Article 26

Merit Promotion

Section 1--Purpose and Policy

It is the intent of the parties to redesign the merit promotion process as a corollary to the two tier appraisal system created in Article 21 and to assure openness and objectivity in merit promotion selections.

The parties agree that the purpose and intent of the provisions contained herein are to ensure that merit promotion principles are applied in a consistent manner with equity to all employees and without regard to political, religious, or labor organization affiliation or non-affiliation, marital status, race, color, sex, national origin, disabling condition, or age, and shall be based solely on job-related criteria.  This article sets forth the merit promotion system, policies, and procedures applicable to bargaining unit positions in the Administration.

Section 2--Development of Career Pathways

A. The parties will explore various means of enhancing career opportunities, including but not limited to career ladders, intercomponent movement, broad banding, etc.

B. The parties are committed to establishing career ladder positions within the organization in those situations where positions and functions can be grouped in a way compatible with program and work considerations.

C. The parties agree to develop and implement career ladder positions utilizing the following process:

1. Joint union and management committees will be established within 60 days of the effective date of this agreement.

a. Each SSA Component (Deputy Commissioner level) will establish a joint committee with appropriate and necessary subcommittees

b. Membership will include bargaining unit representatives appointed by the union. The parties at the appropriate component level will jointly develop the committee(s) make-up.

c. The committees will have appropriate personnel and classification support.