JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the Department of Defense works to adjust its policies to keep everyone safe while meeting mission requirements.
The Civilian Personnel Office here is responsible for hiring, managing, and assisting civilian employees for the Air Force.
“We’re here for civilians, managers, commanders and other military members,” said Catherine Manley, Civil Personnel Office civil personnel officer. “We protect employees’ rights, commands’ rights, and keep employees safe while still making sure the mission gets accomplished.”
The CPO is responsible for all the civilians that are general schedule employees, wage grade, and general grade. CPO is not responsible for civilians that are employed by organizations such as the Army and Air Force Exchange Service as well as non-appropriated fund employees.
When the COVID-19 pandemic began, the CPO quickly adapted to assist the civilians and management they service.
“Recruitment did not stop for anyone, there was never a hiring freeze,” said Leslie Bryant, CPO staffing chief. “We had to come up with solutions for new hired employees so they could get set up with their organizations.”
The CPO created a virtual in-processing procedure to assist new employees, while remaining open for in-person appointments as well.
For teleworking capabilities, the CPO acquired laptops and trained on how to telework. This also meant updating current policy and guidance for civilians to adapt to telework during COVID-19.
“There’s so much involved in those decisions, processes, and policies such as when and how we can do it,” said Manley.
One of the biggest changes to policy involves childcare and telework. Previous policy did not allow for childcare and telework.
The civilians at the CPO worked hard to create an office space that allows for them to continue their job with social distancing, hand sanitizer stations, rotating schedules, plexiglass dividers, and more.
“We haven't closed down,” said Bryant. “We've been open since day one of COVID with incorporating social distancing and telework.”
A goal of the CPO is to educate DOD members, military and civilian alike, on the roles and correct policies surrounding civilian employees, especially during COVID-19.
“Any questions or guidance, we’re here for you,” said Bryant.
The CPO can be contacted at (808)-449-0100, (808) 449-0122, or at 647fss.fsmc@us.af.mil.