Above, a scientist holds standard weight with tweezers. Federal STEM term appointments in general can be used for needs expected to last from one to four years. Image: Viktorus/Shutterstock.com
By: FEDweek StaffOPM has issued guidance on carrying out rules that took effect in January allowing agencies to make term appointments of up to 10 years for certain positions in the STEM fields¸ addressing issues including the types of appointments that are subject to OPM pre-appointment review and approval.
A memo on chcoc.gov includes links to a checklist and frequently asked questions regarding the authority, which the rules said is intended to allow agencies the flexibility and discretion to hire persons with skills needed for longer-term projects that are not permanent in nature.
Term appointments in general can be used for needs expected to last from one to four years—temporary appointments typically are used for those expected to last less than a year—although the appointments can be extended under certain circumstances with OPM approval.
When using term appointing authority, agencies may use “direct hire” and other non-competitive procedures. At the end of the designated time the employees do not have the permanent status that otherwise would provide them some protections against being laid off and reinstatement priority, and they further do not have rights to be non-competitively converted to permanent positions.
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