OPM creates hiring pool to speed applications

Applicants for several entry-level posts in the federal government can apply to multiple agencies with a single application under a new hiring pool program, the Office of Personnel Management announced.

The hiring pool shared register program currently applies to only entry-level Budget Analysts (GS 5, 7 and 9) and Information Technology Specialists (GS-9), according to OPM.

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Under the new program, which is part of an ongoing hiring reform initiative, OPM will create a shared register providing a hiring pool of eligible and qualified applicants for current job opportunities at multiple agencies in multiple locations.

“This gives applicants an opportunity to be considered for these positions through a single application process,” the agency said.

When agencies use the system, OPM will send a list of  the best qualified candidates for that vacancy. The agency then has 30 days to review the list.

“This will keep the process timely on behalf of the applicants,” OPM said.

The goal of the program is to help federal agencies speed up the hiring of high quality applicants into critical positions.

"Shared registers are an innovative tool to help federal agencies address some critical staffing challenges," OPM Director John Berry said in a written statement. "OPM is evolving this tool to help agencies and the high quality applicants they need to connect quickly and efficiently."

In 2009, OPM established shared registers for 12 common occupations. Based on feedback from agencies and from the Chief Human Capital Officers Council, the registers were closed and retargeted to two specific entry-level occupations, which were deemed to provide the most effective use of the registers.