OPM is considering a change in entry-level hiring policy that would allow agencies to bring in many college graduates at a higher starting salary level, a change that if approved could help managers in filling entry-level positions.
The idea under consideration would change the grade level for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree from GS-5 grade (or equivalent) level to GS-7 grade (or equivalent) level. “This change eliminates the Superior Academic Achievement provision and impacts the qualification requirements for other grades in the 2-grade interval line of progression. We expect these changes to reduce the possibility that applicants may be unfairly screened out who otherwise would be able to perform the requirements of the position and increase and broaden the qualified applicant pool,” OPM said in a memo to HR directors.
OPM also is planning to reduce the number of qualification standards human resources specialists must use to evaluate basic qualifications for professional and scientific work.
The documents put out for comment are at www.opm.gov/qualifications/standards/Drafts/.
