OMB has issued new certification requirements for program and project managers working on major acquisitions.
The "Federal Acquisition Certification for Program and Project Managers," establishes competencies for different managerial levels that must be met within one year, though agencies may request an extension.
Civilian agencies are required to accept the standards as evidence that an employee meets core training and experience requirements. In addition to thorough training, experience, and other development activities, entry level managers should have one year of project management experience in the past five years, mid level managers should have two and senior level managers should have four, according to the guidance.
"Skilled program and project managers are critical in developing accurate government requirements, defining measurable performance standards, and managing contractor activities to ensure that intended outcomes are achieved," said OMB administrator Paul A. Denett.
The certification, developed by the Federal Acquisition Institute and an interagency working group, applies to all executive agencies, except those subject to the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act.
A specific training curriculum is not prescribed, though 80 hours of continuous learning is required every two years to ensure currency, and training plans are provided in guidance available at the Chief Acquisition Officers Council website.
OMB said FAI is mapping the program and project management competencies, which are included in the attachment, to learning objectives that will be used to assess current training or develop new training to meet the requirements.
Also, civilian agencies will administer the program, with periodic review by FAI.
