Non-Exempt Job Category Level 9
July 1, 2007
 
Nature of Job:
Exercising independent judgment and accountability are the hallmarks of level nine positions. Incumbents must demonstrate that they are proactive in carrying out assigned job functions, supervision is minimal and not on a day-to-day basis. Adaptability and flexibility in responding to emerging needs of the department/unit are essential, as are analytical skills and critical thinking. The incumbent is expected to manage resources under her/his supervision effectively and, when indicated, to demonstrate innovation in improving business processes including technological solutions. Initiative is an essential characteristic of holders of the level nine designation, as is the ability to coordinate complex activities that often extend to multiple departments.

Characteristics and Responsibilities:
 

• Oversees operations, projects, functions, programs and/or processes, ensuring compliance with University, local, state, and federal policies and regulations.
• Independently resolves problems/issues; asks for feedback to monitor success/achievement of assigned responsibilities. Anticipates issues and proactively seeks resolution.
• Establishes and maintains systems for monitoring processes and results achieved. Recommends, plans, and implements business process improvements. Effectively applies innovative technological solutions.
• Seeks to improve own work function and performance of unit; pursues additional responsibilities.
• Provides timely and accurate information in a format that is efficient and understandable.
• Conducts analyses to identify costs, risks, and alternatives. Oversees reconciliation and financial reporting activities; administers highly complex fiscal transactions/reconciliations. Safeguards University resources.
• Uses a well-ordered approach to analyze and interpret information; applies policy/procedures/protocols to sensitive, highly complex issues.
• Develops and utilizes a network of contacts and resources to facilitate work in an effective manner; discusses mutual expectations with internal and external contacts; acts as a mentor/resource/trainer. Willing to learn from others and seeks their input when appropriate.
• Responds positively to customer expectations and needs; proactively, continuously improves practices and services; maintains liaison with relevant departments.
• Performs a wide range of complex/technical tasks, responds proactively to new assignments and/or changes in direction or priority. Recommends deviation from established procedures when the situation warrants.
• Presents information and conducts events on behalf of the University. Coordinates/supports projects, committees, and activities across multiple units.

Knowledge/Experience/Skills/Abilities:
Associate's degree or equivalent college level course work and at least eight years of progressively responsible work-related experience. Directly related job experience beyond a high school diploma, vocational/technical school certificate or GED may be substituted for required education. Specialized education and training may be required. Outstanding human relations skills and the ability to motivate others in the department/unit to perform effectively and when required to undertake new initiatives are required. Outstanding technological competence is required, as is the ability to supervise staff, prioritize, and schedule their work assignments and foster a collegial work environment. This requires that the incumbent be able to independently evaluate and prioritize assignments, analyze, and solve problems with little or no supervision and effectively coordinate and implement assigned programs and projects. Implementation and accountability of a sound record keeping system and effective business practices is a job requirement.

The incumbent is expected to not only handle competing demands on the department/unit staff’s time and energies, but also be able to present proposed resolutions for change that will lessen such pressures. This requires a knowledge of cost analysis techniques, technological applications, data gathering procedures, critical thinking, and decision-making that often involves the thoughtful integration of complex pieces of information/data critical to the functioning of the unit. Effective communication skills, ability to write clearly and logically, and to communicate complex transactions/technical matters in a clear and concise manner is required, as are tact and diplomacy in the execution of assigned responsibilities. High degrees of independent thought, judgment, discretion, and self-motivation are necessary in the day-to-day operation of activities, projects, tasks, the department or unit. Unique to the level nine position is the requirement that the incumbent is expected to argue for the implementation of suggestions and recommendations for the more effective running of the department/unit and be provided an avenue for doing so on a regular basis.
 
The characteristics and responsibilities are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties assigned to position.