Is there a policy or regulation that explains who has authority in a staff section, when it comes to an Officer vs. GS Civilian?

LTC Mark Leighton — Thu, 19 Dec 2019 13:38:49 -0500

In a USAR Command, an AGR (full time) Major is the senior officer in the Command's G-1.
A GS-11 Civilian in the G-1 will "release the Soldiers for the day," without speaking to the Major. When asked by the Major why, the GS-11 stated they were in charge of the Soldiers, not the Major... to which the issue became escalated. The Major reached out to me for input, but it's been awhile since I've been in that realm. Appreciate all input, especially Policy or Regulations, that will help in this matter. Thanks!

Response by MSG Gary Eckert made Dec 19 at 2019 3:22 PM

MSG Gary Eckert — Thu, 19 Dec 2019 15:22:25 -0500

Generally, there is not direct correlation between GS and Military. There is a tables the approximate but even then it really depends on position. For instance in my office we have had GS12s supervise MAJs and vice versa over the years. I guess best answer in most cases in who is the rater for the soliders. If the GS11 rates the soldiers, then the MAJ should hold the GS11s feet to the fire for completing the mission but the GS11 should determine the Solider's work hours.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 20 at 2019 9:33 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 09:33:31 -0500

Having worked in offices with all civilians, it depends.

Who rates who? Does the 11 rate the Soldiers? Who rates the 11? Who rates the MAJ and Who does the MAJ rate?

Most likely this isn't cut and dry or this wouldn't be an issue. This will continue to be a problem if it isn't rectified with the GS-11s Supervisor. Roles and responsibilities need to be clearly defined by the command.

Response by MAJ Michael Cummings made Dec 20 at 2019 10:31 AM

MAJ Michael Cummings — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 10:31:10 -0500

My last unit was the equivalent to a division level unit but in the USAR. There was an O6 which was the actual G1 and a GS-something. The GSer was there for the day to day stuff while the O6 was was the actual G1. The O6 was also the go to war position where the GSer was for rear operations. You would have to refer to the MTOE/TDA to find out.

You cannot go by rating schemes in USAR as I have seen them put together on the fly and not really relate to the MTOE/TDA. Right or wrong, it is what it is.