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Understanding Covered Noncareer Employee [Administrative Personnel] in Government
Definition & Meaning
A covered noncareer employee is a specific type of government employee who holds a high-level position. This includes individuals who are not classified as Special Government employees and occupy roles above GS-15 on the General Schedule or equivalent positions with a salary at least 120 percent of the GS-15 minimum pay rate. These employees typically include those appointed by the President, noncareer members of the Senior Executive Service, and individuals in certain executive assignments. Their roles come with specific limitations on outside employment and income to prevent conflicts of interest.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
This term is primarily used in the context of government ethics and employment law. Covered noncareer employees are subject to regulations that restrict outside earned income and affiliations to ensure they maintain impartiality and integrity in their roles. Legal practitioners may encounter this term when advising clients on compliance with government ethics rules, particularly in matters involving employment contracts and outside business activities.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
(Hypothetical example) A person appointed as a Deputy Secretary of a federal agency is classified as a covered noncareer employee. They must adhere to restrictions on outside consulting work to avoid conflicts of interest.
(Hypothetical example) An individual serving as a noncareer member of the Senior Executive Service cannot accept paid speaking engagements without prior approval, as they are considered a covered noncareer employee.
Relevant laws & statutes
The primary regulation governing covered noncareer employees is found in 5 CFR 2636, which outlines limitations on outside earned income and employment for these individuals. This regulation is part of the broader framework of government ethics laws aimed at maintaining public trust in government operations.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Key Differences
Special Government Employee
An individual who is appointed to a temporary position in the government.
Covered noncareer employees hold permanent high-level positions, while Special Government employees are typically in temporary roles.
Career Employee
An employee who has a permanent position in the government with a career path.
Covered noncareer employees are appointed and do not have the same job security or career progression as career employees.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are a covered noncareer employee, it is essential to understand your limitations regarding outside income and employment. Review the relevant regulations and consult with your agency's ethics officer if you have questions about specific activities. For assistance with compliance or to create necessary documentation, consider exploring US Legal Forms' templates designed for government employees.
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Possible Penalties: Disciplinary action for non-compliance with ethical guidelines.
Key takeaways
Frequently asked questions
A covered noncareer employee is a high-level government employee appointed by the President or similar authority, subject to specific ethical restrictions.
They can have outside jobs, but there are strict limitations to prevent conflicts of interest.
Covered noncareer employees are appointed to high-level positions without the same job security and career progression as career employees.