NNSA workforce cuts erase hiring gains and curb nuclear material oversight

A GAO report finds that the National Nuclear Security Administration's federal workforce dropped from nearly 2,000 employees in early fiscal 2025 to 1,755 by the second quarter of fiscal 2026, a 13.6% reduction in mission-critical roles. The agency’s earlier hiring gains were more than offset by staff cuts made under the previous administration, leading to diminished oversight of nuclear material security. One security office saw its personnel shrink by roughly 40%, and officials acknowledge heightened operational challenges for the remaining workforce.

Attempts to improve efficiency with artificial intelligence are hampered by limited expertise and restrictions on classified use. Nearly 45% of recent departures stemmed from a deferred resignation program, while a hiring freeze was partially bypassed for 35 national-security positions. The agency says it continues to assess staffing needs and prioritize mission-critical positions.