Article 18
Position Classification

Section 1. Desk Audits

Absent extenuating circumstances, the Union will be provided at least five work days notice prior to the desk audit of an employee in the bargaining unit and may briefly consult with such an employee upon receipt of such notice. Notices will identify the employee, position, and the reason the audit is being conducted. In addition, where the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has notified the Department that it intends to conduct an audit of a bargaining unit employee pursuant to a classification appeal, the Department will notify the Union.

Section 2. Classification Audits

The Union will be provided a timely notice of personnel management evaluations conducted by either the Department or OPM which will involve classification audits of bargaining unit employees.

Section 3. Classification Appeals

a. Employees have a right to appeal the classification of their positions in accordance with Department of Labor and OPM regulations.
b. An employee may request a classification audit when the employee believes that a material change has occurred in the position the employee encumbers. The audit shall be conducted within a reasonable period of time. After completion of the audit, the employee shall be provided in writing the management determination.

Section 4. Position Classification

Management will maintain an accurate position description for each position which reflects the significant duties of the employee filling the position.

Section 5. Equal Pay for Equal Work

The parties agree to the principle of equal pay for substantially equal work.