2020 Office of Personnel Management 

Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey

Empowering Employees. Inspiring Change.

Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board 

Small Agency Management Report

United States Office of Personnel Management OPM.GOV/FEVS #FEVS
ii

Table of Contents

About This Report ..................................................................................................................................................................................1

Employee Engagement Index.................................................................................................................................................................4

Employee Engagement Index Benchmarks........................................................................................................................................4

Employee Engagement Index Component Scores and Trends ...........................................................................................................5

Global Satisfaction Index .......................................................................................................................................................................6

Global Satisfaction Index Benchmarks..............................................................................................................................................6

Global Satisfaction Index Component Scores and Trends ..................................................................................................................7

Decision Aid: Increases...........................................................................................................................................................................8

Decision Aid: Decreases....................................................................................................................................................................... 10

Decision Aid: No Change..................................................................................................................................................................... 11

Appendix A: Item Results and Benchmarks......................................................................................................................................... 12

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results............................................................................................................................................ 18

Appendix C: Work-Life Programs......................................................................................................................................................... 25

Appendix D: Participating Agencies by Employee Population Size Categories..................................................................................... 28
1

About This Report

The 2020 OPM Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey (OPM FEVS) Small 

Agency Management Report (SAM) was designed to provide an overview 

of survey results, enabling agencies to easily identify issues and take action 

for improvement. The SAM can be helpful in providing a starting point for 

analysis of your agency’s OPM FEVS results, acting as an agency overview 

before drilling down into specific components of the agency for a more 

in-depth analysis. This report also highlights important agency successes, 

which should be acknowledged. We encourage you to share both successes 

and areas for improvement with employees. 

Changes to the 2020 Survey 

The OPM FEVS looks a little different this year. In prior years, the survey 

included 71 standard core items, but the core items were reduced to 38 in 

2020 for several reasons. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many agencies 

asked OPM to substantially shorten the 2020 survey to ease administrative burden and demonstrate sensitivity 

to employee situations. Congress and numerous agencies also asked OPM to include COVID-19 items to be 

responsive to changing conditions that might impact the needs of employees and agencies. Agency level results for 

the COVID-19 items can be found in Appendix B. The 2020 survey is the result of OPM’s goal to be responsive to the 

needs of employees and agencies in this unprecedented pandemic.

Sections of the SAM

Employee Engagement Index and Global Satisfaction Index

The Employee Engagement Index (EEI) and Global Satisfaction Index provide agencies with consistent metrics for 

measuring progress toward objectives. Benchmarks are included to provide insight into how your agency compares 

to others, and to encourage information sharing between agencies. For example, some of the top ranking agencies 

in the Employee Engagement Index may have suggestions on things that have and have not worked to engage their 

employees. Trends for the indices are also displayed.

Decision Aid

The Decision Aid is useful in easily identifying the most critical issues in your agency as well as recognizing 

where your agency has improved since 2019. The Decision Aid is divided into three sections to help you focus your 

attention on improvements and declines in your core item results since last year:

Increases contains items that increased since 2019

Decreases contains items that decreased since 2019

No Change contains items that did not change since 2019

Appendices

The appendices give you an opportunity to more thoroughly understand your workforce by displaying item-level results. 

Appendix A shows how well your agency scored relative other small agencies. Scanning the graphs can indicate 

how your agency is generally performing as well as help you identify particularly strong or weak areas.

Appendix B shows the COVID-19 Pandemic results for your agency. 

Appendix C shows the Work-Life Program results for your agency.

Appendix D lists all agencies arranged by employee population size. 

Note: The Decision Aid only includes items 1-38, excluding item 11. See Appendix C for a breakdown of the Work-Life results for your agency.

DNFSB Response Rate

83% (66 out of 80 

employees responded)

Field Period: 

September 24, 2020 – November 5, 2020 

Overall 2019 Response Rate: 71%

Component Response Rates

 85% Office of the Technical Director

 72% Office of the General Manager

Agency results have a margin of error of +/- 11%

About This Report
2

About This Report (continued)

Understanding Your Results

When reviewing results, keep the guidelines below in mind. These guidelines were created to organize survey 

results in a way that is easier to digest and interpret.

Percent Positive is the sum of two positive categories (e.g., Strongly Agree/Agree)

Percent Negative is the sum of two negative categories (e.g., Strongly Disagree/Disagree)

Percent Neutral is the neutral category (e.g., Neither Agree nor Disagree)

Identifying Strengths, Challenges, and Neutral Findings

65 percent positive or higher is considered a strength

35 percent negative or higher is considered a challenge

30 percent neutral or higher suggests uncertainty, presenting an opportunity for communication 

between managers and staff

Identifying Increases and Decreases

Movement up or down since the previous year is another important piece of information to consider when 

examining your results. Any increase or decrease in results can be important; however larger increases or 

decreases (generally 3 or more percentage points) may be a result of significant changes taking place within 

your agency and should be explored. Increases indicate positive change that should continue to be reinforced. 

Decreases, especially in areas considered mission critical, may call for appropriate action to initiate and support 

beneficial workplace improvements.

Additional OPM FEVS Resources

Other Reports

Governmentwide Management Report

 This report provides an overview of the governmentwide results. The report includes item results, index scores, 

information on who responded to the survey, survey updates, and other special topics.

All Levels, All Indices, All Items Report

 The purpose of this report is to provide a comprehensive summary of all OPM FEVS items and index scores for 

subagencies with at least 10 respondents in a Microsoft® Excel® spreadsheet.

Subagency Comparison Report

 This report provides the results of all the offices that report to the same “parent” office. This report is only created 

when there are two or more sub-offices that both have at least 10 responses. Note: Subagency reports are only 

available for agencies that included organizational breakouts in 2020.

Subagency Breakout Report

 This report displays survey results for a single office so long as it has at least 10 responses. Note: Subagency 

reports are only available for agencies that included organizational breakouts in 2020.

Occupational Series Reports

 This report allows for the comparison of occupational series and families at the agency and first level.

Annual Employee Survey (AES) Report

 This report is a Microsoft® Excel® spreadsheet with a breakdown of agency and first level results. It also includes 

trends from previous OPM FEVS administrations.

About This Report
3

About This Report (continued)

Websites

OPM FEVS Website

 Agencies and the general public can access governmentwide data reports, as well as special topic reports produced 

from the OPM FEVS. This website includes results from the 2004 administration of the survey to the present. 

Access the OPM FEVS website at www.opm.gov/FEVS.

Public Release Data File (PRDF)

 A public use data set is available for the OPM FEVS and can be requested by completing the form available at: 

www.opm.gov/fevs/public-data-file. Note: The 2020 PRDF will be available in the spring of 2021.

FedScope

 OPM’s FedScope is an online publicly available tool which allows users to access and analyze HR data from OPM’s 

Enterprise Human Resources Integration (EHRI). Access this site using the following link: www.fedscope.opm.gov.

OPM FEVS Online Reporting and Analysis Tool

 A password protected tool for agency points of contact to access agency-specific and governmentwide reports. In 

addition, agency users can develop customized reports that may be useful for data analysis and action planning. 

Questions and feedback for this online tool can be sent to EVS@opm.gov.

About This Report
4

Employee Engagement Index

Because the OPM FEVS is an assessment of organizational climate, the Employee Engagement Index (EEI) does 

not directly evaluate an employee’s level of engagement. Therefore, instead of measuring aspects of engagement 

such as focused attention and dedication to completing assignments, this index concentrates on factors that lead 

to an engaged workforce (e.g., supporting employee development, communicating agency goals).

Below, you can see where your agency’s EEI score ranks (out of 42 small agencies with 10 or more respondents) 

and how it compares to the combined small agency average. The names of the highest-ranked small agencies are 

listed to facilitate the sharing of information, such as best practices. 

Employee Engagement Index Benchmarks: Small Agencies, Combined

rank

1 96% NCPC

rank

2 95% MMC

rank

3 89% OSHRC

rank

27 DNFSB 73%

75% Small Agencies, Combined

In addition to looking at your agency’s EEI results from a combined small agencies perspective, the figure below 

allows you to compare your EEI results to those from similar sized agencies. Appendix D contains a listing of 

agencies by size category for your reference.

Employee Engagement Index Benchmarks: Very Small Agencies (< 100 employees)

rank

1 96% NCPC

rank

2 95% MMC

rank

3 89% OSHRC

rank

12 DNFSB 73%

81% Very Small Agencies

Employee Engagement Index
5

Employee Engagement Index (continued)

This table displays the EEI score for each component in your agency as well as the scores for the three engagement 

subindices, which can facilitate information-sharing within your agency. To provide more information on engagement, 

the table also includes engagement trends back to 2017 for your components, as well as the combined small agency 

trends for comparison. Please note that depending on organizational structure in previous administrations, not all 

components may trend back to 2017.

Employee Engagement Index Component Scores and Trends

Agency

EEI Trends 2020 EEI Subindices

2017 2018 2019 2020

Leaders 

Lead Supervisors

Intrinsic Work 

Experience

Small Agencies, Combined 70 69 69 75 64 83 78

Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board 56 57 61 73 57 88 74

Office of the Technical Director 56 50 57 74 53 94 77

Office of the General Manager 56 81 76 66 64 69 66

Leaders Lead: Employees’ perceptions of leadership’s integrity as well as leadership behaviors such as communication and workforce motivation. (Q.26, 27, 28, 30, and 31)

Supervisors: Interpersonal relationship between worker and supervisor, including trust, respect, and support. (Q.21, 22, 23, 24, and 25)

Intrinsic Work Experience: Employees’ feelings of motivation and competency relating to their role in the workplace. (Q.2, 3, 4, 6, and 7)

Employee Engagement Index
6

Global Satisfaction Index

The Global Satisfaction Index is a combination of employees’ satisfaction with their jobs, their pay, and their 

organization, plus their willingness to recommend their organization as a good place to work. Below, you can see 

where your agency’s Global Satisfaction Index score ranks (out of 42 small agencies with 10 or more respondents) 

and how it compares to the combined small agency average. The names of the highest-ranked small agencies are 

listed to facilitate the sharing of information, such as best practices. 

Global Satisfaction Index Benchmarks: Small Agencies, Combined

rank

1 94% MMC

rank

2 92% OSHRC

rank

3 89% NCPC

rank

30 DNFSB 67%

72% Small Agencies, Combined

In addition to looking at your agency’s Global Satisfaction Index results from a combined small agencies perspective, 

the figure below allows you to compare your Global Satisfaction Index results to those from similar sized agencies. 

Appendix D contains a listing of agencies by size category for your reference.

Global Satisfaction Index Benchmarks: Very Small Agencies (< 100 employees)

rank

1 94% MMC

rank

2 92% OSHRC

rank

3 89% NCPC

rank

13 DNFSB 67%

75% Very Small Agencies

Global Satisfaction Index
7

Global Satisfaction Index (continued)

This table displays the Global Satisfaction index score for each component in your agency as well as the scores for 

the four items that make up the index. To provide more information on Global satisfaction, the table also includes 

trends back to 2017 for your components, as well as the combined small agency trends for comparison. Please note 

that depending on organizational structure in previous administrations, not all components may trend back to 2017.

Global Satisfaction Index Component Scores and Trends

Agency

GS Index Trends 2020 Global Satisfaction Index Items

2017 2018 2019 2020

Job 

Satisfaction

Pay 

Satisfaction

Organization 

Satisfaction

Recommend 

Organization

Small Agencies, Combined 66 65 65 72 75 68 70 73

Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board 48 48 53 67 67 84 57 62

Office of the Technical Director 47 39 49 68 72 86 56 60

Office of the General Manager 52 84 60 61 53 73 55 62

Job Satisfaction: Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your job? (Q.36)

Pay Satisfaction: Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your pay? (Q.37)

Organization Satisfaction: Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your organization? (Q.38)

Recommend Organization: I recommend my organization as a good place to work. (Q.17)

Global Satisfaction Index
8

Decision Aid: Increases

Identifying Increases Since 2019

The items in this section are sorted by greatest to smallest increase in percent positive results. The items are sorted 

to allow you to quickly and easily identify where your agency has made the greatest improvements since last year.

Using the Legend Icons

The legend icons provide context for interpreting these results. While these items have improved, some may still be 

considered challenges (35% or more negative) or others may have reached the 65% or more positive mark and become 

new strengths this year. The “Top Pos/Neg” icons highlight where an item is either in the top 10 positive items or 

top 10 negative items for your agency.

31 Items Increased Since 2019

Strength

These items are 

65 percent positive 

or higher

Caution

These items are 

30 percent neutral 

or higher

Challenge

These items are 

35 percent negative 

or higher

New Strength

These items became 

a new strength 

in 2020

Top Pos/Neg

These items are in 

your top positive 

or top negative

+

–

Item

2019

Positive

2020 

Positive

2020 

Neutral

2020 

Negative

Increase 

Since 2019

My organization’s senior leaders maintain high standards of honesty and integrity. (Q. 27) 21 59 27 14 +38

I have a high level of respect for my organization’s senior leaders. (Q. 31) 25 54 29 17 +29

My talents are used well in the workplace. (Q. 6) 49 76This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This became a new strength in 2020.

6 18 +27

Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your organization? (Q. 38) 33 57 18 26This item is in your top negative. +24

In my organization, senior leaders generate high levels of motivation and commitment 

in the workforce. (Q. 26) 21 43 30This item is 30 percent neutral or higher.

26This item is in your top negative. +22

Employees are recognized for providing high quality products and services. (Q. 14) 52 74This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This became a new strength in 2020.

12 14 +22

My agency is successful at accomplishing its mission. (Q. 16) 50 71This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This became a new strength in 2020.

20 9 +21

I feel encouraged to come up with new and better ways of doing things. (Q. 2) 44 61 12 26This item is in your top negative. +17

In my work unit, steps are taken to deal with a poor performer who cannot or will not 

improve. (Q. 10) 39 56 23 21This item is in your top negative. +17

My supervisor is committed to a workforce representative of all segments of society. (Q. 20) 64 81This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This became a new strength in 2020.

14 5 +17

Notes: The Decision Aid only includes core items (items 1-38, excluding item 11) that carried over from the 2019 OPM FEVS. See Appendix C for a breakdown of the Work-Life 

results for your agency.

Decision Aid: Increases
9

Decision Aid: Increases (continued)

Item

2019

Positive

2020 

Positive

2020 

Neutral

2020 

Negative

Increase 

Since 2019

I recommend my organization as a good place to work. (Q. 17) 45 62 17 21 +17

Managers communicate the goals of the organization. (Q. 28) 54 70This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This became a new strength in 2020.

13 17 +16

In my work unit, differences in performance are recognized in a meaningful way. (Q. 12) 45 61 19 20 +16

Senior leaders demonstrate support for Work-Life programs. (Q. 32) 77 90This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

7 3 +13

How satisfied are you with the information you receive from management on what’s 

going on in your organization? (Q. 34) 50 63 16 21This item is in your top negative. +13

How satisfied are you with your involvement in decisions that affect your work? (Q. 33) 40 52 21 27This item is in your top negative. +12

Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your pay? (Q. 37) 73 84This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

6 10 +11

I believe the results of this survey will be used to make my agency a better place 

to work. (Q. 18) 32 43 22 35This item is 35 percent negative or higher.

This item is in your top negative.

+11

Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by your immediate supervisor? (Q. 25) 75 86This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

6 8 +11

I know how my work relates to the agency’s goals. (Q. 7) 75 86This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

3 12 +11

My work unit has the job-relevant knowledge and skills necessary to accomplish 

organizational goals. (Q. 13) 72 82This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 6 12 +10

I know what is expected of me on the job. (Q. 4) 69 78This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 3 19 +9

Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your job? (Q. 36) 59 67This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This became a new strength in 2020.

8 25This item is in your top negative. +8

My workload is reasonable. (Q. 5) 64 72This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This became a new strength in 2020.

12 16 +8

I have trust and confidence in my supervisor. (Q. 24) 77 83This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 9 8 +6

How satisfied are you with the recognition you receive for doing a good job? (Q. 35) 53 58 24 18 +5

The people I work with cooperate to get the job done. (Q. 9) 84 88This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

3 9 +4

Supervisors in my work unit support employee development. (Q. 21) 86 90This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

6 5 +4

Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by the manager directly above your 

immediate supervisor? (Q. 30) 56 58 20 22This item is in your top negative. +2

My supervisor listens to what I have to say. (Q. 22) 88 89This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

4 6 +1

Managers promote communication among different work units (for example, about 

projects, goals, needed resources). (Q. 29) 63 64 13 22This item is in your top negative. +1

Decision Aid: Increases
10

Decision Aid: Decreases

Identifying Decreases Since 2019

The items in this section are sorted by greatest to smallest decrease in percent positive results. The items are sorted 

to allow you to quickly and easily identify where results have dropped since last year. 

Using the Legend Icons

The legend icons provide context for interpreting these results. When identifying the most critical decreases to focus 

on, it is important to check if these decreases are also identified as challenges (35% or more negative) or if they were 

previously identified as strengths that have fallen below the 65% or more positive threshold. The “Top Pos/Neg” 

icons highlight where an item is either in the top 10 positive items or top 10 negative items for your agency.

6 Items Decreased Since 2019

Strength

These items are 

65 percent positive 

or higher

Caution

These items are 

30 percent neutral 

or higher

Challenge

These items are 

35 percent negative 

or higher

Past Strength

These items are no 

longer a strength 

in 2020

Top Pos/Neg

These items are in 

your top positive 

or top negative

+

–

Item

2019

Positive

2020 

Positive

2020 

Neutral

2020 

Negative

Decrease 

Since 2019

My work gives me a feeling of personal accomplishment. (Q. 3) 75 70This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 13 18 -5

I am given a real opportunity to improve my skills in my organization. (Q. 1) 79 74This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 14 12 -5

Employees are protected from health and safety hazards on the job. (Q. 15) 94 90This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

4 6 -4

I can disclose a suspected violation of any law, rule or regulation without fear 

of reprisal. (Q. 8) 81 79This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 4 17 -2

My supervisor supports my need to balance work and other life issues. (Q. 19) 94 93This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

4 3 -1

My supervisor treats me with respect. (Q. 23) 95 94This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

5 1 -1

Note: The Decision Aid only includes core items (items 1-38, excluding item 11) that carried over from the 2019 OPM FEVS. See Appendix C for a breakdown of the Work-Life 

results for your agency.

Decision Aid: Decreases
11

Decision Aid: No Change

Identifying Items That Have Not Changed Since 2019

Your percent positive results for these items have not changed since last year. These are items that your agency is 

maintaining, which can be either a positive, neutral, or negative finding. For example, an item with low percent positive 

results over several years is a strong indication of a need for focused action. You may also want to consider changing 

or updating your approach to addressing these issues if the item has been the focus of attention in the past. On the 

other hand, a trend of stable, high percent positive results is a finding that should be celebrated. Review each item 

carefully to determine whether there may be areas of concern for your agency.

Using the Legend Icons

The legend icons provide context for interpreting results. While these items have not increased or decreased, they still 

may be causes for celebration or concern depending on the percent positive, negative, and neutral results. The “Top 

Pos/Neg” icons highlight where an item is either in the top 10 positive items or top 10 negative items for your agency.

0 Items Did Not Change Since 2019

Decision Aid: No Change
12

Appendix A: Item Results and Benchmarks

For each item, your agency’s percent positive results are shown on a 0 to 100 scale, with the triangular arrow 

indicating where your agency falls. The gray bars represent the range of scores for the 42 small agencies surveyed 

that had 10 or more respondents. 

To understand how well your agency performed compared to other small agencies, focus on the location of the 

triangle within the gray bar. If the triangle is toward the right side of the bar, then your agency was above average 

on that item. If it is at the right edge of the bar, then you had the highest percent positive results for that item. 

Additionally, you can numerically compare your percent positive results to the combined small agency average, 

listed to the right of each item. 

My Work Experience

Item

Item Benchmarks

2020 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 ‡1. I am given a real opportunity to improve my skills in my 

organization.

Low 49%; Your Agency 74%; High 93%.

74%

 2. I feel encouraged to come up with new and better ways 

of doing things.

Low 58%; Your Agency 61%; High 94%.

71%

 3. My work gives me a feeling of personal accomplishment.

Low 68%; Your Agency 70%; High 96%.

79%

 4. I know what is expected of me on the job.

Low 70%; Your Agency 78%; High 100%.

84%

 ‡5. My workload is reasonable.

Low 29%; Your Agency 72%; High 100%.

68%

 ‡6. My talents are used well in the workplace.

Low 58%; Your Agency 76%; High 85%.

69%

 ‡7. I know how my work relates to the agency’s goals.

Low 73%; Your Agency 86%; High 100%.

89%

 ‡8. I can disclose a suspected violation of any law, rule or regulation 

without fear of reprisal.

Low 25%; Your Agency 79%; High 100%.

67%

0 Low High 100

DNFSB

74%

61%

70%

78%

72%

76%

86%

79%

Note: Items included on the Annual Employee Survey are noted by a double dagger (‡).

Appendix A: Item Results and Benchmarks
13

Appendix A: Item Results and Benchmarks (continued)

My Work Unit

Item

Item Benchmarks

2020 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 ‡9. The people I work with cooperate to get the job done.

Low 69%; Your Agency 88%; High 100%.

87%

 10. In my work unit, steps are taken to deal with a poor performer 

who cannot or will not improve.

Low 33%; Your Agency 56%; High 89%.

51%

 11. See Performance Section

 ‡12. In my work unit, differences in performance are recognized 

in a meaningful way.

Low 33%; Your Agency 61%; High 90%.

56%

 ‡13. My work unit has the job-relevant knowledge and skills 

necessary to accomplish organizational goals.

Low 63%; Your Agency 82%; High 100%.

86%

0 Low High 100

DNFSB

88%

56%

61%

82%

Note: Items included on the Annual Employee Survey are noted by a double dagger (‡).

Performance

Item

2020

Agency

2020 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 11. In my work unit, poor performers usually:

Remain in the work unit and improve their performance over time 25% 20%

Remain in the work unit and continue to underperform 44% 35%

Leave the work unit - removed or transferred 7% 9%

Leave the work unit - quit 2% 4%

There are no poor performers in my work unit 23% 33%

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix A: Item Results and Benchmarks
14

Appendix A: Item Results and Benchmarks (continued)

My Agency

Item

Item Benchmarks

2020 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 14. Employees are recognized for providing high quality products 

and services.

Low 36%; Your Agency 74%; High 94%.

70%

 15. Employees are protected from health and safety hazards 

on the job.

Low 54%; Your Agency 90%; High 100%.

85%

 16. My agency is successful at accomplishing its mission.

Low 45%; Your Agency 71%; High 100%.

83%

 ‡17. I recommend my organization as a good place to work.

Low 35%; Your Agency 62%; High 100%.

73%

 ‡18. I believe the results of this survey will be used to make 

my agency a better place to work.

Low 30%; Your Agency 43%; High 91%.

54%

0 Low High 100

DNFSB

74%

90%

71%

62%

43%

Note: Items included on the Annual Employee Survey are noted by a double dagger (‡).

My Supervisor

Item

Item Benchmarks

2020 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 19. My supervisor supports my need to balance work and other 

life issues.

Low 63%; Your Agency 93%; High 100%.

89%

 20. My supervisor is committed to a workforce representative of all 

segments of society.

Low 63%; Your Agency 81%; High 100%.

82%

 21. Supervisors in my work unit support employee development.

Low 61%; Your Agency 90%; High 100%.

83%

 22. My supervisor listens to what I have to say.

Low 70%; Your Agency 89%; High 100%.

86%

 23. My supervisor treats me with respect.

Low 70%; Your Agency 94%; High 100%.

88%

 24. I have trust and confidence in my supervisor.

Low 61%; Your Agency 83%; High 100%.

79%

 25. Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by your 

immediate supervisor?

Low 64%; Your Agency 86%; High 100%.

82%

0 Low High 100

DNFSB

93%

81%

90%

89%

94%

83%

86%

Appendix A: Item Results and Benchmarks
15

Appendix A: Item Results and Benchmarks (continued)

Leadership

Item

Item Benchmarks

2020 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 26. In my organization, senior leaders generate high levels of 

motivation and commitment in the workforce.

Low 31%; Your Agency 43%; High 93%.

55%

 27. My organization's senior leaders maintain high standards of 

honesty and integrity.

Low 23%; Your Agency 59%; High 100%.

62%

 ‡28. Managers communicate the goals of the organization.

Low 35%; Your Agency 70%; High 97%.

70%

 29. Managers promote communication among different work units 

(for example, about projects, goals, needed resources).

Low 37%; Your Agency 64%; High 92%.

61%

 30. Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by the 

manager directly above your immediate supervisor?

Low 23%; Your Agency 58%; High 100%.

69%

 31. I have a high level of respect for my organization’s senior leaders.

Low 36%; Your Agency 54%; High 100%.

63%

 32. Senior leaders demonstrate support for Work-Life programs.

Low 25%; Your Agency 90%; High 100%.

74%

0 Low High 100

DNFSB

43%

59%

70%

64%

58%

54%

90%

Note: Items included on the Annual Employee Survey are noted by a double dagger (‡).

Appendix A: Item Results and Benchmarks
16

Appendix A: Item Results and Benchmarks (continued)

My Satisfaction

Item

Item Benchmarks

2020 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 ‡33. How satisfied are you with your involvement in decisions that 

affect your work?

Low 34%; Your Agency 52%; High 93%.

61%

 ‡34. How satisfied are you with the information you receive from 

management on what’s going on in your organization?

Low 36%; Your Agency 63%; High 100%.

63%

 ‡35. How satisfied are you with the recognition you receive for 

doing a good job?

Low 38%; Your Agency 58%; High 93%.

64%

 ‡36. Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your job?

Low 51%; Your Agency 67%; High 100%.

75%

 37. Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your pay?

Low 30%; Your Agency 84%; High 100%.

68%

 ‡38. Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your 

organization?

Low 42%; Your Agency 57%; High 93%.

70%

0 Low High 100

DNFSB

52%

63%

58%

67%

84%

57%

Note: Items included on the Annual Employee Survey are noted by a double dagger (‡).

COVID-19 Pandemic

 39 - 57. (See Appendix B)

Appendix A: Item Results and Benchmarks
17

Appendix A: Item Results and Benchmarks (continued)

Work-Life

Item

Item Benchmarks

2020 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 58. How satisfied are you with the Telework program in your agency? 

Low 71%; Your Agency 89%; High 100%.

84%

 59. Which of the following Work-Life programs have you participated in or used at your agency within the last 12 months? (See Appendix C) 

 60 - 64. How satisfied are you with the following Work-Life programs in your agency? 

 60. Alternative Work Schedules (for example, compressed 

work schedule, flexible work schedule)

Low 48%; Your Agency 90%; High 100%.

86%

 61. Health and Wellness Programs (for example, onsite exercise, 

flu vaccination, medical screening, CPR Training, health and 

wellness fair)

Low 26%; Your Agency 70%; High 100%.

72%

 62. Employee Assistance Program – EAP (for example, short-term 

counseling, referral services, legal services, education services)

Low 31%; Your Agency 73%; High 82%.

56%

 63. Child Care Programs (for example, child care center, 

parenting classes and support groups, back-up care, 

subsidy, flexible spending account)

Low 0%; Your Agency 74%; High 100%.

42%

 64. Elder Care Programs (for example, elder/adult care, support 

groups, resources)

Low 0%; Your Agency 68%; High 100%.

31%

0 Low High 100

DNFSB

89%

90%

70%

73%

74%

68%

Appendix A: Item Results and Benchmarks
18

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results

Items addressing the COVID-19 Pandemic were added to the 2020 OPM FEVS in order to be responsive to the needs 

of agencies and to assess employee experiences and challenges during this unprecedented time. Your agency’s results 

are listed in this section.

When responding to the questions in this section, respondents were asked to think of their experiences during the 

COVID-19 pandemic (for much of the Federal Government, pandemic responses began in March 2020), unless 

otherwise instructed.

Background

Item

2020

Percentages

39. During the COVID-19 pandemic, on average what percentage of your work time have you been physically present at your 

agency worksite (including headquarters, bureau, field offices, etc.)? 

100% of my work time 4

At least 75% but less than 100% 2

At least 50% but less than 75% 0

At least 25% but less than 50% 5

Less than 25% 49

I have not been physically present at my agency worksite during the pandemic 40

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Item Before During Peak As of Now

40. Please select the response that BEST describes your teleworking schedule (1) BEFORE 

the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) DURING the PEAK of the pandemic, and (3) AS OF the date you 

responded to this survey: 

I telework every work day 3 88 74

I telework 3 or 4 days per week 3 12 19

I telework 1 or 2 days per week 30 0 7

I telework, but only about 1 or 2 days per month 15 0 0

I telework very infrequently, on an unscheduled or short-term basis 35 0 0

I do not telework because I have to be physically present on the job 

(e.g., law enforcement officers, TSA agent, border patrol agent, security personnel) 2 0 0

I do not telework because of technical issues (e.g., connectivity, inadequate equipment) 

that prevent me from teleworking 0 0 0

I do not telework because I did not receive approval to do so, 

even though I have the kind of job where I can telework 4 0 0

I do not telework because I choose not to telework 7 0 0

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results
19

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results (continued)

Item

2020

Percentages

41. What type(s) of leave have you used because of the pandemic? (Mark all that apply)

Leave under the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act (part of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act) 0

Annual leave 33

Sick leave 23

Weather and safety leave 1

Administrative leave 22

Other paid leave (e.g., comp time, credit hours) 18

Unpaid leave (e.g., LWOP) 0

I have not used leave because of the pandemic 53

If the response to item 41 was “I have not used leave because of the pandemic”, item 41a was skipped.

41a. During the COVID-19 pandemic, what percentage of your total work time have you used leave because of the pandemic?

100% of my work time 0

At least 75% but less than 100% 0

At least 50% but less than 75% 0

At least 25% but less than 50% 6

Less than 25% 94

42. How have you changed your participation in alternative work schedules (AWS) because of the COVID-19 pandemic? 

Examples of AWS include compressed work and flexible work schedule.

I began an alternative work schedule 8

I ended my usual alternative work schedule 0

No change because of the pandemic 92

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding. For item 41, the sum of the percentages will add to more than 100% because respondents could choose 

more than one response option.

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results
20

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results (continued)

Employee Supports

Item

Needed and 

available 

to me

Needed, but 

not available 

to me

Not 

needed 

by me now

43. How has your organization supported your well-being needs during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Expanded telework 95 0 5

Expanded work schedule flexibilities 67 0 33

Expanded leave policies 36 3 61

More information on available leave policies 52 1 47

Expanded mental health resources (e.g., assistance with stress of COVID-19) 15 3 82

Expanded physical health resources (e.g., temperature checks, COVID-19 illness testing) at my 

agency worksite 17 13 69

Timely communication about possible COVID-19 illness at my agency worksite 38 13 49

Protection of employees at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 exposure 50 4 46

Limited access to my agency worksite buildings/facilities (e.g., closures, limits on activities 

with external visitors/groups) 68 0 32

Social distancing (e.g., limits on group size, reduced access to common areas) in my agency 

worksite 61 1 37

Rearranged workspaces to maximize social distancing 32 3 65

Encouraged use of personal protective equipment (PPE) or other safety equipment in my 

agency worksite 62 7 31

Cleaning and sanitizing supplies available to reduce risk of illness in my agency worksite 58 4 37

Training for all employees on health and safety protocols 46 24 31

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results
21

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results (continued)

During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Strongly 

Agree Agree

Neither Agree 

nor Disagree Disagree

Strongly 

Disagree

44-46. My organization’s senior leaders have...

...demonstrated commitment to employee health and safety. 42 31 15 3 9

...supported policies and procedures to 

protect employee health and safety. 42 32 11 8 7

...provided effective communications about the pandemic. 29 39 16 8 9

47-49. My supervisor has...

...shown concern for my health and safety. 73 22 5 0 0

...supported my efforts to stay healthy and safe while working. 75 24 2 0 0

...created an environment where I can voice my concerns about 

staying healthy and safe. 72 23 5 0 0

Notes: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding. ”No Basis to Judge” responses were removed from these results. To see a full breakdown of responses, 

please refer to the 2020 Annual Employee Survey (AES) report.

Work Supports

Item

Needed and 

available 

to me

Needed, but 

not available 

to me

Not 

needed 

by me now

50. How has your organization supported your work during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Consistent communication (e.g., organizational status, what to expect) 77 17 6

Training for new/changed work or work processes because of the pandemic 41 22 37

Reallocation of resources (e.g., staffing, budget, materials) to support changes in work because 

of the pandemic 26 10 64

Help with commuting issues (e.g., alternatives to public transportation) 30 10 60

Options for work/business travel 24 11 65

Information on remote work policies, procedures, and expectations 83 6 11

Training on how to work remotely 29 6 65

Equipment and technology for working remotely (e.g., laptops, cell phone, Information 

Technology infrastructure) 91 1 7

Expanded collaboration tools (e.g., video conferencing, teleconferencing) 83 11 6

Expanded training for using remote work tools and applications 32 20 48

Expanded Information Technology (IT) support 60 10 30

Information about data security policies and procedures 68 11 21

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results
22

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results (continued)

Item

2020

Percentages

51. Does the type of work you do require you to be physically present at a worksite (e.g., border patrol agent, TSA agent, meat inspector)? 

Yes 9

No 75

Other 16

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Work Effects

Item

2020

Percentages

52. How disruptive has the COVID-19 pandemic been to your ability to do your work?

Extremely 1

Very 15

Somewhat 39

Slightly 31

Not at All 14

53. How have your work demands changed because of the COVID-19 pandemic?

Greatly Increased 11

Somewhat Increased 31

About the Same 52

Somewhat Decreased 6

Greatly Decreased 0

Notes: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding. ”No Basis to Judge” responses were removed from these results. To see a full breakdown of responses, 

please refer to the 2020 Annual Employee Survey (AES) report.

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results
23

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results (continued)

Item

Always

Most of 

the Time Sometimes Rarely Never

PRIOR DURING PRIOR DURING PRIOR DURING PRIOR DURING PRIOR DURING

54-55. My Work Unit...

...met / has met the needs of our customers. 50 39 44 44 5 16 1 1 0 0

...contributed / has contributed positively 

to my agency’s performance. 55 53 39 36 6 11 0 0 0 0

...produced / has produced highquality work. 55 54 41 37 3 9 2 0 0 0

...adapted / has adapted to changing priorities. 48 50 41 35 10 13 1 1 0 0

...successfully / has successfully collaborated. 50 47 40 39 6 11 4 3 0 0

...achieved / has achieved our goals. 48 38 41 45 11 14 0 3 0 0

Notes: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding. ”No Basis to Judge” responses were removed from these results. To see a full breakdown of responses, 

please refer to the 2020 Annual Employee Survey (AES) report.

Item

Strongly 

Agree Agree

Neither Agree 

nor Disagree Disagree

Strongly 

Disagree

56. In the phased return of employees to the agency worksite (i.e., opening 

up government), my organization has made employee safety a top priority. 37 33 14 10 6

57. Based on my organization’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, I believe 

my organization will respond effectively to future emergencies. 29 42 20 4 4

Notes: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding. ”No Basis to Judge” responses were removed from these results. To see a full breakdown of responses, 

please refer to the 2020 Annual Employee Survey (AES) report.

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results
24

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results (continued)

Work-Life 

Item

2020

Percentages

58-64. Work-Life Programs (See Appendix C)

65. Which of the following paid and unpaid child care arrangements have you used to perform your work 

responsibilities during the COVID-19 pandemic? (Mark all that apply) 

I do not have any child care responsibilities 71

No arrangements needed to manage child care responsibilities (e.g., older children) 3

Child care in my own home (e.g., other parent, relative, nanny, au pair) 17

Alternative work arrangement (e.g., telework, flexible work schedule) 16

Child care center 7

Paid leave 15

Unpaid leave 0

Child care in someone else’s home (e.g., relative or neighbor, professional child care provider) 3

Respite care (temporary care of a sick or disabled child, providing relief for their usual caregiver) 0

Agency emergency back-up care program 0

Resource and referral services for dependent child care 0

Other services/arrangements 0

66. Which of the following paid and unpaid elder/adult care arrangements have you used to perform your work 

responsibilities during the COVID-19 pandemic? (Mark all that apply)

I do not have any elder/adult care responsibilities 86

No arrangements needed to manage elder/adult care responsibilities (e.g., elder can manage tasks of everyday living) 5

Alternative work arrangement (e.g., telework, flexible work schedule) 5

Elder/adult day care center 0

Paid leave 7

Unpaid leave 0

Long-term care insurance 0

Respite care (temporary care of a sick or disabled adult/elder, providing relief for their usual caregiver) 0

Other services/arrangements 0

Note: The sum of the percentages will add to more than 100% because respondents could choose more than one response option.

Item Extremely Very Somewhat Slightly Not at All

67. During the COVID-19 pandemic, how disruptive have school closures/

changes been to your ability to do your work? 16 6 49 30 0

68. During the COVID-19 pandemic, how disruptive have changes to 

your children’s day care been to your ability to do your work? 18 13 47 15 6

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding. Percentages for “I do not have responsibility for school-aged children”, “I do not have responsibility for 

children who need day care“, and “Does Not Apply” are not included. 

Appendix B: COVID-19 Pandemic Results
25

Appendix C: Work-Life Programs

Appendix C displays more detailed Work-Life Program results for your agency. Use the Work-Life results to gain an 

understanding of how your Work-Life Programs are used and rated. 

Telework Status

 40. Please select the response that BEST describes your teleworking schedule. (See Appendix B)

Telework Satisfaction

Item

% 

Satisfaction

% 

All Responses

58. How satisfied are you with the Telework program in your agency?

Very Satisfied 35 35

Satisfied 54 54

Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied 8 8

Dissatisfied 1 1

Very Dissatisfied 1 1

Item Response Total 100 100

I choose not to participate in this program — 0

This program is not available to me — 0

I am unaware of this program — 0

Total 100 100

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Work-Life Program Participation

Item

2020

Percentages

59. Which of the following Work-Life programs have you participated in or used at your agency within the last 12 months? 

(Mark all that apply)

Alternative Work Schedules 42

Health and Wellness Programs 19

Employee Assistance Program – EAP 4

Child Care Programs 3

Elder Care Programs 0

None listed above 45

Note: Percents will add to more than 100% because respondents could choose more than one response option.

Appendix C: Work-Life Programs
26

Appendix C: Work-Life Programs (continued)

Work-Life Program Satisfaction

Item

% 

Satisfaction

% 

All Responses

60. How satisfied are you with the following Work-Life programs in your agency? Alternative Work Schedules 

(for example, compressed work schedule, flexible work schedule)

Very Satisfied 46 27

Satisfied 44 26

Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied 10 6

Dissatisfied 0 0

Very Dissatisfied 0 0

Item Response Total 100 59

I choose not to participate in these programs — 39

These programs are not available to me — 1

I am unaware of these programs — 0

Total 100 100

61. How satisfied are you with the following Work-Life programs in your agency? Health and Wellness Programs 

(for example, onsite exercise, flu vaccination, medical screening, CPR training, health and wellness fair)

Very Satisfied 19 11

Satisfied 51 30

Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied 16 9

Dissatisfied 14 8

Very Dissatisfied 0 0

Item Response Total 100 58

I choose not to participate in these programs — 36

These programs are not available to me — 4

I am unaware of these programs — 1

Total 100 100

62. How satisfied are you with the following Work-Life programs in your agency? Employee Assistance Program – EAP 

(for example, short-term counseling, referral services, legal services, education services)

Very Satisfied 26 7

Satisfied 47 13

Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied 27 8

Dissatisfied 0 0

Very Dissatisfied 0 0

Item Response Total 100 28

I choose not to participate in these programs — 71

These programs are not available to me — 1

I am unaware of these programs — 0

Total 100 100

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix C: Work-Life Programs
27

Appendix C: Work-Life Programs (continued)

Item

% 

Satisfaction

% 

All Responses

63. How satisfied are you with the following Work-Life programs in your agency? Child Care Programs 

(for example, child care center, parenting classes and support groups, back-up care, subsidy, flexible spending account)

Very Satisfied 13 1

Satisfied 61 6

Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied 26 3

Dissatisfied 0 0

Very Dissatisfied 0 0

Item Response Total 100 10

I choose not to participate in these programs — 61

These programs are not available to me — 16

I am unaware of these programs — 13

Total 100 100

64. How satisfied are you with the following Work-Life programs in your agency? Elder Care Programs 

(for example, elder/adult care, support groups, resources)

Very Satisfied 16 1

Satisfied 52 5

Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied 32 3

Dissatisfied 0 0

Very Dissatisfied 0 0

Item Response Total 100 9

I choose not to participate in these programs — 63

These programs are not available to me — 13

I am unaware of these programs — 15

Total 100 100

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix C: Work-Life Programs
28

Appendix D: Participating Agencies 

by Employee Population Size Categories

Very Large Agencies ( > 75,000 employees)

Department of Agriculture

Department of Defense

Department of the Army

Department of the Navy

Department of the Air Force

OSD, Joint Staff, Defense Agencies, and Field Activities (DOD 4th Estate)

Department of Health and Human Services

Department of Homeland Security

Department of Justice

Department of the Treasury

Large Agencies (10,000 – 74,999 employees)

Department of Commerce

Department of Energy

Department of Labor

Department of State

Department of the Interior

Department of Transportation

Environmental Protection Agency

General Services Administration

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Social Security Administration

Medium Agencies (1,000 – 9,999 employees)

Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency 

Department of Education

Department of Housing and Urban Development

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

Federal Communications Commission

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

Federal Trade Commission

National Archives and Records Administration

National Credit Union Administration

National Labor Relations Board

National Science Foundation

Nuclear Regulatory Commission

Office of Personnel Management

Small Business Administration

U.S. Agency for Global Media

U.S. Agency for International Development

Small Agencies (100 – 999 employees)

American Battle Monuments Commission

Commodity Futures Trading Commission

Consumer Product Safety Commission

Corporation for National and Community Service

Export-Import Bank of the United States

Farm Credit Administration

Federal Election Commission

Federal Housing Finance Agency

Federal Labor Relations Authority

Federal Maritime Commission

Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service

Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board

International Boundary and Water Commission

Merit Systems Protection Board

National Endowment for the Arts

National Endowment for the Humanities

National Gallery of Art

National Indian Gaming Commission

National Transportation Safety Board

Office of Management and Budget

Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation

Railroad Retirement Board

Selective Service System

Surface Transportation Board

U.S. International Development Finance Corporation

U.S. International Trade Commission

U.S. Office of Special Counsel

Very Small Agencies (< 100 employees)

AbilityOne Commission

African Development Foundation

Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board

Commission on Civil Rights

Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board

Farm Credit System Insurance Corporation

Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission

Institute of Museum and Library Services

Inter-American Foundation

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Marine Mammal Commission

National Capital Planning Commission

National Mediation Board

Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission

Office of Navajo and Hopi Indian Relocation

Postal Regulatory Commission

U.S. Access Board

U.S. Office of Government Ethics

U.S. Trade and Development Agency

Note: All agencies listed in the Small and Very Small categories make up the Small Agencies, Combined benchmark category, with the exception of the Office of Management 

and Budget, Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, and Railroad Retirement Board.

Appendix D: Participating Agencies by Employee Population Size Categories
United States 

Office of Personnel Management 

Office of Strategy and Innovation

1900 E Street, NW 

Washington, DC 20415

www.opm.gov/FEVS