Rating Scale Definitions – Online Help

Scale Name	Scale Description	Scale Instructions	Response Options	Response Option Proportional Weight	Base Value
General Schedule (Default)	Differentiates among applicants based on the level of independence with which they have performed a task.	Select the one statement that most accurately describes your training and experience carrying out each task using the scale provided.	All except Job Element	A. I have not had education, training, or experience in performing this task. B. I have had education or training in how to perform this task, but have not yet performed it on the job. C. I have performed this task on the job. My work on this task was monitored closely by a supervisor or senior employee to ensure compliance with proper procedures. D. I have performed this task as a regular part of a job. I have performed it independently and normally without review by a supervisor or senior employee. E. I am considered an expert in performing this task. I have supervised performance of this task or am normally the person who is consulted by other workers to assist or train them in doing this task because of my expertise.	0 1 2 3 4
Wage Grade Default	Differentiates among applicants based on demonstrated ability to perform the work of the position.	Select the one statement that most accurately describes your training and experience carrying out each task using the scale provided.	Job Element, Calculated	A. I know little or nothing about this. B. I have had study or training in this. C. I have used my knowledge or ability, but I have been closely supervised. D. I have used my knowledge or ability on my own, under normal supervision. E. I am consulted by other journeypersons in difficult situations, or I am called on to do unusually difficult jobs.	0 1 2 3 4
Yes/No (Default)	Yes/No	Select “Yes” or “No” to the following question(s).	All	A. Yes B. No	2 0
Level of Knowledge Scale	Differentiates among applicants based on their knowledge of an area of expertise.	For each knowledge area, select the one response that most accurately describes your current level of knowledge using the scale below.	All except Job Element	A. I have no knowledge of this area. B. I have the knowledge to understand general issues and/or contribute opinions during a casual conversation concerning topics in this area. C. I have the knowledge to teach at the high school level or train novices about issues in this area. D. I have the knowledge to teach at the college undergraduate level or to train entry-level professionals about issues in this area. E. I have the knowledge to teach at the graduate level or to train professionals in this area.	0 1 2 3 4
Level of Knowledge Scale (Higher Complexity)	Differentiates among applicants based on their knowledge of an area of expertise. Appropriate for use with highly complex or highly technical positions where applicants and incumbents are subject matter experts or technical experts.	For each knowledge area, select the one response that most accurately describes your current level of knowledge using the scale below.	All except Job Element	A. I have no knowledge of this area. B. I have the knowledge to teach at the high school level or train novices about issues in this area. C. I have the knowledge to teach at the college undergraduate level or to train entry-level professionals about issues in this area. D. I have the knowledge to teach at the graduate level or to train professionals in this area. E. I have the knowledge to write a textbook for graduate or undergraduate study in this area or to develop industry-wide guidance or policy in this area.	0 1 2 3 4
Experience/Demonstrated Capability (Entry-Level)	Differentiates among applicants based on experience and/or demonstrated capability to perform a task.	For each item, select the one response that most accurately describes your current level of experience and capability using the scale below.	All except Job Element	A. I do not have experience or demonstrated capability in performing this activity, but I am willing to learn. B. I have limited experience in performing this activity. I have had exposure to this activity but would require additional guidance, instruction, or experience to perform it at a satisfactory level. C. I have a fair amount of experience and a fair amount of demonstrated capability in performing this activity. I can perform this activity satisfactorily but could benefit from additional guidance, instruction, or experience to perform this activity more effectively. D. I have considerable experience and considerable demonstrated capability in performing this activity.I can perform this activity independently and effectively. E. I have extensive experience and extensive demonstrated capability in performing this activity. I am considered an expert; I am able to train or assist others; and my work is typically not reviewed by a supervisor. I have received verbal and/or written recognition from others in carrying out this activity.	0 1 2 3 4
Experience/Demonstrated Capability (Higher Complexity)	Differentiates among applicants based on experience and/or demonstrated capability across varying situations and level of supervision required to perform a task. Appropriate for use with higher-level positions for which applicants and incumbents are likely to have more extensive experience.	For each item, select the one response that most accurately describes your current level of experience and capability using the scale below.	All except Job Element	A. I have no experience in performing this work behavior, but I am willing to learn. B. I have limited experience in performing this work behavior. I have had exposure to this work behavior but would require additional guidance, instruction, or experience to perform it at a proficient level. C. I have experience performing this work behavior across routine or predictable situations with minimal supervision or guidance. D. I have performed this work behavior independently across a wide range of situations. I have assisted others in carrying out this work behavior. I seek guidance in carrying out this work behavior only in unusually complex situations. E. I am considered an expert in carrying out this work behavior. I advise and instruct others in carrying out this work behavior on a regular basis. I am consulted by my colleagues and/or supervisors to carry out this work behavior in unusually complex situations.	0 1 2 3 4
Technical Competence	Differentiates among applicants based on ability to demonstrate understanding of a specific technical area.	For each technical area below, select the response that most accurately describes your current level of experience and demonstrated capability.	All except Job Element	A. I have no knowledge or demonstrated capability in this technical area. B. I can demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental concepts involved in this technical area. I will require formal training and close supervision to perform this work. C. I can demonstrate an understanding of some advanced concepts within this technical area and am capable of working on most projects in this technical area with moderate assistance. I am able to perform this work with minimal supervision. D. I can demonstrate an understanding of many advanced concepts within this technical area and am capable of mentoring others on some projects in this technical area. I am able to perform this work without supervision except in the most complex situations. E. I can demonstrate an understanding of most advanced concepts within this technical area. I am considered an expert in the field and am frequently consulted by others about this technical area. I am responsible for mentoring and training others in this technical area.	0 1 2 3 4