DOE-STD-1178-2004, Technical Program Manager Functional Area Qualification Standard
Functional areas: Technical Qualification Program
The Technical Program Manager Functional Area Qualification Standard establishes common functional area competency requirements for Department of Energy personnel who provide assistance, direction, guidance, oversight, or evaluation of contractor technical activities that could impact the safe operation of DOE’s defense nuclear facilities.
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Section 1
DOE–STD–1178-2004
February 2004
DOE STANDARD
TECHNICAL PROGRAM MANAGER
FUNCTIONAL AREA
QUALIFICATION STANDARD
DOE Defense Nuclear Facilities Technical Personnel
U.S. Department of Energy AREA TRNG
Washington, D.C. 20585
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
NOT MEASUREMENT
SENSITIVE
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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This document has been reproduced directly from the best available copy.
Available to DOE and DOE contractors from ES&H Technical Information Services, U.S.
Department of Energy, (800) 473–4375, fax: (301) 903-9823.
Available to the public from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Technology
Administration, National Technical Information Service, Springfield, VA 22161;
(703) 605–6000.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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APPROVAL
The Federal Technical Capability Panel consists of senior U.S. Department of Energy managers
responsible for overseeing the Federal Technical Capability Program. This Panel is responsible
for reviewing and approving the Qualification Standard for Department-wide application. Approval
of this Qualification Standard by the Federal Technical Capability Panel is indicated by signature
below.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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DOE-STD-1178-2004
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGMENT ......................................................................................................................vi
PURPOSE........................................................................................................................................ 1
APPLICABILITY................................................................................................................................ 1
IMPLEMENTATION........................................................................................................................... 2
EVALUATION REQUIREMENTS....................................................................................................... 3
CONTINUING EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND PROFICIENCY ............................................................ 3
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES..................................................................................................... 3
BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE.................................................................................................. 4
REQUIRED TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES....................................................................................... 4
APPENDIX A, CONTINUING EDUCATION, TRAINING AND PROFICIENCY PROGRAM................... 19
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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DOE-STD-1178-2004
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ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) Nevada Site Office (NSO) is the Sponsor for
the Technical Program Manager (TPM) Qualification Standard. The Sponsor is responsible for
coordinating the development and/or review of the Functional Area Qualification Standard by
subject matter experts to ensure that the technical content of the standard is accurate and
adequate for Department-wide application for those involved in the Technical Program Manager
Program. The Sponsor, in coordination with the Federal Technical Capability Panel, is also
responsible for ensuring that the Functional Area Qualification Standard is maintained current.
The following subject matter experts (SMEs) participated in the development and/or review of this
Qualification Standard:
Section 2
Stephen Mellington NNSA Nevada Site Office (Team Leader)
Lisa Mueller NNSA Nevada Site Office
Clayton Barrow NNSA Nevada Site Office
Deborah Manning NNSA Nevada Service Center
Craig West Office of Training and Human Resource Department
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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DOE-STD-1178-2004
1
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
FUNCTIONAL AREA QUALIFICATION STANDARD
Technical Program Manager
PURPOSE
DOE M 426.1-1, Federal Technical Capability Manual, commits the Department to continuously
strive for technical excellence. The Technical Qualification Program, along with the supporting
Technical Qualification Standards, complements the personnel processes that support the
Department's drive for technical excellence. In support of this goal, the competency requirements
defined in the Technical Qualification Standards should be aligned with and integrated into the
recruitment and staffing processes for technical positions. The Technical Qualification Standards
should form the primary basis for developing vacancy announcements, qualification requirements,
crediting plans, interviewing questions, and other criteria associated with the recruitment, selection,
and internal placement of technical personnel. Office of Personnel Management minimum
qualifications standards will be greatly enhanced by application of appropriate materials from the
technical Functional Area Qualification Standards.
The Technical Qualification Standards are not intended to replace the U.S. Office of Personnel
Management (OPM) Qualifications Standards nor other Departmental personnel standards, rules,
plans, or processes. The primary purpose of the Technical Qualification Program is to ensure that
employees have the requisite technical competency to support the mission of the Department. The
Technical Qualification Program forms the basis for the development and assignment of DOE
personnel responsible for ensuring the safe operation of defense nuclear facilities.
APPLICABILITY
The Technical Program Manager Functional Area Qualification Standard establishes common
functional area competency requirements for Department of Energy personnel who provide
assistance, direction, guidance, oversight, or evaluation of contractor technical activities that could
impact the safe operation of DOE’s defense nuclear facilities. The technical Functional Area
Qualification Standard has been developed as a tool to assist DOE Program and Field office sin
the development and implementation of the Technical Qualification Program in their organization.
For ease of transportability of qualifications between DOE elements, Program and Field offices are
expected to use this technical Functional Area Qualification Standard without modification or
additions. Needed additional office/site/facility specific technical competencies should be handled
separately. Satisfactory and documented attainment of the competency requirements contained in
this technical Functional Area Qualification Standard ensures that personnel possess the requisite
competence to fulfill their functional area duties and responsibilities. Office/Facility-Specific
Qualification Standards supplement this technical Functional Area Qualification Standard and
establish unique operational competency requirements at the Headquarters or Field element, site,
or facility level.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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IMPLEMENTATION
Section 3
This technical Functional Area Qualification Standard identifies the minimum technical competency
requirements for Department of Energy personnel. Although there are other competency
requirements associated with the positions held by DOE personnel, this Functional Area
Qualification Standard is limited to identifying the specific technical competencies. The
competency statements define the expected knowledge and/or skill that an individual must meet.
Each of the competency statements is further explained by a listing of supporting knowledge and/or
skill statements.
The competencies identify a familiarity level, a working level, or an expert level of knowledge; or
they require the individual to demonstrate the ability to perform a task or activity. These levels are
defined as follows:
Familiarity level is defined as basic knowledge of or exposure to the subject or process
adequate to discuss the subject or process with individuals of greater knowledge.
Working level is defined as the knowledge required to monitor and assess
operations/activities, to apply standards of acceptable performance, and to reference
appropriate materials and/or expert advice as required to ensure the safety of Departmental
activities.
Expert level is defined as a comprehensive, intensive knowledge of the subject or process
sufficient to provide advice in the absence of procedural guidance.
Demonstrate the ability is defined as the actual performance of a task or activity in
accordance with policy, procedures, guidelines, and/or accepted industry or Department
practices.
Headquarters and Field elements shall establish a program and process to ensure that DOE
personnel possess the competencies required of their position. That includes the competencies
identified in this technical Functional Area Qualification Standard. Documentation of the
completion of the requirements of the Standard shall be included in the employee's training and
qualification record.
Equivalencies should be used sparingly with the utmost rigor and scrutiny to maintain the spirit and
intent of the TQP. Equivalencies may be granted for individual competencies based upon objective
evidence of previous education, training, certification, or experience. Objective evidence includes
a combination of transcripts, certifications, and, in some cases, a knowledge sampling through a
written and/or oral examination. Equivalencies shall be granted in accordance with the Technical
Qualification Program Plan of the office qualifying the individual. The supporting knowledge and/or
skill statements, while not requirements, should be considered before granting equivalency for a
competency.
Training shall be provided to employees in the Technical Qualification Program who do not meet
the competencies contained in the technical Functional Area Qualification Standard. Training may
include, but is not limited to, formal classroom and computer based courses, self-study, mentoring,
on-the-job training, and special assignments. Departmental training will be based upon
appropriate supporting knowledge and/or skill statements similar to the ones listed for each of the
competency statements. Headquarters and Field elements should use the supporting knowledge
and/or skill statements as a basis for evaluating the content of any training used to provide
individuals with the requisite knowledge and/or skill required to meet the technical Functional Area
Qualification Standard competency statements.
Section 4
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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EVALUATION REQUIREMENTS
Attainment of the competencies listed in this technical Functional Area Qualification Standard
should be documented by a qualifying official, immediate supervisor, or the team leader of
personnel in accordance with the Technical Qualification Program Plan of the office qualifying the
individual.
CONTINUING EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND PROFICIENCY
DOE personnel shall participate in continuing education and training as necessary to improve their
performance and proficiency and ensure that they stay up-to-date on changing technology and
new requirements. This may include courses and/or training provided by:
• Department of Energy
• Other government agencies
• Outside vendors
• Educational institutions
Beyond formal classroom or computer-based courses, continuing training may include
• Self Study
• Attendance at symposia, seminars, exhibitions
• Special assignments
• On-the-job experience
A description of suggested learning proficiency activities and the requirements for the continuing
education and training program for Safety Software Quality Assurance personnel are included in
Appendix A of this document.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The following are the typical duties and responsibilities expected of personnel assigned to the
Technical Program Manager Functional Area:
1. Manage and coordinate activities associated with assigned programmatic responsibility.
2. Develop, review, and endorse budget requests to accomplish program goals and
objectives.
3. Develop, review, and endorse program plans to support the accomplishment of mission
objectives in a safe, efficient, and effective manner.
4. Continuously monitor and evaluate cost, schedule, and the completion of programmatic
goals and milestones in accordance with approved plans.
5. Continuously monitor program activities in the field and ensure that the deliverables and
outcomes associated with a program are technically adequate.
6. Prepare reports and make presentations to reflect overall program status, cost and funding
issues, resource requirements, adherence to schedules and milestones, and other program
issues.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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7. Maintain effective communication with Headquarters, field elements, regulatory agencies,
the public, and other stakeholders to accomplish program goals.
8. Ensure that safety is integrated into management and work practices to accomplish
program objectives and ensure worker and public health and safety.
9. Ensure that related nuclear and environmental regulations and requirements are integrated
into program plans and activities to protect personnel, the facility, and the environment.
10. Ensure that programs comply with Departmental Directives, Federal and State Regulations,
and other binding agreements.
Position-specific duties and responsibilities for Technical Program Manager personnel are
contained in their Office/Facility-Specific Qualification Standard or Position Description.
BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE
The U. S. Office of Personnel Management's Qualification Standards Handbook establishes
minimum education, training, experience, or other relevant requirements applicable to a particular
occupational series/grade level, as well as alternatives to meeting specified requirements.
The preferred education and experience for Technical Program Manager personnel are:
1. Education:
Bachelor of Science degree in engineering, science, or a related discipline or meeting the
alternative requirements specified for engineers, or scientists in the OPM Qualification
Standards Handbook.
Section 5
2. Experience:
Industrial, military, federal, state or other directly related background that has provided
specialized experience in Technical Program Management. Specialized experience can be
demonstrated through possession of the competencies outlined in this Standard.
REQUIRED TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES
The competencies contained in this Standard are distinct from those competencies contained in
the General Technical Base Qualification Standard. All Technical Program Manager personnel
must satisfy the competency requirements of the General Technical Base Qualification Standard
prior to or in parallel with the competency requirements contained in this Standard. Each of the
competency statements defines the level of expected knowledge and or skill that an individual must
posses to meet the intent of this Standard. The supporting knowledge and/or skill statements
further describe the intent of the competency statements.
Note: When regulations or Department of Energy directives or other industry standards are
referenced in the Qualification Standard, the most recent revision should be used.
GENERAL TECHNICAL
1. Technical Program Manager personnel shall have a working level knowledge of
the roles and responsibilities for the Integrated Safety Management System and
the Department’s philosophy and approach to implementing integrated safety
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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management (ISM).
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Describe the overall objective of the Department-wide Functions and
Responsibilities Manual and the similar lower-tier organization-level manuals
developed by Headquarters Offices and Field Elements.
b. Explain the objective of integrated safety management.
c. Describe how the seven Guiding Principles in the Integrated Safety Management
Plan are used to implement an integrated safety management philosophy.
d. Describe the five core safety management functions in the Integrated Safety
Management Plan and discuss how they provide the necessary structure for work
activities.
e. Identify and discuss existing Department programs and initiatives that lead to
successful implementation of integrated safety management such as:
• Standards/Requirements Identification Documents (S/RIDs) and Work Smart
Standards;
• Contract reform and performance-based contracting;
• Research and development laboratory activities related to safety management;
• Operational Readiness Reviews (ORR);
• Nuclear Explosive Safety and Surety Program;
• Voluntary protection;
• ISO 14000; and
• Environmental laws and regulations.
f. Discuss the purpose, content, and application of DOE Policy 450.4, Safety
Management System Policy.
g. Explain the basis upon which the safety management functions could differ from
facility to facility, and the basis to be used for applying ISM on a graded approach.
h. Discuss the underlying safety management issues affecting the design,
construction, operation, and maintenance of the Department’s facilities, activities,
and assets.
2. A Technical Program Manager shall have a working level knowledge of nuclear
safety management standards and documentation including their application.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Discuss the purpose, content, and philosophy, as appropriate to the position, of the
following safety management standards for nuclear facility safety authorization
basis:
• DOE Guide 424.1-1, Implementation Guide for Use In Addressing Unreviewed
Section 6
Safety Question Requirements;
• DOE Order 420.1A, Facility Safety;
• DOE Order 425.1C, Startup and Restart of Nuclear Facilities;
• DOE-STD-1027-92, Guidance on Preliminary Hazard Classification and
Accident Analysis Techniques for Compliance with DOE Order 5480.23, Nuclear
Safety Analysis Reports;
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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• DOE-STD-3006-2000, Planning and Conduct of Operational Readiness
Reviews (ORR);
• DOE-STD-3009-94, Preparation Guide for U.S. Department of Energy
Nonreactor Nuclear Facility Safety Analysis Reports;
• DOE-STD-3011-2002, Guidance for Preparation of Basis for Interim Operations
(BIO) Document; and
• DOE P 410.1A, Promulgating Nuclear Safety Requirements.
b. Discuss the purpose, content, and philosophy, as appropriate to the position, of the
following safety management standards for nuclear explosive safety:
• DOE Order 452.1B, Nuclear Explosive and Weapon Surety;
• DOE Order 452.2B, Safety of Nuclear Explosive Operation;
• DOE Order 5610.13, Joint Department of Energy/Department of Defense;
Nuclear Weapon System Safety, Security, and Control Activities; and
• DOE Order 5660.1B, Management of Nuclear Materials.
c. Describe the process for determining the applicable set of standards for operation
such as Standards/Requirements Identification Documents (S/RIDs); and Work
Smart Standards.
d. Discuss the application and implementation of the standards listed above in the
development of site and facility safety management documents.
e. Identify the conditions and procedures used to maintain and modify safety
documents.
3. A Technical Program Manager shall have a familiarity-level knowledge of DOE
Order 231.1A, Environment, Safety, and Health Reporting, and DOE Manual 231.1-2
Occurrence Reporting and Processing of Operations Information.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. State the purpose of the Order.
b. Define the following terms:
• Event;
• Condition;
• Facility;
• Notification Report;
• Occurrence Report; and
• Reportable Occurrence.
c. Discuss the Department’s policy regarding the reporting of occurrences as outlined
in the Manual.
d. State the different categories of reportable occurrences and discuss each.
e. Discuss the Department's policy regarding the reporting of occurrences as outlined
in DOE Order 231.1A, Environment, Safety, and Health Reporting, and DOE Manual
231.1-2 Occurrence Reporting and Processing of Operations Information.
4. A Technical Program Manager shall demonstrate a working level knowledge of 10
CFR 830.204, Documented Safety Analysis, with respect to its impact on
Department nuclear safety.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Discuss the four basic purposes and objectives of Documented Safety Analysis.
b. Describe the responsibilities of contractors authorized to operate defense nuclear
facilities for the development and maintenance of a Documented Safety Analysis.
c. Define the following terms and discuss the purpose of each:
• Design Basis;
• Engineering Safety Features;
• Safety Analysis;
• Safety Class;
• Safety Significant; and
• Defense in Depth.
d. Describe the requirements for the scope and content of a Documented Safety
Analysis and discuss the general content of each of the required sections of the
Analysis.
e. Discuss the approval requirements for the Documented Safety Analysis for new
facilities and subsequent changes to the Analysis. Review and evaluate a chapter
of Documented Safety Analysis. Discuss the approval requirements.
Section 7
f. Define who approves facility operations prior to achieving Documented Safety
Analysis upgrade approval.
g. Discuss the provisions for temporary and permanent exemptions from the
requirements of DOE-STD-3009-94 (Change Notice No. 2, April 2002), Preparation
Guide for U.S. Department of Energy Nonreactor Nuclear Facility Safety Analysis
Reports, and 10 CFR 830.204, Documented Safety Analysis.
h. Discuss the requirements for the contractor to maintain the Documented Safety
Analysis current.
5. A Technical Program Manager shall demonstrate a working level knowledge to
determine the existence of an unreviewed safety question (USQ) in accordance
with 10 CFR 830.203, Unreviewed Safety Question Process.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Discuss the reasons for performing an USQ determination.
b. Define the following terms:
• Accident Analyses;
• Safety Evaluation; and
• Technical Safety Requirements.
c. Describe the situations in which a safety evaluation is required.
d. Define the conditions for an USQ.
e. Describe the responsibilities of contractors authorized to operate DOE nuclear
facilities for safety evaluations.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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f. Describe the actions to be taken by a contractor upon identifying information that
indicates a potential inadequacy of a previous safety analyses or a possible
reduction in the margin of safety as defined in the Technical Safety Requirements.
g. Discuss the actions to be taken if it is determined that an USQ is involved. Given a
hypothetical situation, develop an USQ for review and evaluation.
h. Discuss the qualification and training requirements for personnel who perform
safety evaluations.
6. A Technical Program Manager shall demonstrate the ability to trend and analyze
safety-related performance data.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Discuss the key processes used in the trending and analysis of performance
information.
b. Discuss the key process to develop and implement metrics and performance
measures, validate performance against metrics and performance measures, and
trend/analyze data to establish a continuous improvement program.
c. Discuss the importance and key elements of the following:
• Maintenance history;
• Operational incident/occurrence report data;
• Security infractions;
• Safety incidents;
• Radiation exposure and incident reporting;
• Schedule variances; and
• Counterfeit and suspect parts.
d. Given an occurrence report, determine whether:
• Review process is adequate;
• Causes are appropriately defined;
• Corrective actions address causes;
• Lessons learned are appropriate; and
• Corrective actions are completed.
e. Given DOE Guide 231.1-1, Occurrence Reporting and Performance Analysis
Guide, discuss key elements of this Guide and how they might be applied.
f. Given incident/occurrence report data for a specified period, analyze the
information for contributing factors and safety trends.
7. A Technical Program Manager shall demonstrate a familiarity knowledge of the
Price-Anderson Amendment Act (PAAA) of 1988 and its impact on Department of
Energy activities.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Describe the purpose and scope of the PAAA.
b. Discuss the PAAA's applicability to the Department’s activities and the regulations
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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associated with its implementation.
c. Discuss the civil and criminal penalties imposed on the Department, management
and operating Contractors, and subcontractors as the result of a violation of
applicable rules and regulations.
Section 8
d. Discuss the general requirements associated with the topics below, as they are
affected by the following rule-making aspects of PAAA:
• Occupational Radiation Safety;
• Safety Analysis Reports;
• Unreviewed Safety Questions;
• Quality Assurance Requirements;
• Conduct of Operations at DOE Nuclear Facilities;
• Technical Safety Requirements; and
• Occurrences at DOE Nuclear Facilities.
e. Describe the process for identifying a PAAA reportable noncompliance and explain
which ones should be entered into the Noncompliance Tracking System (NTS).
8. A Technical Program Manager shall have a working level knowledge of formal
configuration management as it relates to safety.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Using the guidance in DOE-STD-1073-2003, Configuration Management, DOE-
STD-3024-98, Content of System Design Descriptions, and DOE Order 420.1A,
Facility Safety, discuss the System Engineer concept as it applies to oversight of
safety systems. Specifically address the areas of configuration management,
assessment of system status and performance, and the technical support for
operation and maintenance activities or for Documented Safety Analysis reviews.
b. Discuss the concept of configuration management and its importance in ensuring
operational safety.
c. For the elements identified above, describe the possible effects on safe operations
if they are ineffectively implemented.
d. Describe a typical configuration management process.
e. Given DOE-STD-1073-93, Guide for Configuration Management Programs, discuss
the relationship between the Standard and the DOE Orders.
f. Discuss each of the following elements of configuration management and how they
contribute to safety and an effective configuration management program.
• Program Management;
• Document Control;
• Change Control;
• Graded Approach;
• Design Requirements; and
• Assessments.
g. Discuss approved/recommended compensatory actions where inadequate
configuration management exists and work is ongoing or to be initiated.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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9. A Technical Program Manager shall have a working level knowledge of quality
assurance policies, programs, and processes.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Describe the general requirements, purpose, interrelationships and importance of
DOE Order 414.1A (Change 1), Quality Assurance, and 10 CFR 830.120 Subpart
A, Quality Assurance.
b. Describe the Department of Energy’s and the management and operating
contractor's responsibilities and requirements for implementing a Quality Assurance
Program (QAP).
c. Discuss the role of the Technical Program Manager with respect to DOE Order
414.1A (Change 1), Quality Assurance, and 10 CFR 830.120, Subpart A, Quality
Assurance.
d. Discuss the process for obtaining an exemption to the above documents.
e. Describe the quality assurance criteria of DOE Order 414.1A, Quality Assurance,
which address the following:
• Management;
• Performance; and
• Assessment.
f. Referring to DOE Guide 414.1-2, Quality Assurance Management System Guide for
use with 10 CFR 830.120, Subpart A, Quality Assurance, and DOE O 414.1 discuss
the implementation of an effective Quality Assurance Program (QAP). Conduct a
QA assessment of an ongoing project or work activity, and then review the results
with a qualified QA individual.
g. Discuss other relevant quality standards such as those from the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI), American Society for Quality Control (ASQC), etc.
Section 9
10. A Technical Program Manager shall have a working level knowledge of the
Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements in the following
documents:
• DOE Guide 440.1-1, Worker Protection Management for DOE Federal and
Contractor Employees – Guide for use with DOE O 440.1;
• 29 CFR 1910, Occupational Safety and Health Standards; and
• 29 CFR 1926, Safety and Health Regulations for Construction.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Discuss the application and impact of OSHA on Department projects.
b. Identify the requirements in the OSHA that form the basis of authority for project
management personnel in the oversight and management of a project.
c. Discuss the project manager responsibilities set forth in DOE O 440.1A, Worker
Protection Management for DOE Federal and Contractor Employees.
d. Discuss the following construction contractor's responsibilities under DOE 440.1A,
Worker Protection Management for DOE Federal and Contractor Employees:
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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• Establishing a safety program;
• Worksite presence during work activities; and
• Compliance by subcontractors.
e. Discuss the requirements for the performance of a hazard analysis and a hazard
abatement/prevention program. Include in the discussion each of the following
elements:
• Responsibility for implementation;
• Purpose and content of the hazard analysis; and
• Worker awareness of the hazards and hazard abatement/prevention.
f. Discuss the contractor's responsibility for providing necessary training to employees
in the area of safety and health at the worksite.
g. Discuss the project manager's responsibility for on-site safety and health
inspections.
h. Discuss the contractor's required response to an identified safety and/or health
hazard.
11. A Technical Program Manager shall demonstrate a working level knowledge of
hazardous waste and the development, review, and assessment of the following
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) documentation:
• Notice of Violation;
• RCRA Facility Investigation - Corrective Measures Study; and
• Consent Order and Settlement Agreement.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Define the term "hazardous waste."
b. Using the decision tree in 40 CFR Part 260, relate RCRA solid waste to hazardous
waste and identify the applicable RCRA regulations for each.
c. Identify the kinds of hazardous wastes generated within the Department and their
sources.
d. Describe the combination of facilities used to manage hazardous wastes at a site.
e. Discuss the current methods of disposing of hazardous wastes.
f. Describe the process for developing the listed documents.
12. A Technical Program Manager shall demonstrate a familiarity level knowledge of
the development, review, and assessment of the following National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation:
• Environmental Impact Statement, EIS;
• Environmental Assessment, EA;
• Finding of No Significant Impact FONSI;
• Categorical Exclusion, CX; and
• Record of Decision, ROD.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Describe the process for developing the listed documents.
b. Discuss the requirements for each document and describe the process for
reviewing the listed documents.
13. A Technical Program Manager shall demonstrate a familiarity level knowledge of
the purpose and requirements of the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA).
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
Section 10
a. Discuss the nine criteria set forth in 40 CFR 300, National Oil and Hazardous
Substances Pollution Contingency Plan, concerning the performance of Cleanup
Alternative Analysis.
b. Describe the requirements for public comment as they apply to the CERCLA
activities.
c. Discuss the purpose and history of the CERCLA.
d. Discuss the relationship between the CERCLA and all other environmental
regulations, especially the relationship between CERCLA and RCRA.
14. A Technical Program Manager shall demonstrate a working level knowledge of the
management and negotiation of regulatory agreements and permits.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Describe the responsibilities involved with the management of the following
documents:
• National Pollution Discharge Elimination System;
• Federal Facility Agreement;
• Consent Order and Settlement Agreements;
• ROD;
• RCRA permit parameters; and
• Grant conditions.
b. Discuss the requirements and methods of negotiation for the following documents:
• National Pollution Discharge Elimination System;
• Federal Facility Agreement;
• Consent Order and Settlement Agreements;
• ROD;
• RCRA permit parameters; and
• Grant conditions.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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15. A Technical Program Manager shall have a working level knowledge of Project
Risk Assessment.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Perform an assessment of project risks that identifies critical systems, subsystems,
and other factors that require focused work and resolution.
b. Identify the types of risks that are addressed in a project risk assessment.
c. Evaluate the assessed level of risk.
d. Describe the basis for the risk assessment.
e. Identify the critical project elements that contribute to the risk.
f. Identify the consequences of the risk.
g. Identify activities and alternatives to minimize the risk.
h. Identify the stage(s) of the project in which the risk exists.
16. A Technical Program Manager shall have a working level knowledge of financial
management practices and application of resources necessary to integrate and
apply program resources to meet commitments as described in Department of
Energy (DOE) Guide 430.1-1, Life Cycle Asset Management.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Define the term “Work Breakdown Structure” and discuss the process for
developing one.
b. Define and compare the terms “cost estimate” and “budget.”
c. Describe the process for preparing cost estimates and budgets.
d. Define and explain the relationship between the following terms:
• Budgeted cost of work scheduled (BCWS);
• Budgeted cost of work performed (BCWP);
• Actual cost of work performed (ACWP); and
• Earned value (EV).
e. Describe and compare labor and non-labor costs necessary to integrate and apply
program resources to meet commitments.
f. Describe and compare direct and indirect costs.
g. Discuss methods of reducing indirect costs.
h. Discuss the importance of determining the measure for work performed before work
starts.
i. Explain what is meant by the term "baseline" as it relates to project management.
j. Describe the types of data required to forecast cost and schedule performance.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
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k. Describe methods for measuring work performed.
l. Discuss schedule and cost variance.
m. Describe the types of EV and how they are measured.
n. Define the term “estimate at completion” (EAC).
o. Define the term "Life Cycle Cost Estimate."
p. Given sample data, calculate "Life Cycle Cost Estimate."
Section 11
q. Discuss the importance of formal change control with regard to project
management.
r. Discuss the use of strategic planning, and how such planning relates to ongoing
operations and safety of operations.
17. A Technical Program Manager shall demonstrate a working level knowledge of
assessment techniques (such as the planning and use of observations,
interviews, and document reviews) to assess facility performance, report results,
and follow up on actions taken as the result of assessments.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Describe the role of mechanical system personnel in the oversight of Government
Owned Contractor Operated facilities.
b. Describe the assessment requirements and limitations associated with a Technical
Program Manager’s interface with contractor employees.
c. Explain the essential elements of a performance-based assessment, including the
areas of investigation, fact-finding, and reporting. Include a discussion of the
essential elements and processes of the following assessment activities:
• Exit interviews;
• Closure process;
• Tracking to closure;
• Follow-up; and
• Contractor corrective action implementation.
d. Describe the actions to be taken if the contractor challenges the assessment
findings and explain how such challenges can be avoided.
18. A Technical Program Manager shall have a working level knowledge of technical
contract management to assess contractor performance.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Identify the three major DOE contract types and describe the characteristics and
the advantages and disadvantages of each.
b. Identify and discuss the types of contracting processes that are used to put major
contracts in place.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
15
c. Describe the "Accountability Rule” and discuss the role that it plays in contract
management.
d. Discuss the following terms as they apply to financial accountability for the
contractor:
• Incentives;
• Fines and penalties;
• Third-party liabilities;
• Loss of, or damage to, government property; and
• Allowable and non-allowable costs.
e. Discuss the technical oversight and qualifications required to assess contractor
performance and the training of contractor employees.
f. Discuss the fee-based evaluation process including the development of
performance criteria, conduct of the evaluation, and documentation and transmittal
requirements for performance.
g. Identify who can make contractual requests or approvals of contract provisions, and
the qualifications required of that individual(s).
h. Discuss the intent of the revised Department of Energy Acquisition Regulations
(DEAR) clause regarding safety and the impact of contract reform on safety.
19. A Technical Program Manager shall demonstrate the ability to communicate (both
oral and written) when working or interacting with the contractor, stakeholders,
and other internal and external organizations.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Identify the various internal and external groups with whom Technical Program
Manager personnel must interface with in the performance of their duties.
b. Apply written communication skills in the development of:
• Assessment reports;
• Technical reports; and
• Technical papers.
c. Apply effective and appropriate communications skills when providing specific work
or task directions to contractors.
20. A Technical Program Manager shall have a familiarity level knowledge of the
Section 12
Occupational Radiation Protection requirements as contained in 10 CFR 835,
Occupational Radiation Protection and the supporting Radiological Control
Technical Standards and Guides.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Discuss the applicability of 10 CFR 835 to a DOE Activity.
b. Discuss the role of the Radiation Protection Program in a Site Safety Program.
c. Explain the concept of ALARA and how it applies to DOE activities.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
16
d. Discuss the following concepts in radiation protection:
• Monitoring of individuals and areas;
• Entry control program;
• Posting and labeling;
• Records;
• Radiation safety training;
• Radioactive contamination control;
• Design and control;
• Sealed radioactive source control; and
• Emergency exposure situations.
e. Describe the basic concepts of DOE O 5400.5, Radioactive Protection of the Public
and the Environment, and how it applies to the free release of radioactive materials
or property.
21. A Technical Program Manager shall have a working level knowledge of problem
identification, solving, and decision making techniques.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Describe the following five problem analysis techniques below and provide an
example of their application to a recent problem or occurrence at your site:
• Root Cause Analysis;
• Causal Factor Analysis;
• Change Analysis;
• Barrier Analysis; and
• Management Oversight and Risk Tree Analysis.
b. Describe and explain the application of the following root cause analysis processes
in the performance of occurrence investigations:
• Events and causal factors charting;
• Root cause coding; and
• Recommendation generation.
c. Describe the elements of an effective issue management system and its importance
to safety.
d. Describe the following types of investigations and discuss an example of the
application of each:
• Type A;
• Type B; and
• Type C.
e. Discuss the necessary considerations that must be addressed when developing a
corrective action.
f. Discuss the immediate, short-term, and long-term actions taken as the result of a
problem identification or an occurrence.
g. Given the data for an event, determine the root cause and develop corrective
actions. Compare the results with that of the originator. Discuss any differences.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
17
22. A Technical Program Manager shall have a familiarity level knowledge of the
policies and procedures used to recruit, select, train, and qualify employees to
establish and maintain technical competency.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. As described in DOE Manual 426.1-1, Federal Technical Capability Manual, discuss
planning, recruitment, and selection processes that can be used to acquire a
technically competent workforce with the necessary knowledge, skills, abilities,
and/or potential to accomplish the goals of the organization. Discuss the roles and
responsibilities of the Federal Technical Capability Panel and Panel Agents in the
recruitment, selection, training, and retention of technical personnel. Describe the
following three types of mentoring relationships and discuss the types of goals that
an organizationally sponsored mentoring program is intended to meet :
• Supervisor;
• Informal; and
• Structured-Facilitated.
b. Discuss the parameters of the Excepted Service Authority(ies), the circumstances
which would dictate use of an Excepted Service Authority, and the process and
procedures for using an Excepted Service Authority to recruit and hire.
Section 13
c. Discuss ways to motivate, reward, recognize, and retain excellent employees or
recognize a major contribution to the organization using local rewards programs or
the programs described in the DOE Guide 426.1-1, Recruiting, Hiring and Retaining
High-Quality Technical Staff.
d. Describe methods used to assess an employee’s unique developmental needs and
why providing developmental opportunities to employees could contribute to the
achievement of organizational goals.
e. Describe in general the training and qualification requirements for contractors
specified in DOE Order 5480.20A, Personnel Selection, Qualification, and Training
Requirements for DOE Nuclear Facilities.
f. Participate in the oral examination or walk-through for a Facility Representative,
Safety System Oversight, or other technical qualification.
23. A Technical Program Manager shall have a familiarity level knowledge of the
employee concerns program as it relates to personnel and facility safety.
Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills
a. Describe the purpose, scope, and importance of the Department’s Employee
Concerns Program.
b. Describe the responsibilities of the following in implementing DOE Order 442.1A,
Department of Energy Employee Concerns Program:
• Headquarters and Field Office Managers; and
• Employee Concerns Manager.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
18
c. Describe how employee concerns are reported, processed and documented as
stated in DOE O 442.1A and the DOE G 442.1-1.
d. Describe the criteria for designating and processing occupational health and safety
concerns.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
19
APPENDIX A
CONTINUING EDUCATION, TRAINING AND PROFICIENCY PROGRAM
The following list represents suggested continuing education, training and other opportunities that
are available for DOE personnel after completion of the competency requirements in this technical
Functional Area Qualification Standard. It is extremely important that personnel involved with this
program maintain their proficiency through continuing education, training, reading, or other
activities such as workshops, seminars, and conferences. The list of suggested activities was
developed by the Subject Matter Experts involved in the development of the Functional Area
Qualification Standard and is not all inclusive.
LIST OF CONTINUING EDUCATION, TRAINING AND OTHER ACTIVITIES
Technical Program Manager personnel shall participate in an office/facility-specific continuing
training and qualification program that includes the following elements:
1. Continuing technical education and/or training covering topics directly related to the
Technical Program Management area as determined appropriate by management. This
may include courses/training provided by Department of Energy, other government
agencies, outside vendors, or local educational institutions. Continuing training topics
should also address identified weaknesses in the knowledge or skills of the individual
personnel.
2. Actively perform the duties of a Technical Program Manager while managing all aspects of
assigned programs.
3. Attend seminars, symposia, or technical meetings related to Technical Program Manager
personnel.
4. Engage in self study of new regulations, requirements, or advances related to Technical
Program Manager personnel.
5. Participation in practical exercises such as emergency or operational drills, simulations, or
laboratory-type exercises.
6. Specific continuing training requirements shall be documented in Individual Development
Plans.
DOE-STD-1178-2004
20
INTENTIONALLY BLANK
DOE-STD-1178-2004
21
CONCLUDING MATERIAL
Review Activity: Preparing Activity:
DOE-EH-22
EM
NNSA
EH
NE Project Number:
SC TRNG-0014
Field and Operations Offices:
CBFO
CH
ID
OH
OR
ORP
RFFO
RL
SR
Area and Site Offices:
Argonne Area Office
Brookhaven Area Office
Fermi Area Office
Kansas City Site Office
Livermore Site Office
Los Alamos Site Office
Nevada Site Office
Pantex Site Office
Princeton Area Office
Savannah River Site Office
Sandia Site Office
Y-12 Site Office