Assessment criteria — Distinguished Specialist
P6 — Principal Professional
Canon-derived frames, not advice: every criterion is verbatim JobFrame canon or O*NET source text in a fixed frame, its labeled as observed or derived (O*NET joined at occupation-group grain for this profile). Each O*NET-sourced row also carries an score. Absent sources render as absent — nothing here is generated.
Evaluation criteria 30
01Delivers on: Shapes long-term vision for downstream manufacturing.
canon · responsibility · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
02Delivers on: Provides high-level guidance across the organization on complex technical or regulatory issues.
canon · responsibility · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
03Delivers on: Represents the company at industry consortia, standards committees, and academic collaborations.
canon · responsibility · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
04Performs to standard: Enforce safety and sanitation regulations.
O*NET task · observed · IM 4.48Rating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
05Performs to standard: Keep records of employees' attendance and hours worked.
O*NET task · observed · IM 4.23Rating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
06Performs to standard: Inspect materials, products, or equipment to detect defects or malfunctions.
O*NET task · observed · IM 4.23Rating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
07Performs to standard: Read and analyze charts, work orders, production schedules, and other records and reports to determine production requirements and to evaluate current production estimates and outputs.
O*NET task · observed · IM 4.22Rating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
08Performs to standard: Plan and establish work schedules, assignments, and production sequences to meet production goals.
O*NET task · observed · IM 4.2Rating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
09Performs to standard: Confer with other supervisors to coordinate operations and activities within or between departments.
O*NET task · observed · IM 4.15Rating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
10Performs to standard: Interpret specifications, blueprints, job orders, and company policies and procedures for workers.
O*NET task · observed · IM 4.04Rating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
11Performs to standard: Observe work and monitor gauges, dials, and other indicators to ensure that operators conform to production or processing standards.
O*NET task · observed · IM 4.02Rating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
12Performs to standard: Direct and coordinate the activities of employees engaged in the production or processing of goods, such as inspectors, machine setters, or fabricators.
O*NET task · observed · IM 4.02Rating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
13Performs to standard: Conduct employee training in equipment operations or work and safety procedures, or assign employee training to experienced workers.
O*NET task · observed · IM 4.01Rating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
14Performs to standard: Evaluate employee performance.
O*NET task · observed · IM 4Rating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
15Performs to standard: Confer with management or subordinates to resolve worker problems, complaints, or grievances.
O*NET task · observed · IM 3.99Rating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
16Effectiveness at: Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
17Effectiveness at: Record operational or production data.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
18Effectiveness at: Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
19Effectiveness at: Read work orders or other instructions to determine product specifications or materials requirements.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
20Effectiveness at: Load materials into production equipment.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
21Effectiveness at: Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
22Effectiveness at: Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
23Effectiveness at: Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
24Effectiveness at: Remove products or workpieces from production equipment.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
25Effectiveness at: Adjust temperature controls of ovens or other heating equipment.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
26Effectiveness at: Mark products, workpieces, or equipment with identifying information.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
27Effectiveness at: Align parts or workpieces to ensure proper assembly.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
28Effectiveness at: Trim excess material from workpieces.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
29Effectiveness at: Operate grinding equipment.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
30Effectiveness at: Notify others of equipment repair or maintenance needs.
O*NET work activity · observedRating frame (5-point )
- 5 · Exceeds
- — rating anchor pending —
- 3 · Meets
- — rating anchor pending —
- 1 · Below
- — rating anchor pending —
Rating anchors are completed by the rater against observed behavior — leveled anchor text lands with the next source edition.
Performance standards at this level 21
What good looks like at this level, by dimension — verbatim level and JFM rubric text, with this profile's performance metrics attached where a real keyword match exists. Work activities are O*NET-derived (basis: derived).
Scope
canon · level dimension · observedOrganization-wide architecture and the hardest problems
Autonomy
canon · level dimension · observedDefines direction; minimal oversight
Complexity
canon · level dimension · observedStrategic, open-ended problems shaping the technical future
Impact
canon · level dimension · observedOrganization-wide
Decision rights
canon · level dimension · observedSets technical strategy for a major area
Leadership
canon · level dimension · observedRecognized authority; multiplies many teams
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Record operational or production data.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Read work orders or other instructions to determine product specifications or materials requirements.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Load materials into production equipment.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Remove products or workpieces from production equipment.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Adjust temperature controls of ovens or other heating equipment.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Mark products, workpieces, or equipment with identifying information.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Align parts or workpieces to ensure proper assembly.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Trim excess material from workpieces.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Operate grinding equipment.
Work activities
O*NET work activity · derivedEffectiveness at: Notify others of equipment repair or maintenance needs.
Structured-interview dimensions
The work-style constructs a structured interview for this occupation should probe (importance-ranked). Pair with past-behavior questions and anchored rating scales — the evidence-backed format.
Level-calibrated behavioral anchors 28
Verbatim anchors from open leveled frameworks, mapped onto this profile's level (basis: derived — competency-scoped, not per-criterion). Use them to calibrate what "exceeds / meets" looks like at this level.
Creativity and Innovation
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedCreates new methods for planning, designing, and carrying out program objectives Organizes and leads cross-divisional work group in developing creative solutions to address problems Creates new units to streamline functions based on work flow analysis
External Awareness
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedProvides policy advice to officials which are consistent with local, national, and international policies and trends Reflects industry best practices in the development of agency-wide policies and procedures
Flexibility
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedAdjusts organizational priorities quickly as situations change Shifts agency goals and initiatives to align with administration and Congressional priorities
Resilience
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedResponds to setbacks by developing alternative approaches to determine the best course of action Maintains unit's effectiveness, quality, and morale during organizational change Cultivates internal and external stakeholders to develop strategies for obtaining funding from alternate sources following budget cuts
Strategic Thinking
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedLeads and directs a strategic planning team to address and outline the future direction of an organization Establishes strategic performance measures to allow the organization to continually assess and adjust program direction
Vision
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedDirects and provides guidance to managers to develop long-term strategic plan for the division Educates agency officials about new system and outlines how the long-term benefits align with agency goals Conducts workshop with employees, human resources staff, and customers to build a vision, strategy, and goals for the unit
Conflict Management
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedRecognizes conflict and takes steps to address issues by meeting with the involved parties Mitigates staff concerns regarding agency-wide issues by investigating allegations and taking appropriate action
Leveraging Diversity
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedBuilds a diverse staff with a variety of skills who function effectively to accomplish the mission of the organization Develops a creative initiative focused on recognizing the various dimensions of diversity to encourage inclusiveness in the workplace
Developing Others
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedRecommends details and developmental assignments to staff based on career interests and work unit needs Recognizes staff potential and guides employees in developing skills by recommending appropriate training and sources of information Works with staff to develop individual development plans addressing employee needs and meeting organizational goals
Team Building
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedPromotes cohesiveness of a dysfunctional team by defining roles and responsibilities of each team member and establishing overall objectives Leads teams to implement Congressional programs and interact with legislative representatives Motivates agency-wide team by assigning work based on team member skill level and area of interest
Accountability
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedProvides and promotes position information across divisions to educate staff on respective duties, performance expectations, and consequent impact on accomplishment of agency goals Holds staff accountable for new performance standards and expectations by taking action with employees not meeting standards
Customer Service
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedAnticipates growing customer needs and expectations to continuously improve product development and service delivery Creates work group consisting of stakeholders and neutral parties to develop solutions to customer service barriers
Decisiveness
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedChanges course of action despite public support when new information indicates previous strategy would not succeed Makes timely decisions using available information regarding severe operating budget reductions including possible reductions in force (RIFs)
Entrepreneurship
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedTakes calculated risks by creating new and innovative business lines Conducts research and develops business proposals resulting in a high return on investment
Problem Solving
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedSynthesizes information from internal and external sources to develop an action plan addressing program issues Addresses systemic barriers inhibiting the achievement of results by forming teams to conduct focus groups and develop solutions
Technical Credibility
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedProvides expertise in technical subject area to an organization or team Develops technical portions of agency guidelines for internal and external use Evaluates, incorporates, and communicates the latest developments in specialty area through agency guidelines and criteria Provides technical expertise in the design and implementation of agency-wide projects
Financial Management
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedDevelops and implements new procurement system to support agency program within time and budgetary constraints Ensures financial commitments and deadlines are met by facilitating and assessing processes, situations, and issues and takes corrective action, as needed Considers implications of financial decisions and suggests methods for meeting needs of staff and the organization overall Develops, justifies, and manages organization- wide budgets for annual projects and programs
Human Capital Management
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedDevelops rewards system to recognize the impact of employee contributions to the organization Identifies creative strategies to recruit employees with the required skills and qualifications, despite having limited resources Identifies mission critical occupations and associated competencies needed to perform organizational functions
Technology Management
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedImproves ability of agency to gather and act on data from stakeholders by using online surveys and related IT tools Improves agency productivity by expanding the use of existing IT applications for use by clients and staff
Partnering
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedCollaborates with headquarters, regional offices, and key stakeholders to implement new initiatives Partners with various parties by sharing information and resources across multiple levels to establish new programs
Political Savvy
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedEnsures staff understands documentation and required metrics to analyze political issues Meets with community leaders to discuss political issues and address concerns Establishes a clear vision for the organization by meeting with managers agency-wide to ensure initiatives are understood Addresses controversial political issues by conducting research and considering best practices
Influencing/Negotiating
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedNegotiates with leaders for changes to reorganization design based on feedback from subordinates Develops plan and convinces high-level agency officials to adopt approach by meeting with officials to explain points Guides a team of experts to provide advice on, and build credibility for, a multi-level negotiation process
Interpersonal Skills
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedTreats individuals from all levels of the agency with courtesy and sensitivity Meets with staff and listens to their perspective on organizational policies and procedures
Oral Communication
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedConducts presentations and briefings for high- level agency officials Presents, explains, and defends agency positions and proposals to staff and stakeholders
Integrity/Honesty
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedInstills a climate of trust by admitting own mistakes and taking responsibility for one's actions Discusses potential ethical problems and wrong- doing with employees and responds appropriately
Written Communication
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedWrites complex technical reports using clear terminology and a concise format for use by high- level decision makers Reviews technical reports, edits materials, and provides suggestions to improve clarity while ensuring documents are targeted to the intended audience
Continual Learning
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedCompletes leadership development program including training, coaching, and mentoring opportunities and applies key learnings Arranges and completes rotational assignment meeting own developmental goals and aligning with organizational strategies
Public Service Motivation
OPM Leadership Proficiency Levels · Level 4 - AdvancedPartners with community leaders to develop neighborhood action plans Cultivates relationships with community stakeholders to validate usefulness of proposed products and services
This page includes information from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. USDOL/ETA has modified all or some of this information. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.
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