Air Force implements civilian hiring freeze

  • Published
  • By SSgt Marissa Tucker
  • Air Force Public Affairs Agency
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  Air Force senior leaders directed a force-wide hiring freeze among other workforce actions in a memorandum sent to senior commanders Jan. 16.

The actions are part of the Air Force's efforts to pursue reversible or recoverable steps to avoid impacts to core readiness caused by the looming possibility of sequestration and budgetary shortfalls.

The temporary hiring freeze applies to all positions that are open to applicants outside the Air Force for permanent, temporary and term vacancies in all appropriations, according to the memo. Reassignments and promotions within the current work force will continue because they do not affect the current force size.

Presently, the freeze is not affecting current employees at Incirlik.

"Current personnel will not be affected by the hiring freeze," said Charlotte Kinser, 39th Force Support Squadron Civilian Personnel Section human resources officer. "Air Force civilians can still apply for positions within the Air Force. External hiring is what is being restricted."

Commanders are directed to immediately release temporary employees and not renew term employees. All temporary and term employees, to include reemployed annuitants who are not considered mission critical, should be separated in accordance with already established procedures.

Civilian employees here will be notified if any sudden changes occur and are encouraged to only take guidance from official channels.

"There are many rumors circulating on base that have no basis," Kinser said. "Different agencies are taking different tactics to handle possible shortfalls. If further budgetary actions are needed, i.e., furlough, advance notice of no less than 45 days will be given. There is no official plan for furlough or any other extensive actions at this time."

More specific guidance on actions related to the civilian workforce hiring freeze and management of temporary and term employees is being developed and will be distributed through command channels as soon as details are available.

Anyone with questions can contact the civilian personnel office at Incirlik civilian personnel office at 39fss.fsmccivilianpersonnel@incirlik.af.mil.