Jefferson Lab Workforce Reduction: Voluntary Resignation Program FAQ

What is Jefferson Lab’s workforce reduction plan?

Jefferson Lab is seeking voluntary resignations to reduce its workforce by approximately 7%, which amounts to roughly 65 positions, with severance payments of up to $50,000 available for eligible employees.

Why is Jefferson Lab implementing this workforce reduction?

According to Director Jens Dilling, the move is driven by the need to restructure rather than federal budget cuts, aiming to enhance the lab’s capabilities to do more research.

How much severance pay can employees receive?

Employees who choose to leave voluntarily may be eligible for severance payments of up to $50,000, with specific payouts determined by individual performance and tenure.

When is the deadline for employees to apply for voluntary resignation?

Staff members have until August 26 to apply for the voluntary resignation program.

What happens if Jefferson Lab doesn’t meet its reduction target through voluntary resignations?

If the lab doesn’t meet its 7% reduction target through voluntary resignations, it plans to implement layoffs by January.

Who is involved in this workforce reduction?

The Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (Jefferson Lab) employees are affected, with the Department of Energy being the contracting agency under which the lab operates.

Where is Jefferson Lab located?

Jefferson Lab is based in Newport News and is one of the nation’s premier nuclear physics research centers that advances particle accelerator technology.

What is the reconsideration period for employees who opt into the program?

Each employee has an eight-day window to reconsider their decision once they opt into the voluntary resignation program.

How will Jefferson Lab decide which voluntary resignations to approve?

The laboratory will weigh an employee’s skill set and the potential impact of their departure before approving any separation under the voluntary program.