NASA reinforces efforts to reduce its employee count

NASA is preparing for significant changes as the space agency aims to reduce its workforce while avoiding layoffs. Acting Administrator Janet Petro announced the introduction of voluntary separation tools, including a new Deferred Resignation Program (DRP), as part of this effort.

Petro stated that the agency will remain focused on maintaining technical excellence and capability, viewing the cuts as an opportunity to reshape NASA's workforce. The proposed budget for fiscal 2026 suggests a 24% cut in NASA's budget and a 29% reduction of its workforce, which would be among the most significant for any large federal agency under President Trump's blueprint.

The Trump administration's plan includes the potential elimination of 107,000 federal jobs next year. Officials at facilities like Goddard Space Flight Center anticipate a 18% staff reduction before additional incentives, resulting from the first round of deferred resignations, ongoing hiring freeze, and historical attrition rates.

Eligibility for the separation incentive offers at NASA depends on each employee's specific situation. Eligible employees will have access to early retirement and regular buyout payments. Some critical need employees will start their paid leave on April 1, 2026, and depart NASA on Sept. 30 of the same year.

Sean Duffy is currently serving as the interim (acting) NASA Administrator and will likely continue in this role as long as President Trump does not allow a new appointment for Jared Isaacman, whose nomination has been withdrawn by the President. Petro is expected to remain as NASA's acting leader for the foreseeable future.

The article has been updated with additional details. NASA has already undergone RIFs, closing the Office of the Chief Scientist and the Office of Technology Policy and Strategy, and issuing RIF notices to their approximately 20 employees on March 10. The Office of the Chief Economist, which helped NASA engage with commercial space companies and understand the economic potential of space, was part of the closed Office of Technology Policy and Strategy.

The new offer takes effect much later than its predecessors, keeping employees on the rolls through Jan. 9, 2026. Petro described the cuts as "difficult adjustments," but viewed them as an opportunity to reshape NASA's workforce. The article is also related to Trump's plan to slash federal jobs.