0800 Classification and Compensation

0880(B) OCCUPATIONAL STUDIES

.1 BACKGROUND

.110 Definition

.111 Occupational Studies are the systematic review and analysis of an occupation as it exists in State government.  It involves the identification and analysis of the duties associated with all levels of titles in that occupation, and the organizational and programmatic context in which jobs function.

.120 Purpose

.121 Occupational Studies are conducted by the Division of Classification and Compensation to determine whether a title series requires updating or a new title series needs to be created in response to:

1. Agency reorganization(s).
2. Substantial changes in a job’s program content and direction.
3. Technological changes.
4. Legal changes.
5. Changes in the availability and qualifications of the workforce.

.2 PROCEDURE

.210 Occupational Study Procedure

.211 The general procedure for performing an Occupational Study is:

1. The actual need for a study should be determined.  If deemed appropriate, applicable titles and locations will be identified.
2. Relevant agency work papers and/or position descriptions regarding titles will be reviewed.  If necessary, a request may be made for current position descriptions.
3. Other agencies that have the applicable titles will be contacted regarding position descriptions and the organizational placement of positions.  If necessary, surveys or other quantitative means of gathering applicable information will be prepared and distributed.
4. Research will be conducted of other similar industry jobs to determine changes or trends.
5. A proposal will be prepared that identifies the potential problems and probable causes, and develops suggestions for resolution.
6. Observations in the proposal will be verified or discredited by visiting work sites and interviewing staff within the occupation at all levels as well as their managers and subordinates.
7. A report on all field work findings, including whether the proposal is supported and next steps, will be assembled and finalized.   If the findings support the proposal, a procedure will be developed for implementation that describes the implications of the proposal on: testing, training, and staffing; the impact on employees, agency, and fiscal operations; and the required transactions needed for completion.

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TM-65 - Replaces: All of Section 0800 Dated Prior to August 2008

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