AF Form 3991 SES Invitation: Download & Guide (2026)

AF Form 3991 SES Invitation: Download & Guide (2026) – The Senior Executive Service (SES) represents the top tier of civilian leadership in the U.S. federal government, including the Department of the Air Force (DAF). AF Form 3991, officially titled SES Invitation, serves as an official form associated with the Air Force’s SES program. It is referenced in Department of the Air Force publications for administrative processes involving senior executives.

This article provides a clear, up-to-date overview for current and aspiring Air Force civilian leaders, particularly those in the United States seeking information on SES appointments, notifications, and related documentation.

What Is AF Form 3991?

AF Form 3991 is the SES Invitation form used within the Department of the Air Force. It appears in official DAF guidance on publishing processes and procedures, specifically listed among adopted and referenced forms in DAFMAN 90-161, Publishing Processes and Procedures (18 October 2023, Incorporating Change 1, 14 July 2025).

While detailed public instructions for filling out the form itself are limited (as many internal SES actions use standardized templates managed by the Senior Executive Management Office or equivalent), the form supports formal invitations or notifications tied to SES selections, appointments, or related executive actions. It fits into broader civilian personnel management for high-level leadership roles.

SES positions in the Air Force demand exceptional executive leadership and align with the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) established by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).

Context: Senior Executive Service in the Department of the Air Force

The SES consists of senior civilian executives who lead major programs, manage large organizations, and shape policy. In the Air Force and Space Force, SES members fill critical roles in acquisition, intelligence, logistics, research, and headquarters functions.

Key governing documents include:

  • DAFMAN 90-161 — References AF Form 3991 directly in the context of forms management.
  • Related civilian personnel instructions (such as those covering performance management, development, and placement) that support the SES pipeline.

SES selectees and appointees often receive formal notifications or invitations as part of the selection and onboarding process. The form likely facilitates official correspondence, acceptance, or administrative steps following selection.

Note: The Air Force maintains a robust career progression path for civilians aiming for SES roles, including executive development programs, Individual Development Plans (IDPs), and mentoring aligned with OPM’s ECQs: Leading Change, Leading People, Results Driven, Business Acumen, and Building Coalitions.

Who Uses AF Form 3991?

  • SES Selectees: Individuals selected for Senior Executive Service positions.
  • Air Force Civilian Personnel Offices and the Senior Executive Management Office.
  • Hiring Managers and Executives: Involved in onboarding or formal invitation processes.
  • Support Staff: Handling documentation for SES appointments.

The form integrates into the broader DAF publications and forms ecosystem, managed through the official e-Publishing.af.mil portal.

How to Access and Download AF Form 3991?

Official Department of the Air Force forms are available through the Air Force e-Publishing website (www.e-publishing.af.mil). Search for AF Form 3991 or related SES documentation in the Product Index.

Direct download links (provided for convenience; always verify on the official site for the latest version):

Important: Forms and publications can be updated. Check the official e-Publishing site for the most current version, revision date, and any superseding guidance. Compliance with current DAFMAN 90-161 and applicable civilian personnel instructions is mandatory.

If you need assistance locating the exact form, contact your local Civilian Personnel Office (CPO) or the appropriate functional office for SES matters.

  • Selection and Appointment: SES positions are highly competitive and typically filled through a structured process involving ECQ demonstrations, interviews, and certification by a Qualifications Review Board (QRB).
  • Development Programs: High-potential GS-14/15 employees prepare for SES through targeted leadership development, mobility assignments, and executive training.
  • Performance Management: SES members operate under a distinct appraisal system focused on results, organizational impact, and alignment with DAF priorities.
  • Stationery and Official Items: SES selectees may order specialized stationery once notified, as noted in DAF guidance.

For full policy details, refer to current Department of the Air Force Instructions on civilian personnel management and any specific SES program guidance issued by SAF/A1 or the Senior Executive Management Office.

Tips for Air Force Civilians Pursuing SES

  1. Build Your Leadership Portfolio — Document sustained superior performance with clear examples tied to the five ECQs.
  2. Seek Feedback — Use IDPs and mentoring to close gaps in executive competencies.
  3. Understand Mobility — SES roles often require geographic or functional mobility.
  4. Stay Informed — Monitor USAJOBS for SES vacancies and internal DAF announcements.
  5. Use Official Resources — Rely on e-publishing.af.mil, myPers, and your servicing Civilian Personnel Office.

Conclusion

AF Form 3991 (SES Invitation) plays a supporting role in the formal processes surrounding Senior Executive Service appointments in the U.S. Air Force. Whether you are a selectee receiving an official invitation or an HR professional managing documentation, understanding this form within the context of DAFMAN 90-161 and broader SES policies helps ensure smooth administration.

For the most accurate and current information, always consult official sources:

  • Air Force e-Publishing: www.e-publishing.af.mil
  • Department of the Air Force civilian careers resources
  • Office of Personnel Management (OPM) SES guidance

Keywords: AF Form 3991, SES Invitation, Air Force Senior Executive Service, DAFMAN 90-161, Air Force SES form, Department of the Air Force SES, civilian executive leadership.

This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available Department of the Air Force publications as of 2026. Policies and forms may change; verify all information through official channels before use.