Policy update to make civilian hiring quicker

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RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  To increase the efficiency in filling civilian vacancies, effective New Year's Day, selecting officials will have 45 days instead of 90 to choose the best-qualified candidate.

"We continue to refine the civilian hiring process where we can to speed up the hiring action," said Maj. Gen. K.C. McClain, Air Force Personnel Center commander. "We understand that mission requirements are hampered when positions remain vacant. Our goal is to fill civilian vacancies in less than 120 days, and with the support of managers Air Force-wide, we can get Air Force jobs filled in a timelier manner."

Under current policy, managers have 90 days to make a selection once they receive a list of candidates. The 90-day rule was put in place in June 2007 to ease the transition into the National Security Personnel System. A review of policy showed managers were more comfortable with the system and could make the decision in 45 days or less.

Jamie Beattie with the Directorate of Civilian Force Integration at AFPC said she doesn't anticipate managers having any problems keeping within the 45-day window.

"This is not only a very doable requirement, but right now many of our managers are currently making their decisions in less than 45 days because they are anxious to get their workforce up to full strength," said Ms. Beattie. "In those rare cases where an exception is needed, the new rules will allow the wing commander or equivalent to grant a 15-day extension when extenuating circumstances dictate."

Hiring officials are also encouraged to submit a personnel action as soon as they are aware there will be a vacancy.

"Hiring officials do not have to wait for the position to be vacant before they begin the fill action," said Ms. Beattie. "We need the action in the system so we can begin the hiring process. By working together, we can better deliver capability to commanders."

AFPC continues to work internal process initiatives that reduce hiring time. The Center is currently working with the Office of the Secretary of Defense on a single system that will streamline the hiring actions by replacing three existing systems.

The Air Force is scheduled to launch the system in February with all Pacific Air Force bases, Lackland AFB, Texas, and Randolph AFB, Texas, as the test bases.

For more information, visit AFPC's "Ask" Web site or call the 24-hour Air Force Contact Center at (800) 616-3775.