Compensation and Classification Studies
Last modified Wednesday, August 01, 2007 14:55
What is the purpose of a compensation and classification study?
The purpose of this study is to ensure that communities have accurate job specifications and salaries that will help retain the best employees and attract qualified applicants. Compensation and classification studies provide communities with a customized salary structure for their organization.
What is involved in the study process?
Following an initial meeting with the elected body, ARC staff will meet with all department directors and conduct an orientation session for all employees to describe the process, establish realistic expectations and answer questions. At the orientation meetings we will distribute Position Description Questionnaires (PDQs), the tool used to evaluate each position. Interviews, or desk audits, with the incumbent of the position will be conducted as necessary to gather pertinent information that will allow ARC staff to appropriately classify the position. ARC staff will then:
• Conduct a comprehensive salary survey of cities and counties in your competitive market;
• Update and create new class specifications;
• Study and evaluate all positions to determine the appropriate classification and salary for each; and
• Make necessary adjustments to the pay structure.
How do I know if my City or County needs to do a classification and compensation study?
While every local government is unique, some common reasons for pay and classification studies include:
• Outdated class specifications
• Increased turnover
• Difficulty in recruiting qualified employees
Can we study a single department instead of the entire city or county?
Studying a single department will result in a recommendation that is inconsistent with the rest of the system. This is not recommended.
How much does it cost?
$50.00 per employee for jurisdictions with less than 500 employees
$60.00 per employee for jurisdictions with more than 500 employees
What experience do you have working with local governments in the Atlanta region?
The ARC Local Government Services division has completed Compensation and Classification Studies for several local governments. These include:
City of McDonough
City of Powder Springs
City of College Park
City of East Point
Rockdale County
City of Riverdale
City of Union City
City of Fayetteville
City of Hampton
City of Locust Grove
City of Lawrenceville
Who do I contact to request a Compensation & Classification Study?
For Compensation and Classification assistance please contact Kellie Brownlow at (404) 463-3212 or kbrownlow@atlantaregional.com or Ashlee Phillips at (404) 463-3214 or aphillips@atlantaregional.com.
