Under category rating, how are preference eligibles treated?

Preference eligibles are treated in a way that ensures they have an advantage over non-preference eligibles during the hiring process. In the context of category rating, this means that preference eligibles must be listed ahead of non-preference eligibles when candidates are categorized based on their qualifications and scores. This prioritization is designed to acknowledge the sacrifices made by veterans and to enhance their employment opportunities within federal positions.

In a scenario where multiple candidates are assessed, preference eligibles' status reinforces the principle that their qualifications, projects, and experiences will be taken into account more favorably, resulting in them being at the forefront of the applicant pool. The intention is to recognize their service and provide them with a pathway to employment which aligns with the federal government’s commitment to veterans.

This hierarchical treatment does not imply automatic promotions, additional scoring points, or exclusion from applications. Each of those alternatives addresses different aspects of employment that are not relevant under category rating concerning preference eligibles.