The University compensation and classification system provides classification titles that are descriptive of the work performed. However, when a more specific title would serve the unit’s operational interests, a working title may be used to describe the function of the position in even greater detail or more easily recognized terms in both internal and external communications.

A “working title” should more clearly or precisely describe the function, responsibilities or scope of an individual job assignment, and thereby provide a more immediate understanding of the job in business communications. Employing units may use working titles to differentiate between similar roles in a workgroup, or to distinguish between similar specialties within a classification. The working title should use those terms that are most easily recognized and understood by internal and external constituencies.

Acceptable Use of Working Titles

Working titles may be used in lieu of the University classification title for:

• Searches and job postings
• Local job descriptions and employee personnel records
• Regular business correspondence, both internal and external to the University, and
• The public University directory (lists both classification and working title).

The University job classification title will be the default if no working title is established.

Determining the Need for a Working Title

In determining the need for a working title, the supervisor and staff member should consider the following:

Step 1: Does the University job classification title adequately describe the function of the job assignment for professional business communications inside and/or outside the University?

• If yes, there is no need to request a working title.
• If no, continue to question 2.

Step 2: Are there other terms that would more specifically and accurately describe the function of the job assignment, and provide more immediate recognition?

• If yes, go to question 3.

Step 3: Would a working title provide a more accurate and recognizable understanding of the relationship between jobs and/or functions within a work unit or organization?

• If yes, review the University Guidelines for the Optional use of Working Titles and any additional guidelines your College/Division/Organization may establish for the use of working titles.

Staff members and supervisors should discuss their interest in a working title with their departmental leadership and Human Resources Representative. When an appropriate working title has been identified, the Human Resources Representative will initiate the formal request using "Working Titles" in Self Service.

Working titles must be approved by the Senior Human Resources Leader for the college/division prior to use. The Senior Human Resources Leader’s review and approval will be based upon compliance with the University expectations below, and any additional organizational guidelines that may be established within a specific college or division. The Senior Human Resources Leader may include consideration of the consistency of titles within units or professions, and/or other relevant factors when approving requests for working titles. The Senior Human Resources Leader may also change or withdraw approval of a working title with notice to the individual(s) impacted.

A Working Title Should

• Provide a more specific description of the function or work performed to better facilitate business communications.
• Add clarity to the University’s classification assignment in describing the individual role.
• Be consistent with professional/industry practice.
• Be consistent with other working titles within a job family and/or work unit.

A Working Title Cannot

• Duplicate a title used in another employee group, e.g. Faculty, SEIU or Merit.
• Be exactly the same as another professional and scientific classification. Some modification in the title must be made to provide a more specific description of the responsibilities of the job.
• Misrepresent the University or the authority of the position in any way. The use of “inflated” titles can create inaccurate expectations of the individual role.
• Use any title that includes the words Vice President or Provost; the title of Dean; or other titled positions that are recognized as institutional officers, e.g. University Secretary or University Treasurer. These titles require specific permission and approval by University Human Resources and in some cases, the Board of Regents.

Examples of Acceptable Working Titles

• University Classification Title: Potential Working Titles
• Accountant: Grant Accountant; Payroll Accountant
• IT Support Consultant:  Desktop Support Consultant; Help Desk Manager
• Research Specialist: Geologist; Project Archaeologist
• Senior HR Specialist: Senior Benefits Specialist; Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist