Are competitive service vacancies required to be posted publicly?

Competitive service vacancies are indeed required to be posted publicly as part of ensuring fair and open access to employment opportunities within the federal government. This public posting allows a broad range of candidates to view available positions and apply for them, promoting diversity and inclusivity in the federal workforce. By making vacancies publicly available, the government adheres to principles of merit-based hiring, where all qualified individuals are given the opportunity to compete for jobs.

The requirement for public posting helps establish transparency in the hiring process, which is crucial for maintaining public trust in government hiring practices. This requirement is not contingent on certain conditions or sectors but applies uniformly to all competitive service vacancies to ensure equal opportunity for all potential applicants.

Other options imply restrictions or conditions that contradict the fundamental principles of competitive service vacancies and merit-based hiring. Thus, the practice of always publicly posting these vacancies aligns with the regulatory framework that governs federal employment practices.