A new job classification system, JobScore, will make it easier for Councils to ensure their employees are being fairly rewarded for their efforts. Released in August, JobScore is a contemporary, valid and reliable position classification and remuneration system designed specifically for the Local Government sector.
All State Local Government Associations were involved in the development of this classification system.
Principles were applied from systems in several States, as well as from other classification systems, to ensure it covers the entire industry.
JobScore is a points factor system that evaluates a position by applying 18 descriptors covering every aspect of an employment position. It divides positions into four parts, each weighted differently.
These include ‘knowledge and skills’, ‘problem solving’, ‘interpersonal’, and ‘authority and accountability’.
The descriptors are assessed on a scale of 15 ratings and then weighted according to the importance of that skill.
Western Australia Local Government Association (WALGA) President, Councillor Bill Mitchell, said the new system offers consistency across the sector, and when used with salary data, can ascertain market salaries for specific positions.
“Local Government across Australia will now be able to access data specific to our sector and the wide range of jobs contained within it,” Councillor Mitchell said. “When used together with the Local Government Remuneration Survey, JobScore can identify ranges in pay that will allow Councils to match advertised positions against market demand in areas of skills shortages.”
He said the classification system allows internal assessors to have a greater knowledge of positions within their own Council, as well as delivering efficiencies and mobility between Councils around Australia.
“As sustainability is a critical issue for Local Governments across the nation, this information will offer efficiencies in human resource management and give Councils confidence in the assessment and remuneration of their workforce,” he said.
Councils will soon be offered training to provide internal assessors with the capacity to classify positions using the JobScore system.
This will not only explain the JobScore system in detail, but cover the evaluation and review of positions prior to assessment.
For further information on the JobScore system visit www.jobscore.org.au or call 1300 366 956.
