Office of Personnel Management

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is the federal government’s chief human resources agency, responsible for managing the civil service workforce. Established in 1979, OPM sets policies and provides leadership on recruitment, hiring, benefits, and retirement programs across federal agencies. It plays a vital role in shaping how the government attracts and supports its employees. Learn what OPM does and how it supports the federal workforce.

Federal Hiring and Recruitment

OPM oversees merit-based hiring practices to ensure that federal jobs are filled by qualified candidates through fair and competitive processes. The agency develops hiring standards, manages examinations, and supports agencies in recruitment efforts. Despite these efforts, federal hiring faces ongoing challenges such as delays and complex procedures. Explore how federal hiring works, its difficulties, and possible improvements.

Employee Benefits and Retirement

Beyond hiring, OPM administers key benefit programs including health insurance and retirement plans that serve millions of federal employees and retirees. These programs help provide financial security and support throughout federal employees’ careers and into retirement.

Challenges and Opportunities for Improvement

OPM continues to face challenges in modernizing its systems, expediting hiring, and adapting to workforce needs in a changing government environment. Discover OPM’s recent challenges and efforts to improve its services as it works to better support federal agencies and employees.