Navigating the job market can feel like a long and winding road. For those seeking a career in the federal government, it often seems like that road is jam-packed with red tape. But for certain critical positions, the U.S. government has created a fast lane — and it’s called Direct Hiring Authority (DHA).
What is Direct Hiring Authority?
Simply put, DHA is an expedited hiring process that federal agencies can use when they need to fill jobs that are either in high demand or face a shortage of qualified candidates. Instead of navigating the slow-moving traditional hiring process, DHA lets agencies bypass some of the formalities and move directly to hiring qualified candidates more quickly. Think of it as the express lane at the grocery store — only here, it’s used to onboard talent that is vital to national security and public safety.
This matters for national security because positions like cybersecurity analysts, engineers, and even criminal investigators are often hard to fill, but they are absolutely essential for keeping the government’s operations running smoothly. When these roles go unfilled, our security and infrastructure are at risk. The direct hiring process lets the federal government bring in skilled workers faster, reducing the gaps in essential departments.
OPM’s Recent Move
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) recently extended DHA for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) and cybersecurity positions through 2028. Originally granted in 2018 and extended in 2023, this authority helps agencies address urgent hiring needs in rapidly evolving fields. Cybersecurity is one of the most pressing areas where skilled professionals are in high demand, and the government can’t afford to wait.
This extension also includes criminal investigation positions under the GS-1811 series (at grade levels 12-15). Whether it’s cybersecurity specialists, engineers, or even economists, these roles are critical to ensuring the security and stability of our nation’s infrastructure and economic systems. With this authority, federal agencies can quickly secure the right talent, especially in sectors that are crucial for national security.
The National Security Connection
Here’s why DHA is such a big deal for national security: Cybersecurity, STEM, and AI aren’t just buzzwords; they are integral to the security of government networks and systems. Our national defense, critical infrastructure, and intelligence agencies rely on people in these fields to keep the country safe. With President Biden’s executive order on artificial intelligence, for example, there’s been a hiring surge in AI-related jobs across the federal government. These professionals are working on everything from securing sensitive data to developing advanced technologies that will keep the U.S. ahead in global defense.
The stakes are high, and the federal government can’t afford to have a lengthy hiring process when crucial positions remain open. DHA ensures that agencies have the agility to onboard the talent they need without unnecessary delays.
Going From Government Contractor to the Federal Government
DHA doesn’t just benefit federal agencies—it’s also a game changer for candidates, especially those moving between government contractors and direct federal employment. Many talented professionals work for government contractors, gaining essential experience in defense, intelligence, and cybersecurity. However, making the leap to a direct federal position can be tough, given the traditional hiring bureaucracy.
With DHA in place, qualified candidates can move more easily into federal jobs that align with their experience. This flexibility is key because it creates a more fluid talent pipeline, allowing skilled workers to move where they’re needed most — whether that’s with a contractor or working directly for the government. As national security threats evolve, it’s critical to have a system in place that gets the right people into the right positions at the right time. DHA makes that possible.
Why DHA Matters
DHA is about cutting through the red tape to solve critical hiring needs in positions that keep the country safe. Whether you’re a cybersecurity expert, an AI whiz, or an engineer, DHA could be the key to landing your next job with the federal government — and helping protect national security in the process.
As the world of national defense and intelligence grows more complex, the ability to quickly hire top talent has never been more important. The recent extension of DHA for STEM, cybersecurity, and AI positions through 2028 shows that the government is serious about staying ahead of the curve. If you’re someone looking to make a real impact on national security, DHA could be your fast track to a meaningful career.
