Goldin Memo: Personnel Downsizing
AN ANNOUNCEMENT FROM NASA ADMINISTRATOR DANIEL S. GOLDIN
In response to increasing budget pressures, I have today directed NASA Headquarters to develop a plan for a staffing level of 650 to 700 employees by October 1, 1997. This accelerates the timeline for our existing downsizing plan, and will bring us to a lower staffing level. We anticipate the new plan will require a Reduction in Force at Headquarters to be completed by October of 1997.
The target date is 18 months away, but Federal personnel procedures and our own internal decision-making processes require that we begin planning for a RIF immediately. The Headquarters structure must be put in place first, in order for the NASA Centers to review their staffing needs, meet budget and program priorities, and set new staffing goals.
Last summer, Headquarters offices identified 239 positions that should be moved to the Field Centers. That process is underway, and we do not anticipate that additional positions will migrate to the Centers.
We will work over the next two and half weeks to develop restructuring plans to meet the required staffing levels. Headquarters currently employs 1,430 civil servants. The new plans will bring us to a level of 650 to 700 by October 1, 1997.
Code C will hold a briefing on RIF procedures in the auditorium at 9:00 a.m., on Tuesday, April 23. Personnel officials will be available to talk about the timeline for the Reduction in Force and RIF procedures, and to take questions from employees.
I know this is disturbing and unwelcome news. You have told me you want information about these issues in a timely fashion, whether the news is good or bad, and I’ve been listening to you. It is very important that you have the information you need to make career decisions. As the new staffing plans are developed, I will continue to keep you informed.
I am proud of the professionalism, dedication, and excellence that NASA employees demonstrate each and every day. We will work with each and every one of you to address your needs as the planning process continues.
