Classification Review and Approval Process Prior to Use

Vacancies create a critical opportunity for departments to evaluate their organizational structures and ensure efficiency in the way work is performed. The University and the Division of Human Resources recommend evaluating classifications whenever vacancies arise, with particular attention to certain positions.

 

Classifications Requiring HR Compensation Approval

Certain classifications require HR Compensation approval prior to initiating a posting due to the high level of impact on University operations and/or the way the classification’s scope depends on current business operations. This approval process pertains to classifications meeting one or more of the following criteria:

NEW classifications that are not currently established in the requesting Level 5 org with a position class code “7” or higher as a second digit (e.g. A7085) WILL REQUIRE HR Compensation approval before posting.

BACKFILL classifications with a position class code “7” or higher as a second digit (e.g. A7085) DO NOT REQUIRE HR Compensation approval IF the position has been filled in the requesting department org within the past twelve (12) months AND there are no significant changes to the primary responsibilities of the job.

Job Series Requiring HR Compensation Approval
Applies to all NEW and BACKFILL classifications
Program Series

Guidance regarding Program Series titles is available through the HR webpage linked here.
Strategic Series
Job Series Requiring Additional Approvals Before Use
Applies to all NEW and BACKFILL classifications
 

Job series listed below require additional approval from other University departments before use.

For job series listed below that meet the criteria in the Classifications Requiring HR Compensation Approval section of this document, Comp approval must also be also obtained.

Series Classification Approval Authority
Academic Advisor Series Office of Advising Strategies
Student Success Series Office of Advising Strategies
Development Series UNM Foundation
Marketing (select titles) University Communications & Marketing

 

Other Classifications Requiring Review

Upon receiving a submitted requisition for posting, classifications that meet the following criteria will be reviewed by Human Resources to ensure proper use and/or approvals are submitted:

  • Department-specific classifications (e.g. Alumni Relations)
  • Single incumbent classifications as designated in the job description
  • Classifications supporting a specific reporting line as designated in the job description

 

Classification Request Process

A department must submit a request to HR Compensation when a classification requires Compensation approval. For quick submission, access the online Classification for Posting request form available at this link. Alternatively, a department may submit the following to comp@unm.edu:

  • A brief summary of the duties and responsibilities of the position including financial and supervisory responsibilities
  • An organizational chart

Requestors should work with their respective organizational leadership to identify any internal approvals that must be obtained prior to submitting to Human Resources.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m not sure which classification fits my department’s need. Can I obtain assistance from HR to identify an appropriate title?

Yes. HR Compensation can evaluate any request, regardless of whether it meets the above criteria, and provide insights on an appropriate classification to meet your organizational needs.

Does this process pertain solely to new hires?

No. This process also applies to other compensation actions, including reclassifications and career ladders. Additional HR review is required for all requests for use of classifications meeting the above criteria, whether the use is the result of a new hire or other classification movement.