ARMY DIR 2026-18 — Modern Civilian Workforce Management
ARMY DIR 2026-18 governs Army civilian human resource management policies for performance, adverse actions, awards, incentives, and modernization efforts.
- Publication number: ARMY DIR 2026-18
- Title: MODERN CIVILIAN WORKFORCE MANAGEMENT
- Date: 07/07/2026
- Proponent: ASA (M&RA)
- Status: ACTIVE
View ARMY DIR 2026-18 on armypubs.army.mil
The directive establishes requirements for addressing unacceptable performance, including proposed removals, response periods, deciding officials, and penalties. It also addresses voluntary separation incentives, early retirement authority, and individualized deferred resignation programs.
Applies to: The provisions of this directive apply to Department of the Army (DA) Civilians working for the Regular Army, U.S. Army Reserve, and Army National Guard/Army National Guard of the United States.
Topics covered
- Civilian performance management
- Adverse actions
- Unacceptable performance removals
- Voluntary separation incentives
- Voluntary early retirement authority
- Individualized deferred resignation programs
Questions and answers
How quickly must supervisors propose removal for NAF employees with unsatisfactory performance?
Supervisors should propose removal for employees with unsatisfactory performance. (paragraph 4)
How long does the servicing personnel office have to respond to a proposed removal request?
The servicing personnel office, in coordination with the servicing legal office, has 10 calendar days to respond and provide advice on the sufficiency of the supporting documentation and further assistance, as needed. (paragraph 4)
How long do employees have to respond to a proposed notice of removal?
Employees will have 7 calendar days to respond orally and/or in writing to a proposed notice of removal, or as consistent with collective bargaining agreements (CBAs). (paragraph 4)
How senior can a deciding official be in an unacceptable performance case?
Deciding officials will be no more senior than two levels above the supervisor in the reporting chain or a designated individual in the Command outside of the rating chain. (paragraph 4)
Can suspensions replace removals when removal is warranted?
Suspensions should not be substituted for removals to the extent removal is warranted. (paragraph 2)