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Tools to Attract and Retain Highly Qualified Employees
Recruitment Bonuses
Onetime payment for a newly appointed employee when it is determined that, in the absence of such a bonus, difficulty would be encountered in filling the position. Amount of bonus: Up to 25% of the employee's base pay.
Relocation Bonuses
Onetime payment for current employees only. Must be relocating to a new commuting area for at least 2 years. Amount of bonus: Up to 25% of the employee's base pay.
Retention Allowances
Payment made to a current employee whose qualifications are unusually high or unique or the agency has a special need that makes it essential that the employee be retained, AND a determination is made that the employee would be likely to leave the Federal service in the absence of the allowance. Amount of allowance: Up to 25% of the employee's base pay. Payment is included in the employee's biweekly salary payments.
Grade and Pay Retention
Available for employees who's position are reduced in grade because of reclassification, or employees placed in a lower grade because of reduction in force (RIF).
Special Salary Rates
Provides higher salary ranges for a particular occupational series, grade, and geographical area.
Superior Qualifications Appointment
Provides pay at a higher step within the grade rate range to candidates with unusually high or unique qualifications the EPA needs.
Relocation Expense
Payment may be authorized for the expenses of a new hire's travel and transportation of household goods to their first duty station.