This procedure applies to applicants who were never previously appointed to a career or career-conditional position. This process begins with a vacancy announcement issued by either OPM, or by a Federal agency with examining authority delegated to them by OPM and operating under OPM administrative supervision. The announcement will state that non status applicants may apply. The announcement will be posted on the OPM USA jobs web site. Applicants are evaluated against the Qualification Standards for the position, and given a numerical rating reflecting their qualifications.
Veterans receive extra points added to their score.
Candidates referred on OPM certificates are ranked by score and veterans preference . Normally, at least three candidates are referred, with additional candidates if more than one vacancy is being filled. This means that selection must be made from the top three candidates on the certificate, keeping in mind that a candidate with veterans preference cannot be bypassed to select a candidate with no preference, unless adequately justified on security or suitability grounds. OPM approves the passover of veterans on all certificates that they issue. Standing registers allow a regional OPM to accept applications for particular skills on a continuous basis to effectively meet the recurring recruitment needs of Federal agencies in that region.