OPM EXTENDS SCHEDULE A HIRING AUTHORITY THRU DECEMBER 31

By Alex Harrington, FCC Program Director

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.

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.  

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

“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.”

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.

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

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

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Author: Alex Harrington is currently a Federal civil servant and a Certified Career Services Provider and Global Career Development Facilitator. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps and is a Persian Gulf War veteran.