Completing the Position Description Form

Last updated on March 8, 2024. Originally published July 7, 2023.

Using the Unified Position Description Form

For all TEAMS and USPS positions, please use the unified position description form.

Instructions for Timely Processing

It’s crucial to carefully follow these instructions to ensure the prompt processing of your classification request. Missing or incomplete information can hinder the review process and may lead to delays in posting vacant positions or reclassification effective dates.

Titles and Position Number

  • Enter the proposed classification title and working title (if known).
  • Enter the current position number.

Position Summary

  • Provide a brief summary of the position’s role and responsibilities (please limit to 300 words).

Job Functions

  • Essential Functions: Describe the duties and responsibilities of the position, including methods and tools used. Use action verbs and assign percentages to each function. Percentages should not exceed 50%.
  • Marginal Functions: Describe functions that are optional only to individuals covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act who are unable to perform them with or without reasonable accommodation. Marginal Functions should not exceed 10% total.
  • Essential and marginal functions combined must total 100%.

Supervision and Work Schedule

  • Explain the type and extent of instructions given by the immediate supervisor.
  • List the classification titles and position numbers of positions under the direct supervision of this position.
  • Describe the normal work schedule, listing the days and hours.
  • Explain any variations from the normal schedule, such as on-call, shift rotations, seasonal extended hours, travel, etc.

Requirements and Qualifications

  • List all education, training, or experience required, which must include the minimums listed on the job profile. Additional requirements or preferences may be listed.
  • List the types of licenses and certificates required for the position.

Additional Details

  • List any other characteristics of the position, including physical, mental, or environmental factors essential to satisfactory performance.
  • List major types of machines and equipment used on the job and the approximate percentage of working time spent on each.
  • Describe any policy-making, interpretation of policy, program direction, program development, type of communication (internal and external), monetary responsibility, and level of responsibility for confidential data.

Creativity and Leadership

  • Describe the creative components of the job and the development and implementation of strategic recommendations.
  • Explain the type and extent of decision-making and leadership expected from the employee.

Entering Information

Enter this information into an “Add New Position” or “Update Position” ePAF. You may save the document on your local drive for retrieval or modification at a later date. To ensure clear communication of job responsibilities, print a copy, obtain signatures of the employee and supervisor, and retain for documentation.