For Professional and Scientific Positions at GS-9 and above, which is the correct ranking order?

The correct ranking order for Professional and Scientific Positions at GS-9 and above is recognized as ICTAP eligibles, Priority consideration, and then Other eligibles.

This ranking reflects the mandated process for selecting candidates to ensure that certain groups, such as ICTAP (Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan) eligibles, receive priority during the hiring process when there are multiple qualified candidates. ICTAP eligibles are individuals who have been displaced from their careers and are seeking to be placed in federal positions, hence they are given priority to facilitate their reemployment.

Following ICTAP eligibles, individuals who are granted priority consideration typically have some form of qualifying status that entitles them to consideration before other candidates. Finally, all other eligibles represent a broader pool of candidates who do not fall into the previous two categories but are still qualified for the position.

By structuring the ranking in this way, the hiring process aligns with federal hiring preferences and policies that prioritize certain statuses and minimize the impact of workforce displacement, which is an important aspect of equitable hiring practices in federal employment.