RPES Assisting Your Scientists JL Willett and Kathy

RPES – Assisting Your Scientists JL Willett and Kathy S. Jones

What is RPES? • The Research Position Evaluation System • A grade classification system for Category 1 positions • Unique to ARS and select other Federal Agencies

RPES (cont. ) • Periodic review Interval is based on grade level As of Oct 1, 2014, GS-15 scientists are reviewed every 7 years rather than 5 years • Format • Four is given in 431. 3 M – not static! factors Factors 1 -3. B are the Position Description Factors 3. C and 4 are based on career

Key Points • Content This is the responsibility of the scientist (and RL to some extent) • Format This is where you as PSA/Sec’y can play a major role You probably see more RPES cases than anyone in your MU (other than RL and panelists/chairs)

How are panelists and incumbents selected each year? • Headquarters puts together a list of panelists and incumbents each fiscal year • MWA receives the data around late May or early June • HQ’s makes the list based on availability of panels and GS-level: GS-11/12 – every 3 years GS-13 – every 4 years GS-14 – every 5 years GS-15 – every 7 years

Sharepoint site • https: //arsnet. usda. gov/sites/MWA/RPES/default. aspx • For incumbents – MWA compiles tracking spreadsheet for entire list and updates Sharepoint site with folders for drafts and final documents • Each MU has a document site • Checklist & Outline are provided on the site • Link to RPES Manual

RPES Panel Link • http: //www. afm. ars. usda. gov/rpes/ • www. ars. usda. gov