The University's compensation and classification system uses classification titles that broadly describe work functions. However, to better represent the specific duties or professional identity of a role, the units may assign working titles. These alternative titles are especially useful in internal and external communications where greater clarity or recognition is beneficial.

Purpose of a Working Title

A working title can:

• Clearly describe the position’s function, responsibilities, or scope
• Enhance both internal and external communications
• Differentiate similar roles or specialties within a classification

Acceptable Uses of Working Titles

Working titles may replace the University classification title for:

• Job searches and postings
• Local job descriptions and employee records
• Business correspondence, both internally and externally
• The public University directory (where both classification title and working title are displayed)

Note: If no working title is designated, the University classification title remains the default.

Determining the Need for a Working Title

1. Assess the Existing Title: Does the current University classification title adequately describe the position for all professional communications?
   • Yes: No working title is needed.
   • No: Proceed to Step 2.
2. Consider Alternatives: Are there more precise or recognizable terms to define the job’s function?
   • Yes: Proceed to Step 3.
3. Evaluate the Impact: Would a working title improve understanding of the relationship between roles or clarify job functions within your organization?
   • Yes: Follow the established guidelines for working titles from your Organization, College or Division.

Working Title Approval Process

1. Initial Discussion: Collaborate with departmental leadership and the Human Resources Representative to identify a suitable working title.
2. Formal Request Submission: Once a title is agreed upon, the HR Representative will submit the request through Self Service.
3. Senior HR Leader Review & Approval: The Senior HR Leader for the respective college or division will review the request based on:
   • Compliance with University guidelines. 
   • Alignment with college/division-specified practices.
   • Consistency across similar roles.
   • Accuracy and appropriateness of the title.
4. Final Decision: The Senior HR Leader has the authority to approve, modify, or withdraw approval, with appropriate notice.

Requirements for a Working Title

A working title should:

• Provide a specific description of the work performed.
• Complement the University’s classification by clarifying the role.
• Align with industry and professional standards.
• Be consistent with other titles within the same job family or unit.

A working title must not:

• Duplicate titles used in another employee group (e.g., Faculty, SEIU, Merit, or Student employees).
• Exactly replicate an existing classification title without meaningful differentiation.
• Misrepresent the University or its authority (avoid inflated titles).
• Include restricted terms (e.g., Vice President, Provost, Dean, University Secretary, or University Treasurer or other institutional officer titles) unless specifically authorized by University HR and/or the Board of Regents.

Examples of Acceptable Working Titles

Example of an Inflated Working Title

An employee's official University classification title is "IT Support Consultant." An inflated working title for this position might be "Director of IT Solutions." 

• This title implies a level of authority, strategic oversight, and leadership that the actual role does not encompass.
• This not only conflicts with the intent of providing clarity but could also disrupt how roles are compared across departments or against industry benchmarks.