EXTENDS SPECIAL COVID-19 HIRING AUTHORITY FOR ANOTHER SIX MONTHS

By Alex Harrington, Executive Director

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The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) extended the Coronavirus COVID-19 Schedule A Hiring Authority for agencies through next June 30, 2022.

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The new extension gives job seekers -- who qualify under the Schedule A Hiring Authority -- more time to apply for federal positions tied to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic efforts.

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According to an OPM Fact Sheet, "COVID-19 continues to be a serious public health emergency. OPM recognizes the presence of this pandemic requires that agencies can conduct strategic, targeted hiring for specific critical, short-term roles to meet mission and/or hiring needs."

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For those who meet the criteria for the COVID-19 Excepted Service Hiring Authority have unique advantages compared to regular competitive hiring. For instance, no public notice on USAJOBS.gov is required. But "agencies can advertise if they choose and should conduct other appropriate recruiting activities."

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Additionally, agencies must follow procedures in 5 CFR part 302, including veterans’ preference and pass overs of certain veterans, when using this authority and make appointments on a temporary basis for up to one year.

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Finally, this special hiring appointment can be extended for one additional year.

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OPM first introduced the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Schedule A Hiring Authority in March 2020 to address the need for hiring additional staff in response to the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19.

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For more information, go to:

• OPM Fact Sheet - COVID-19 Excepted Service Hiring Authority
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) Schedule A Hiring Authority, March 2020
• OPM Extends Schedule A Hiring Authority Thru December 31

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