A flexible NASA workforce that has all the right skills in place at the right times consists of a variety of components, including permanent civil servants, contractors, experts and consultants, temporary and “term” employees, and individuals on temporary assignments from academia and industry. Such a mixture allows managers to staff programs and projects as needed with individuals who have up-to-the-minute skills and competencies, and take advantage of the services of those who might want to participate in a particular program or project, without making a long-term commitment to NASA employment. Short-term workers can make a tremendous contribution by bringing fresh ideas and perspectives into the workforce.
Ideally, a manager should consider a variety of options when filling a position or staffing a project, rather than relying on the traditional approach of filling each position with a permanent civil servant, or performing the work through a contract. Ask yourself these questions when faced with a job vacancy or a new assignment:
- What are the skills I need to get this work done?
- What is the best source of these skills (e.g., civil service workforce, academia, industry, recent college graduate vs. experienced specialist)?
- Do I need someone with these skills long-term, or for the duration of a project? (If the latter, what would happen to the individual upon the completion of the project/assignment?)
- Would I like to have the flexibility to staff future projects with individuals with different, or more up-to-date skills or competencies?
- Do I have a temporary surge in workload that may not be supported long term?
- Will I have attrition in key areas, and need to think about succession planning?
There are a number of civil service staffing solutions to meet these needs, besides the traditional “permanent” appointment. The workers on the types of assignments and appointments described here enjoy a number of benefits, with the primary attraction being the opportunity to make a contribution to our Nation’s aeronautics or space programs.
Note: The purpose of this toolbox is to provide managers and supervisors with information about programs, authorities, and incentives that exist to help to recruit, hire, and motivate potential employees as we shape NASA’s workforce. This guidance is not intended to be all-inclusive. To find out how these tools can help you, contact your human resources office for additional guidance. |
