Air Force to implement civilian hiring freeze

The Air Force Aug. 12 said it would immediately begin a 90-day civilian hiring freeze, effective immediately. The intent of the move is “to quickly reduce civilian strength levels to budgetary limits,” the Air Force said.

The department also said it planned to use a voluntary separation incentive program, as well as a voluntary early retirement authority, to trim its temporary and term workforce. Officials said they expected the actions to affect “all major commands, direct reporting units and field operation agencies.”

“We are operating in a very challenging fiscal environment and are focused on meeting mission requirements with a reduced budget,” said Lt. Gen. Darrell Jones, deputy chief of staff for manpower, personnel and services. “We are mindful of the potential impacts of budget constraints on our civilian force and their families, which is why we are seeking to reduce the need for involuntary measures.”