How to draft an effective position description

Position descriptions play a key role in making sure employees have a clear idea of what their job expectations are and what responsibilities and duties they are required to perform. 

Position descriptions are a written statement describing the purpose or objective of a job. This consists of a list of tasks performed by the individual, and a description of how, and under what conditions, they perform the job. 

Writing a position description forms the foundation for many important processes that are involved in running your practice. These can include recruitment and selection, setting expectations, and assists with relevant training and performance management of staff. 

Position descriptions should include:

• the position title and its purpose;
• a clear description of the role of the job;
• how the position aligns with your company’s vision; and
• a formulated list of key responsibilities, requirements, qualifications and skills needed to perform the task.

Having clear and up-to-date position descriptions benefits the employer, employee and the business by providing structure and clarity in the daily function of the company. Position descriptions are particularly important when classifying your employees and determining their minimum rate of pay. To assist with appropriately classifying your staff under the Health Professional and Support Service Award 2020 and the Nurses Award 2020, you need to have a clear understanding of what the individual’s role consists of. 

What is the best way to improve your current position descriptions? 
A simple way that can help reduce the stress of having to write an accurate position description for a role you are not in yourself, is getting an employee already working in that role to assist. If you are planning to hire a new employee, or wish to revise your current position descriptions, it would be beneficial to have someone already in that position or area to assist. 

An effective approach is to have the staff member write down what tasks, duties and other responsibilities they perform throughout the day. It is important that both the employee and manager understand why each task is important, how it effects productivity in the organisation and what differentiates them from their colleagues in the same area. 

Please reach out to our Workplace Relations Team on (07) 3872 2222 or at workplacerelations@amaq.com.au if you need assistance with writing position descriptions.