RPES – Assisting Your ScientistsJL 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 is given in 431.3M – not static!

• Four 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