by Jerry Pfeiffer
26. July 2009 21:08
Recently, the topic of government insourcing has been an item of keen interest among those who work in the Government and as government contractor employees. Most thoughtful people agree that certain types of positions should be filled soley by government employees. However, no one seems to have a clear answer as to exactly which positions and how many. Some interested parties, such as the Federal Acquisition Innovation and Reform Institute (FAIR) urge the Government to use restraint when making insourcing decisions. You can read FAIR's position paper by here. In an article in Washington Technology, Stan Soloway, President and CEO of the Professional Services Council (an association of government services contractors) suggests that "insourcing creates unease, especially in the Defense Department, where weak guidance has produced a sense of confusion." Mr. Soloway makes the case that "detailed guidance and discipline" is required to make an orderly insourcing program that best serves the publics' interests.
I agree that the Government should approach insourcing in a thoughtful and disclipined manner, without distrupting the award and operation of the numerous services contracts that are essential to many government programs. Nonetheless, the insourcing initiatives are creating many opportunities for those individuals who have the required skills and experience, specifically in acquisition management and support. For example, the Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast is using the Expedited Hiring Authority for Acquisition Positions, in accordance with Subsection 1705(h) of Title 10, U.S.C, as amended by section 833 of the 2009 NDAA to fill vacancies in contracting, facilities engineering, and information technology. For information on how to apply for these positions, visit the NAVFAC Southeast website.