Frequently Asked Questions:

What is position classification?  Position classification is organizing jobs into groups or classification based on similar duties, responsibilities and qualifications.  For more detailed information on position classification, please refer to our link titled “Overview of Position Classification.” 

What is a reclassification?  A reclassification is an action on a position to change its classification and grade because of a permanent change in duties and responsibilities assigned to the position.  It is not a promotion based on an employee’s seniority or a means of compensating an employee’s excellent work performance. 

What happens when the Classification and Compensation Division receives an agency’s request to reclassify a position?  The request is assigned to a classification analyst who reviews all the source documents necessary to complete a study.  These documents include the position description (MS-22), organizational chart, the DHMH 1854 form and state application (MS-100).  In order to make an assessment as to whether the request can be supported, the analyst conducts two processes:  job analysis (collection of data regarding position’s pertinent duties and responsibilities) and job evaluation (compensation tool that determines how those duties and responsibilities are paid).  The analyst prepares a written report detailing the above information to include a written recommendation as to the proper classification of the position.  The agency is then notified of the decision.  For more information on the job analysis and job evaluation processes, please refer to our links on this website:  Overview of Position Classification, Position Reclassification Request Instructions or our PowerPoint presentation on Classification & Compensation.

What is acting capacity compensation?  Acting capacity is a form of compensating an employee who is temporarily assigned higher-level duties due to the temporary absence of an incumbent, a vacancy in the unit or unusual circumstances, which necessitate assignment of duties at a level higher than the employee’s current classification.

How long must I perform the duties before I get paid acting capacity?  Employees temporarily assigned higher-level duties must serve a waiting period.  An employee currently compensated at Grades 5-10 will receive additional compensation once he or she has performed the higher-level duties for a period in excess of ten (10) working days while an employee compensated at Grade 11 or above will receive additional compensation once he or she has performed the higher-level duties for a period in excess of twenty (20) working days.      

Where do I get the forms for reclassification and acting capacity?  The forms can be accessed on the link for OHR forms—Classification.  It is important to note that the proper submission and completion of forms helps expedite the review process.

Other questions?  Please feel free to call our staff at (410) 767-6410.