This Equal Opportunity Employment Policy ("Policy") is published by VA WORKS, LLC ("Consultant") and forms part of the Governing Policies referenced in the Master Service Agreement ("MSA"), the MSA Terms and Conditions (https://vaworks.com/MasterServiceAgreement), and any applicable Scope of Work Terms and Conditions (https://vaworks.com/SOWSelection). In the event of conflict, priority shall be determined in accordance with the MSA.
1. Purpose and Commitment
The purpose of this Policy is to affirm Consultant's commitment to maintaining a fair, inclusive, and professional workplace where all employment-related decisions are made without discrimination. Consultant is dedicated to ensuring equal opportunity in all aspects of hiring, training, advancement, compensation, and assignment of personnel to client engagements.
2. Scope of Application
This Policy applies to all employees and independent contractors engaged by Consultant and assigned to Company under any MSA or SOW. It also applies to all employment practices, including recruitment, onboarding, evaluation, promotion, compensation, and termination.
3. Non-Discrimination Standard
Consultant prohibits discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, marital status, veteran status, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Employment decisions are based solely on merit, qualifications, performance, and business needs.
4. Workplace Conduct
All personnel provided by Consultant are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with this Policy and Consultant's Code of Conduct. Harassment or discriminatory behavior of any kind is strictly prohibited. Consultant reserves the right to take corrective or disciplinary action, up to and including termination, against any personnel who violate this Policy.
5. Reporting and Enforcement
Concerns regarding violations of this Policy may be reported through Consultant's established reporting channels, as outlined in the Ethics and Reporting Policy. Reports will be treated confidentially to the extent possible and investigated promptly and impartially. Consultant strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who raises a concern in good faith.
6. Review and Updates
This Policy will be reviewed annually or more frequently if required by changes in law or regulation. Updates will be published and become binding as part of the Governing Policies referenced in the MSA.