Defining Job Duties
It is extremely important that the duties of a position be clearly defined, whether it is a new position in your department, or a recently vacated position.
Defining job duties involves evaluating the position and how it fits into your current department direction. If the job responsibilities are clear, this sets up your employee for success and assist you in performance management and employee retention.
When describing the basic functions and responsibilities of the position, list those duties that are recognized as being the primary duties and functions; occupy a significant portion of time; and are performed on a regular or recurring basis.
Duties should also include level of supervision and customer interaction to be performed. Be sure to include notes in the duties section for any special circumstances such as:
- appointment information
- hours
- shifts
- limited term appointment
- travel, offsite locations
- weekend work
- overtime
Examples of Job Duties for Two Sample Jobs
1. Research Assistant I/II Health Science Job Duties:
- Conduct experimental laboratory research work in the health sciences, including animal studies;
- Test and evaluate experimental procedures;
- Assist in judging the validity of experimental test data obtained;
- Prepare data for presentation and/or publication;
- Execute designed experiment, including the procurement of space, supplies, and related equipment;
- Prepare graphs and other illustrations to facilitate the interpretation of research findings'
- Write research progress reports, including summarizing test results of participating investigators, and assist in the preparation of papers for publication;
- Instruct students and other in methods and instrument operation.
2. Accounts Receivable Clerk Job Duties:
- Generate bills and collect payments;
- Post payments and denials into computer system;
- Contact parties (insurance companies, patients) owing monies to collect payments;
- Maintain and verify accuracy of Accounts Receivable transaction records both on the computer and in paper files;
- Investigate billing discrepancies with patients, vendors, and insurance agencies;
- Prepare reports.
