What does the critical-sensitive designation refer to?

The critical-sensitive designation is assigned to positions that involve significant national security responsibilities, particularly those related to policy-making or decision-making that can directly influence national security interests. Individuals in these roles typically have access to sensitive information and may be responsible for making decisions that could affect national security outcomes.

This designation reflects the high level of trust and scrutiny necessary for these positions, thus requiring thorough background checks and ongoing evaluations to ensure that individuals holding such roles are reliable and trustworthy. The critical-sensitive designation is a key component in safeguarding national security, as it identifies roles that demand the highest standards of personal conduct and integrity.

In contrast, other designations like those for positions with no impact on national security or those requiring only basic clearance do not carry the same level of responsibility or necessary vetting.