Hiring Process Analysis Tool

Step 12: Initiate Investigation at the Appropriate Level for the Position to be Filled

The Initiate Investigation at the Appropriate Level for the Position to be Filled element is the responsibility of the Security Office. This element takes 10 days to complete. The Human Resources Office refers the selectee's documents to start the suitability clearance. The Security and Suitability Roadmap will be followed when performing this element.

Validate the Need

The Security and Suitability Roadmap begins with validating the need for the new position. Once the position has been validated, the accuracy of the position description is confirmed.

Designate the Position

Next the position will be designated using the OPM provided Position Designation System.

Identify Candidate and Extend Offer of Employment

After the position has been designated, a candidate will be identified and he/she will be extended an offer of employment.

Review Candidate's Declaration for Federal Employment

Then the candidate's declaration of federal employment will be reviewed.

Determine if there is a Current Investigation

If the examination is favorable, those involved with security and suitability will determine if there is a current investigation and/or adjudication that may satisfy investigative or adjudicative requirements under reciprocity rules and whether a valid Federal identity credential can be verified.

Initiate Request for Investigation

If there is no current investigation, the next step will be to initiate a request for an investigation. If OPM will be the investigative service provider, the agency submits an investigative request package in accordance with OPM guidance contained in publication INV-15 (formerly IS-15) "Requesting OPM Personnel Investigations." If a new request for investigation has been initiated, the agency may make an interim credentialing consistent with Government-wide guidance.

Interim Credentialing Upon Fingerprinting Results

Interim clearance decisions and interim appointment decisions can also be made at this point. The employee may enter on duty if the agency desires, in advance of investigation completion and final adjudication, depending on position sensitivity and whether pre-appointment investigative requirements may be temporarily waived.

Then OPM screens the completed investigation for jurisdiction regarding issues that could result in debarment from Federal employment.

Adjudicate Investigation

If the investigation is not retained for adjudication by OPM, then an Adjudicate Investigation will begin. If a favorable adjudication is returned and the employee has not yet entered on duty, the employee may enter on duty.

OPM Steps: 10
OPM Total Days: 65