What is required for a hiring manager to select a non-preference eligible over a preference eligible?

The requirement for a hiring manager to select a non-preference eligible over a preference eligible stems from the need for a documented justification in accordance with established personnel policies. A pass-over request must be approved to ensure that the reasons for selecting a candidate without preference eligibility are both valid and compliant with federal regulations that protect preference eligibles.

This process involves a formal review, ensuring that the decision is based on merit and that it aligns with principles of fair hiring practices. The pass-over request is a mechanism that provides accountability and transparency, verifying that preference eligibles are not skipped over for arbitrary or insufficiently justified reasons. It's essential in safeguarding the rights of veterans and other preference eligibles, ensuring they receive the consideration they are entitled to.

In contrast, other options lack the necessary procedural safeguards. The sole approval of a hiring committee does not suffice since it does not involve the additional scrutiny required for bypassing preference eligibles. Similarly, stating that no specific approval is needed undermines the protective measures put in place for preference eligibles. Lastly, the condition that candidates must come from the same category does not directly address the requirements for justifying the hiring choice, as the emphasis is on the need for approval via the pass-over request.