NASA Procedural Requirements

NPR 3730.1A Effective Date: June 13, 2018 Expiration Date: December 13, 2028

Subject: NASA Suitability Program (Updated with Change 2)

Responsible Office: Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer

Chapter 3. Background Investigations

3.1 Appointments Subject to Background Investigations for Suitability Determinations

3.1.1 Positions covered by suitability regulations as defined in 5 CFR § 731.101(b) require a background investigation by the Agency, unless specifically excluded under 5 CFR § 731.104(a).

3.1.2 A majority of civil service positions in the Agency are covered positions, which consist of competitive service positons, career appointments in the Senior Executive Service, and excepted service positions that can be non-competitively converted to the competitive service.

3.2 Appointments Subject to Background Investigations for Fitness Determinations

3.2.1 Positions not covered by suitability regulations, e.g., an excepted service position covered by 5 CFR pt. 302, require background investigations to determine fitness for employment.

3.2.2 The Center's designated adjudicator or deciding official shall use the criteria found in 5 CFR § 731.202 when making fitness determinations. Exceptions under 5 CFR § 731.104 apply.

3.2.3 A fitness determination will be made in accordance with 5 CFR pt. 731.

3.3 Appointments Not Subject to Background Investigations

OPM regulations require pre-employment checks to validate an applicant's credentials and general suitability for Federal employment for positions that are not subject to any background investigation (e.g., temporary positions not to exceed 180 days). To meet this requirement, supervisors will conduct pre-employment reference checks. Additionally, the servicing HR Office will review available relevant personnel information, including a review of the applicant's OF 306.

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