home Home < Managers and Supervisors < Compensation and Classification < Classification Process Overview

Classification Process Overview

Positions undergo classification review prior to recruitment, or as part of organizational change or job restructuring. Frequently changes to one position have an impact upon others in which case all impacted positions should be updated and submitted for classification review simultaneously.

Classification decisions are based solely upon the responsibilities and duties assigned to a position, including the skills, knowledge, and abilities required of the position. The overall credentials and personal circumstances of the incumbent are not considered in making a classification decision. Put simply, Compensation classifies the job, not the incumbent or potential candidate. Compensation receives frequent inquiries about classification. The most common misconception involves confusion about this person-position distinction. Examples of person-related factors that are not considered in job classification include:

  • Performance
  • Longevity
  • Unusual qualifications (for example, professional certifications) not required to perform the job duties
  • Retention issues
  • Financial needs
  • Increased workload or volume of work
  • Future projects

Subtopics: