Job descriptions are used for employee recruitment and selection.

They outline the minimum requirements of a role and give jobseekers a clear idea of what an employer will expect from them. They are aimed at potential applicants, and are useful as a screening tool to help deter unsuitable applicants and attract suitable ones. As a rule they should include the general tasks, functions, and responsibilities of a role. Apart from being used in job adverts, they can also form part of a legally-binding contract of employment.

This page will give you an idea of what to include in a job description, as well as links to expertly written pages that will help you to write up your own effective job descriptions.

Writing up a job description

Keep the job description brief and to the point, be sure to explain the overall purpose of the job, and to describe where the role fits in an organisation. Apart from including the tasks and duties that are involved, also list the competencies that are essential and desirable for the role.

Job descriptions should include the vacancies;

  • Job title
  • Position Summary
  • Duties
  • Responsibilities
  • Accountabilities
  • Working conditions
  • Working schedule
  • Supervisory responsibilities
  • Financial responsibilities
  • Physical demands
  • Compensation and salary
  • Goals to be achieved

 

Job descriptions should list a job applicants required;

  • Certifications
  • Experience
  • Knowledge
  • Qualifications
  • Skill sets
  • Training

 

Job descriptions should be;

  • Accurate
  • Clear
  • Concise
  • Complete
  • Easy to understand

 

Apart from recruiting staff, job descriptions can also be used for;

  • Interviewing candidates
  • Performance reviews
  • Goal setting

 

Job description links

CEO job description

Office Manager job description

Paralegal job description

Project Manager job description

Sales Manager job description