A non-career appointee is an individual who holds a position within the Senior Executive Service (SES) but does not have the status of a career appointee. This classification also excludes limited term and limited emergency appointees. Non-career appointees are typically appointed based on their qualifications, expertise, or political affiliation rather than through a competitive civil service process.
The term "non-career appointee" is primarily used in the context of federal employment law, particularly within the framework of the Senior Executive Service. It is relevant in discussions about employment rights, job security, and the appointment process for high-level positions in government agencies. Users may encounter forms related to employment agreements or appointment letters when dealing with non-career appointees.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A skilled manager with extensive experience in public administration is appointed as a non-career appointee to lead a federal agency's new initiative. They were chosen for their expertise rather than through the competitive civil service process.
Example 2: A political appointee is brought in as a non-career appointee to help implement a new policy agenda in a government department. (hypothetical example)
The primary statute governing non-career appointees is found in the United States Code, specifically 5 USCS § 3132, which outlines the definitions and classifications within the Senior Executive Service.
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Career Appointee | A federal employee who has completed a competitive selection process. | Career appointees have more job security and are protected from political dismissal. |
| Limited Term Appointee | An individual appointed for a specific period, usually not exceeding three years. | Limited term appointees have a set end date for their employment, unlike non-career appointees. |
| Limited Emergency Appointee | A temporary appointment made during a national emergency. | This type of appointment is made under urgent circumstances, unlike non-career appointments. |
If you are involved in a situation concerning a non-career appointee, consider the following steps:
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical Appointment Duration | Indeterminate; based on agency needs and political factors. |
| Job Security | Less secure than career appointees; subject to political changes. |
| Jurisdiction | Federal government positions. |
A non-career appointee is appointed based on qualifications or political affiliation, while a career appointee has gone through a competitive selection process and enjoys greater job security.