Division of Human Resources

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers on Position Reclassification and Salary Adjustments

This list of Frequently Asked Questions refers to Policy 304 in the Human Resources Policy Manual.


1. The duties of my position have greatly increased, and I believe that my salary is no longer appropriate for my level of responsibility. How do I initiate a review of my salary and/or job classification?

It is the responsibility of your supervisor to identify significant changes in job responsibility and initiate a classification review. If you believe that your duties have changed significantly, you should talk to your supervisor and request that he/she request a review of your job classification. If you and your supervisor disagree regarding the need to review your position, you may contact a representative from the Division of Human Resources/Staff and Labor Relations. He/she may mediate between you and your supervisor to achieve a resolution.

2. How does the Compensation office determine the proper salary for a position at the University?

Each regular University staff position is assigned a job title and pay grade based on the evaluation of job content and qualifications of the position. The Division of Human Resources/Compensation uses a factor comparison approach to position evaluation. Each position is evaluated on the factors detailed in the Position Information Questionnaire (PIQ). The result of the position evaluation establishes the classification of a position in a pay grade within the University's salary structure. Individual salaries are determined by considering the staff member's education, experience, and skills; relative pay equity within organizational units and throughout the University; and budget and market issues.

3. My position was reclassified recently. Am I entitled to an annual merit increase?

Regular full-time or part-time University staff members who were employed with the University on or before the last day of February each year are usually eligible for a merit increase under the University's Salary Increase Program that year. Reclassification of your position will not affect your eligibility.

4. What information will the Compensation Office need to evaluate a position?

When a supervisor requests a classification review of a filled position, he/she needs to submit a memo stating the reasons for the request and other relevant information regarding the position, an updated Position Information Questionnaire (PIQ) with appropriate signatures, an organizational chart (if available), and a current resume for the staff member.

5. Must a supervisor accept the recommendation of the Compensation Specialist?

Classification and/or salary recommendations that are not accepted by a supervisor and/or the affected staff member are normally resolved by the Director of Compensation and the Compensation staff by using information provided by appropriate parties to clarify the issues. Issues not resolved at this level are forwarded to the Vice President of Human Resources for further review and discussion. The Vice President may get advice on the matter from senior University administrators who review compensation policies and salary administration documentation. Review and decision at this level could also include the senior business officer and/or Dean of the affected school or center.