JOB CLASSIFICATION AND COMPENSATION STUDIES

Job classification specifications are general descriptions of the typical duties, knowledge and abilities, and education and experience required for the specified job title and level.

As jobs change in scope, it becomes necessary to periodically update the specification descriptions and requirements.  This is one of the times when a job classification study is required.  In this type of classification study, it is a normal practice that a compensation study be conducted at the same time.  Compensation studies are a comparison of salary ranges with comparable job classifications in comparable counties.  Classification and compensation studies are conducted by Human Resources Analysts.

Another reason for a job classification study is at the request of a department or a labor union.  These types of classification studies are conducted to ascertain whether the work required of a particular classification or individual in a classification is correctly matched.  For these types of classification studies, the specific positions in question are studied and compared to the job class specification to see if it is an appropriate fit.  If it is found that the job has changed, it is recommended that the position(s) be re-classified to the appropriate job classification and/or level.

All job classification and compensation studies are written recommendations that are submitted to the Civil Service Commission for review, then to the Board of Supervisors for approval.