FAQ - Classification

Does the EA administer the classification program?

No, TVA develops, implements, and administers the classification program. TVA will obtain input and advice from the EA in the development of the classification program. The classification of positions is based on a classification plan which conforms to the principle of equal pay for equal work.

How is the classification program administered?

Management allocates positions to job families, classes of work, job titles and levels based on the full range of duties and responsibilities a qualified employee can be expected to perform after a reasonable break-in period. In determining the relative difficulty and responsibility of the work and the level to which the position will be assigned, classification standards are used. You can contact the EA office to get a copy of the classification standards for EA represented positions.

After assigning positions to a classification group (Engineering, Information Technology, etc.) and level (Senior, Specialist, etc.), a job description is developed. A job description is a report statement which describes the content of an individual position or a group of positions. The purpose of the job description in classification is to describe the major duties and responsibilities of the position and the minimum qualifications needed to perform the work.

The final phase of the initial development of a position is when TVA and the EA jointly negotiate a market rate (midpoint) for each job description.

Can management assign me work assignments that are outside my job description?

Yes, job descriptions do not keep management from assigning employees related work which is not mentioned in their job descriptions. This includes assignments made for training.

What is a position reclassification and when do these occur?

A reclassification is distinguished from status changes such as transfer, demotion, or promotion of an employee to a new or different position. A “reclassification” results when a position is reviewed, and it is determined that there is a change in job family level or duties and responsibilities. Ordinarily, the addition or deletion of duties and responsibilities is gradual over a period of time.

What if an employee feels they are improperly classified by TVA?

The employee can file a grievance to be properly classified. A classification dispute arises when an employee disagrees with their assignment by TVA to a classification or level or when the employee feels the work he or she is performing is outside his or her current classification or level. 

An employee must file a classification dispute within 20 calendar days of the assignment or at any time the employee feels his or her work has exceeded his or her current classification or level. The dispute shall be filed on a grievance form and submitted to the responsible department supervisor. TVA will distribute the grievance form to the EA.

Whose responsibility is it to make sure my job description is accurate?

For occupied positions, supervisors are to secure the active participation of employees in keeping the job description accurate and current.