NRAP Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the NOAA Rotational Assignment Program (NRAP)?

Answer: : NRAP is a competitive, NOAA-wide employee development program offering short-term rotational assignments to employees at all grade levels away from their regular position. NRAP offers rotational assignments in all occupational areas that support NOAA’s missions. An NRAP assignment typically last from 3 to 6 months, but may not exceed 12 months.

Question: What is the purpose of the NRAP program?

Answer: The purpose of the NRAP program is to provide rotational assignments for NOAA employees to gain knowledge, broaden skills, and enhance professional growth. Assignments are structured to provide a developmental opportunity for the participant.

Question: Why is NOAA offering this program?

Answer: NOAA is committed to promoting a corporate culture and to developing the NOAA workforce to its fullest potential. NRAP is intended to promote cross-line, cross-disciplinary experiences that broaden employees' understanding of NOAA's goals, missions, and organizational structures.

Question: Who is eligible to apply for an NRAP assignment?

Answer: NRAP is open to all NOAA federal employees in permanent, civilian positions who are in general schedule, pay band, wage grade and wage marine pay schedules. The employee must be full-time, willing to accept assignments that may require temporary mobility, and have a "meets or exceeds expectations" (or equivalent) rating during their last performance review.

Question: Do I need my supervisor's approval to participate in the NRAP program?

Answer: Yes, supervisor approval is required to participate in the NRAP program. You do not need your supervisor's approval to apply for an assignment. However, you and your supervisor will receive email confirmation that your application was received. In response to that email, your supervisor’s approval is required for your application to be considered. It is strongly recommended that you discuss your interest in applying to the NRAP program prior to submitting your application.

Question: How do I apply for an NRAP assignment?

Answer: A Call for NRAP Applications and instructions on how to apply online to assignments submitted by NOAA Line/Corporate Offices will be emailed to all NOAA employees approximately once a year.

Question: Which assignments may I apply for?

Answer: You may apply online for assignments submitted by any NOAA Line/Corporate Office. If you apply to an assignment that is not within your level of responsibility (e.g., GS11–GS12), an explanation of how the assignment will meet your learning needs should be included in your application.  

Question: How often may I participate in the NRAP program?

Answer: It is recommended that an employee participate in the NRAP program a maximum of once every 3 years. However, an employee may participate more frequently if his or her supervisor approves.

Question: Is a personnel action required to participate on an NRAP assignment?

Answer: An NRAP rotational assignment is a developmental opportunity, not a detail. As opposed to an NRAP assignment, a detail is used to fill short-term business needs and requires a personnel action (specifically an SF-50).  An NRAP assignment does NOT require an SF-50.

Question: What are my home office, my host office and my responsibilities?

Answer:

Joint Responsibilities:  The host office supervisor, the home office supervisor, and the participant jointly decide on the assignment’s length and its start and end date. 

Host Office Supervisor Responsibilities:  The host office must work with the participant to ensure a worthwhile experience, and is responsible for any travel and lodging expenses related to the assignment.  The host office supervisor is also expected to provide the home office supervisor input into the participant’s performance review(s).

Home Office Supervisor Responsibilities:  The participant’s home office must ensure coverage of the employee’s position while the participant is on assignment.  Home offices will continue to be responsible for the participant’s time and attendance, for paying salary, and for conducting performance reviews. 

Participant Responsibilities:  The participant is responsible for completing the assignment as agreed-upon, unless unusual circumstances arise.

Question: May an NRAP assignment be extended?

Answer: An NRAP assignment may be extended if, at the end of an assignment, the home and host offices agree to extend the time. However, an NRAP assignment may not exceed 12 months, including any extensions.

Question: Who do I contact if I have questions about NRAP?

Answer: Please contact your Line/Corporate Office NRAP Coordinator.