As part of the Grading Service Review recommendations, we are pleased to confirm the launch of a set of standardised (generic) job descriptions (SJDs) to support more consistent and efficient recruitment & job evaluation practices across the University. These will serve as a starting point for discussions between hiring managers and local HR teams. The new set of SJDs include roles most frequently submitted for job evaluation in recent years. They will be available on the Reward webpages from 29 July 2025, alongside updated guidance on HERA and the job evaluation process.
We would like to thank all colleagues who contributed through workshops, feedback sessions, and content reviews—your input has been invaluable in shaping this important resource.
Generic vs standardised job descriptions
For the time being, both generic and standardised job descriptions may be used for recruitment and regrading. As we move forward, the Reward Team will review the existing generics to ensure they remain up to date and consider alignment with the new SJD format as appropriate.
Where to go for help?
To support the launch, we are introducing a new Ms Teams channel Standardised JDs launch - questions and answers:
Who: All staff involved in recruitment and grading processes
What: A publicly accessible Teams channel where you can post questions on SJDs and job evaluation
When: Questions can be posted at any time; the Reward Team will review and respond daily between 10:00am–11:00am
Where: Standardised JDs launch - questions and answers (Ms Teams channel)
If needed, the Reward team may follow up via direct message or a call. However, we encourage all queries to be posted in the channel so others can benefit from shared learning. All questions and responses will be reviewed over the next three months and used to develop a formal FAQ, which will be published on the Reward webpages. This support will run until October 2025, after which it will transition into a broader Grading Community of Practice to continue knowledge-sharing and engagement.
Changes to the staff request process
The launch will be accompanied by a simplified approval process for staff requests which does not require full evaluation (i.e. Existing Post - New Contract; New Post – Generic JD; Replacement/Refill; etc.). Updated HR System user guides will be released in mid-July on the HR System pages. To ensure the submitted requests (which await departmental approval) do not get deleted during the update please ensure these are reviewed and approved by 18 July latest with no new requests after that date.
The Reward team will continue to review requests and set up posts/appointments until 25 July and resume evaluations on 29 July.
For support with technical queries please email hr.systems@admin.ox.ac.uk
