Classification Studies

Classification FAQs

What is the purpose of a classification?

The Classification Plan, governed by ORS 240.215, is a management tool that organizes the State's large and diverse work force to ensure:

Classes are discreet and internally consistent
Specifications are broadly, clearly, and accurately written
Classifications are statewide whenever possible
Simplification of administrative systems and get economies of scale
Clear career paths for state employees, allowing for and promoting employee movement across state agencies
Promotion of comparable treatment of people among various agencies
Systematic compensation decisions

What are the potential outcomes of a classification study?

Revised classification: When duties, responsibilities, and knowledge changes over time and the classification specification is updated.

Abolished classification: The body of work changes to the extent the classification is obsolete or no longer relevant.

New classification: A new body of work or a new classification is introduced, and a new specification is created.

No change: When the classification has not changed significantly enough to warrant revising.

Where can I find the new salary range for the classification?

You will find the salary range in the new collective bargaining agreement under Salary Selective Changes. It includes the effective date.

How do I know what the effective date of the salary change is?

You will find the effective date in the new collective bargaining agreement under Salary Selective Changes.

Who is responsible for keying-in the position changes in Workday?

Agency HR is responsible for entering all position changes into Workday.

What is the difference between classification and job profile?

Classification is a group of positions in the state classification system. Its function is to group positions alike in duties, authority, and responsibilities to ensure comparable treatment in pay and selection across the Executive Branch.

Job profile is the term used for the features and characteristics of a single job in Workday. It is assigned to a job and ties the classification, salary range, etc. to the employee who sits in it. Its function is to ensure the appropriate classification and other key features of the job are tied to the position and the incumbent for correct pay, benefits, etc.

What do I do if a position no longer fits the classification studied?

If a job is currently classified in the classification studied, but the employee is performing different work, conduct a reclassification review and submit that review with your allocation package.