Classification

Section 1. Class Specifications Interpreted.

The specifications of classes of positions in the classification plan have the following force and effect:

a. They are descriptive and explanatory and are not restrictive. The use of a particular expression or illustration as to duties, qualifications, or other attributes will not be held to exclude others not mentioned if such others are similar in kind or quality.

b. When a substantial change of duties is made, or duties are added that are incidental to the main employment, such changes will be reported to the Human Resources Director for the purpose of possible reclassification of the position. (Amended 07/11/06)

Section 2. Classification of New Positions.

a. The creation of a new position is subject to approval through the budgeting process based on needs demonstrated by the Department Head concerned. The Human Resources Director shall update as necessary the classification and compensation plans of the City for the classified services. The Director shall present such plans, and the recommendation of the Civil Service Commission, to the City Council for acceptance and approval. (Amended 7/31/07)

b. Whenever a new position is proposed, the Department Head shall forward to the Human Resources Director a description of the proposed duties and responsibilities of the position. The Human Resources Director shall, after a study of the Department Head’s proposal, make changes, if necessary, recommend the appropriate class and grade in the classification plan to which the position should be allocated, and submit for recommendation and approval in accordance with Section 2a. (Amended 7/31/07)

c. In determining the classification of a position consideration shall be given to the general duties and responsibilities of the position, the recommended minimum entrance qualifications, and relationships to other positions. (Amended 07/11/06)

Section 3. Reclassification of Positions.

a. The Human Resources Director may investigate of his own accord or will investigate upon the request of a Department Head, any change in the duties and responsibilities of a position from those upon which it was originally classified. Upon initiation of an investigation, the employee shall be provided written notice. If it is found that the duties and responsibilities of the position have changed so significantly that the former classification is a substantially inaccurate description of the current duties and responsibilities, the Human Resources Director will place the position in its proper class and grade, in accordance with Section 2a. (Amended 7/31/07)

A change in compensation applying to all positions of the same class and grade will not affect the seniority or other rights of those in the Civil Service. The Human Resources Director may at any time secure from the Department Heads or employees involved, statements of the duties and responsibilities of the position under review. The Department Heads and employees concerned will have an opportunity to be heard before the revised class is approved. (Amended 07/31/07)

b. Whenever the reclassification of a position has been authorized, the Human Resources Director, after conferring with the City Manager and Department Head concerned, will determine whether: (Amended 07/31/07)

(1) the position in the new class will continue to be held by the incumbent of the position of the old class; or

(2) is to be filled through a non-competitive or competitive examination.

print-version