Writing and Using a Job Description
By Marge D. Hansen
January 31, 2004
Written job descriptions outline specific responsibilities, objectives and expectations of a position, enabling supervisors and human resource specialists match the right person to the job.
Well-organized job descriptions serve a variety of purposes. They serve as a reference to help employees understand what is required of them.
They also can be used as an evaluation tool to assess employee achievement and overall performance, or for self-evaluation to track personal effectiveness.
Write a complete job description for each full- and part-time position in your organization (paid and volunteer). Detail the duties of the position and the skills, qualifications and special demands required.
A job description should include standardized information such as job title, department, supervisor and status (full-time, part-time).
Describe the position with a summary statement. List the job responsibilities starting with the most important or key function(s).
Outline the qualifications required, including special skills, abilities, education and experience needed to be successful in the job.
Note the physical requirements of the position such as visual acuity, mobility, ability to lift and unpack merchandise, etc., and describe the work environment including noise level.
The job description is a "living document" subject to modification. Insert a date in the footer to be changed each time it is revised.
Written job descriptions streamline the process of hiring and evaluating employees and clarify the work structure of your organization. Download a .pdf sample Job Description Form by clicking on the image above.
Marge Hansen is a freelance writer based in Castle Rock, CO, who frequently writes for MSA.
Sample Job Description Form (PDF)
|
