The U.S. Navy understands that sailors sometimes need to address personal or professional goals that require stepping away from active duty. To support this, the Navy Career Intermission Program (CIP) offers a unique opportunity for both officers and enlisted personnel to take a career pause. This program allows eligible service members to transition into the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) for up to three years, providing a structured break while preserving key benefits and paving the way for a seamless return to active service.
What is the Career Intermission Program (CIP)?
Established in 2009, the Career Intermission Program Navy is designed to provide active duty and Full Time Support (FTS) officers and enlisted sailors with the flexibility to manage life’s challenges and opportunities without completely leaving naval service. CIP allows participants to take a temporary break, ranging up to three years, from their active duty commitments by transferring to the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR). After their intermission, participants return to active duty, bringing back enriched experiences and renewed dedication. This program recognizes that sailors may need time for various reasons, such as pursuing higher education, focusing on family matters, or attending to personal well-being.
Benefits of the Navy CIP
Participating in the Career Intermission Program Navy comes with several significant benefits, ensuring that sailors and their families are supported during their time in the IRR:
- Healthcare Coverage: Participants and their dependents retain full medical and dental benefits throughout the intermission period. This ensures continuous access to healthcare services, a crucial aspect of peace of mind during this transition.
- Base Privileges: CIP participants continue to enjoy privileges such as access to Navy Exchange (NEX) and Commissary facilities. This helps maintain a connection to the Navy community and provides cost-saving benefits.
- Reserve Stipend: To provide financial support during the intermission, participants receive a monthly stipend. This stipend is calculated as two times 1/30th of their basic active duty pay, offering a degree of financial stability while in the IRR.
- CONUS PCS Move: The program authorizes a one-time CONUS (Continental United States) Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move to a location of the participant’s choice within the United States. This benefit assists with relocation to better pursue intermission goals.
- Accrued Leave: Sailors have the option to carry forward unused accrued leave (up to 60 days) through their intermission. Alternatively, they can choose to use or sell back their leave before starting CIP, providing flexibility in managing their leave balance.
- GI Bill Usage: CIP participants are eligible to utilize their Post-9/11 or Webb GI Bill benefits while in the IRR, provided they meet the necessary GI Bill requirements. This offers a valuable opportunity for participants to further their education during their intermission.
Eligibility and Application Process
Eligibility for the Career Intermission Program Navy is open to active duty and Training and Administration of the Reserve (TAR) personnel. It’s important to note that acceptance into CIP is not automatic and is based on a competitive selection process. Sailors interested in applying should be aware of the following key points:
- Application Timeline: Applications must be submitted electronically to the PERS-9 Career Intermission Program Manager at least 12 months prior to the projected rotation date (PRD) or the end of active obligated service, whichever comes first. Early communication with detailers is highly recommended for those considering the program.
- OPNAVINST 1330.2C: Detailed rules, eligibility criteria, and application procedures are outlined in OPNAVINST 1330.2C. Prospective applicants should refer to this instruction for comprehensive information.
- Review and Approval: Application packages are thoroughly reviewed for eligibility and then routed through the member’s Detailer (PERS-4) and Community Managers (BUPERS-3) before final approval by Commander, Navy Personnel Command (CNPC).
Obligations and Return to Active Duty
While the Career Intermission Program Navy offers significant flexibility, it also involves certain obligations to ensure a smooth return to active duty and continued service to the Navy:
- Service Obligation: Participants incur a service obligation of one month of active duty for every month spent in the IRR. This is in addition to any existing or future active duty obligations, ensuring a return of service commensurate with the program’s benefits.
- Rank and Time-in-Rate Adjustment: Upon returning to active duty, the Navy adjusts the date of rank or time-in-rate for participants. This adjustment is designed to ensure that participants remain competitive for promotions alongside their peers with similar experience levels, addressing potential career progression concerns.
- Electronic Muster: During their time in the IRR, participants are required to electronically muster for accountability purposes, maintaining contact with the Navy and staying informed of relevant updates.
For Officers: Deferred Promotion Eligibility
For officers considering the Career Intermission Program Navy, it is important to be aware of a specific policy regarding promotion eligibility deferment. According to Section 619(c)(2)(B) of Title 10, U.S.C., and SECNAVINST 1420.1C, officers eligible for in-zone or above-zone promotion consideration within one year of Active Duty List (ADL) placement may have their eligibility deferred. However, officers can waive this deferment by submitting a written request to Commander, Navy Personnel Command (PERS-802) at least 30 days before the promotion board convening date. This ensures officers have control over their promotion consideration timeline even when participating in CIP.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
To further clarify common queries about the Career Intermission Program Navy, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
What can the Career Intermission Program be used for?
The CIP is versatile and can accommodate a wide array of personal and professional pursuits. Sailors have utilized CIP for advanced degrees, family care responsibilities, entrepreneurial ventures, and personal development. Examples include pursuing graduate studies at prestigious universities or dedicating time to care for family members.
Is the Career Intermission Program permanent?
Yes, the Career Intermission Program Navy has been authorized as a permanent program, indicating the Navy’s long-term commitment to supporting sailors’ work-life balance and career flexibility.
Who is eligible to apply for CIP?
Active duty and TAR personnel are eligible to apply. However, meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee acceptance, as CIP is a selective program. Sailors under PCS orders are generally ineligible.
Can I pursue a degree change my career path after CIP?
Officers may use CIP to pursue further education and potentially transition to a different community via the Lateral Transfer process. Enlisted sailors can pursue commissioning programs; however, CIP is separate from commissioning and lateral transfer processes. Selection for these programs is not guaranteed and participants should be prepared to return to their original designator or rating if not selected.
Will CIP impact my promotion opportunities?
While participants are exempt from promotion consideration during CIP, the date of rank is adjusted upon return to active duty. This adjustment ensures participants remain competitive for future promotions, and many CIP participants have been promoted after completing the program.
Where can I get more information or apply?
For detailed information and application procedures, refer to OPNAVINST 1330.2C. Specific questions can be directed to the Career Intermission Program Manager at [email protected].
Conclusion
The Career Intermission Program Navy represents a valuable opportunity for sailors to achieve a better work-life balance, pursue personal and professional development, and return to naval service with renewed vigor. By providing a structured sabbatical with continued benefits and a clear path for return, the Navy demonstrates its commitment to the long-term well-being and career success of its personnel. Sailors considering a career intermission are encouraged to explore the CIP and communicate with their detailers to determine if this program aligns with their individual needs and goals.
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