Guidance for Developing/Updating Job Descriptions

This guidance has been developed for AfC Project Managers and Job Evaluation Leads across NHS Scotland to ensure that Job Descriptions are completed in a format that will complement the AfC Job Matching process.

Job descriptions must be developed in partnership by the staff member/s, line manager and staff-side representative.

For an illustration of the process please refer to the Job Description Process Flowchart.

Introduction

The first stage in the job evaluation processes under the new pay system Agenda for Change is the job matching process. This process involves matching agreed local Job Descriptions to National Profiles thereby eliminating the requirement for the full job evaluation process to be applied to every post. Both processes are extremely robust but job matching is far less onerous than local evaluation and does not require the Post Holder to complete a Job Analysis Questionnaire, have this analysed and then evaluated by a full evaluation panel.

In order to ensure the job matching process can be conducted effectively and smoothly, it is essential that Job Descriptions are accurate and up to date. The Agenda for Change Job Evaluation Scheme takes into account a number of criteria which have not been used in the past and which must be recorded in the Job Description to allow the joint matching panels to successively match posts.

The purpose of publishing the completed core NHS Job Templates which have been developed by the Scottish Pilot Sites is to enable line managers, staff-side representatives and others, in conjunction with staff members to agree appropriate Job Descriptions where these do not already exist.

Step-by-step Guide

Step 1 – Assess the Current Job Description

If the Job Description is current, accurately reflects the Job Role and covers the additional factors required for Agenda for Change (see the template guidance notes and the blank job description template) then the Job Description should be signed off by the Job Holder and Manager. No further action is required.

Step 2 – Identify if the Job is a Core NHS Job

If the job description needs to be updated or revised identify whether the job is one of the Core NHS jobs developed by the Scottish Pilot sites and listed in the index of Core NHS Job Templates.

Step 3 – Update the Job Description in Conjunction with Job Holder/s

If the job is one of the Core NHS jobs amend the description to meet local needs using the appropriate template from the index of Core NHS Job Templates.

If the job is not on the list of Core NHS Jobs, i.e. it is unique or has not yet been developed, then use the blank job description template provided.

Guidance notes are available to take you through the process and ensure that all Job Descriptions are developed in line with the agreed format.

Step 4 – Sign Off Job Description/s

Once the revised Job Descriptions have been completed and agreed they should be signed off by the job holder and line manager in preparation for the Job Matching process.

Further Information

For further information on the development of Job Descriptions please e-mail the Agenda for Change Team or call 0141 242 5851.