Frequently Asked Questions

Job Analysis Questionnaire (JAQ) Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Job Analysis Questionnaire (JAQ)?

The JAQ is a data collection instrument designed to gather specific information about duties, responsibilities, essential functions, and physical requirements of a particular job and not the person in the job.

What is the purpose of the JAQ?

The JAQ is used to support the compensation competitive analysis and job classification project which will be conducted by CBIZ Compensation Consulting.

Having proper and current job documentation has several other uses. The data from the JAQ can support processes like updating job descriptions, posting for job openings, identifying career opportunities, building development plans, and aiding in performance discussions.

Where do I even begin?

A good place to start would be your job description to refresh your memory and be sure you do not leave out any tasks. Only use your job description as a starting point and not an aid while you fill out the questionnaire. We want to know what your job is, not what your job is supposed to be. A conversation with your supervisor may also be helpful.

The questionnaire is rather lengthy. How long will this take me to complete?

The JAQ is the length that it is because CBIZ needs to be made aware of every aspect of your job. Also, the questionnaire has plenty of questions that may not apply to your job, therefore, those questions can be omitted. Your supervisor has been instructed to give you as much time as you need to thoroughly complete this questionnaire while on the clock. Typically, the questionnaire will take an individual between 20 minutes and an hour.

Do I need to complete the JAQ all at one time?

No. If you are completing the web-based JAQ, you can save your progress and return later using the same link you used to start the JAQ.

My coworker and I have the exact same job and do the exact same tasks; can we turn in one questionnaire for the both of us?

No. The questionnaire will be used to ensure that you really are performing the same tasks. This may also aid in writing more accurate job descriptions. Feel free to work on the job analysis questionnaire at the same time and discuss it, but we are looking for individual JAQs.

Will the JAQ be used to evaluate my position for elimination from the organization?

No. The purpose of the JAQ is to ensure that we regularly validate our job documentation and support the compensation competitive assessment and job classification project.

If I fill out this JAQ, what is in it for me?

Completing the JAQ will provide the information CBIZ needs to most accurately assess the pay range assigned. The pay range associated with your job may change. This does not necessarily mean that you will receive a pay increase, however we can assure you that there will be no pay decrease through this exercise.

What happens if I don’t complete the JAQ?

If you do not complete the JAQ, your existing job description will be the single source of information used to analyze your position. If the existing job description is not accurate, this could lead to misalignment in CBIZ’s competitive compensation analysis.

What if I don’t have a current job description to help me answer some of the questions?

Consult with your supervisor to assist you with answering any questions you may have. What is most important is what you do, not necessarily what is included in an old position description.

Will my supervisor review and have final approval of the information I provide in the JAQ?

Yes. Supervisors will review and approve all information submitted by employees.