ERA classification: which pay grade applies to me?

ERA classification is based on the job, not on your formal qualification, job title or years of experience. What is assessed is the work task itself: the knowledge and skill it requires, how much scope for decisions and action it involves, and what responsibility comes with it. Two people with the same degree can therefore sit in different pay grades if their tasks differ.

It rests on a single evaluation method that rates each task against several requirement criteria. The sum of that assessment yields the pay grade – from EG 1 for simple, tightly prescribed tasks up to the highest grades for highly qualified, self-directed work. The formal classification is done by the employer together with the works council; the overview below is orientation, not a binding classification.

What the classification actually rates

Knowledge & skill

The expertise, skills and experience the task requires – acquired through training, further education or practice.

Scope for decisions & action

How tightly the task is prescribed and how independently decisions are made and carried out.

Responsibility

Responsibility for processes, quality, cost, safety or leading other employees.

Communication & cooperation

The demands on coordination, guidance and cooperation with other areas.