Postdoctoral Fellowship appointments are made for one year, renewable annually (with the manager's approval) for a total anticipated period of three years. With the recommendation of the manager, a fourth and final year as a postdoctoral fellow may be granted. Salaries for this position are set at specific levels based on the length of time following receipt of the Doctorate.

Upon completion of three years as a postdoctoral fellow, a manager may recommend a continuation in the Postdoctoral Program through a promotion to a Senior Postdoctoral Fellow. These senior-level appointments are made for one year, renewable annually (with the manager's approval) for up to three years. Salaries for individuals in these positions are set at specific levels, based on the length of time following receipt of the Doctorate.

The total maximum time in the SAIC-Frederick, Inc. Postdoctoral Program should not exceed six years.