Job specification

A job specification outlines specific traits a person needs to do the job. Typically, that includes the
qualifications, skills and personal traits you need to be successful. Usually, the job specification follows
the job description, which describes the job itself and how that job fits within the company.
Specification focuses on the person filling the position. That means you'll see things such as a general
description of the job, specific duties, environment and location in the job description. In the job
specification, you'll see things such as educational requirements, training, technical skills, experience
and a personality traits they company desires for the person filling the role.

Education Requirements
Jobs require varying levels of education, depending on the position. An entry-level office clerk position
may only require a high school diploma, whereas human resources director requirements might
list a bachelor's or master's degree as the minimum education requirement. Some positions require
a specific major and degree type to qualify. For example, teachers need education degrees in the
area in which they want to teach, and lawyers need a law degree and to pass the state bar exam to
practice.

Examples:

 Must have a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance.

 Requires a Ph.D. in health science, biology or related field.

Licenses, Certifications and Credentials

Some careers require you to have a specific license, certification or other credentials to perform the
work. These credentials are often issued at the state level with the requirements varying based on
state government requirements. Teachers in public schools typically need state teaching licenses, for
example, which may require a bachelor's degree, exam and background check. Look at the job
specification to determine if you need to have valid credentials before you apply or if you can earn
your credentials after being hired.

Examples:
 Candidates must possess a valid Texas elementary-school teaching license.
 Candidates must have a a current, active Texas RN license.

Related Work Experience

Sometimes, employers want a specific number of years of experience in the field or work experience
in related responsibilities. For example, a marketing manager job description might specific a
minimum number of years in the marketing field and experience with digital marketing. Typically, entry-
level positions don't have work experience requirements, but management or advanced careers often
want you to have a certain amount of experience.

Examples:

 Must have a minimum of five years of marketing work experience, including email and content
marketing.
 Must have at least two years of technical writing or related experience.

Required Skills
The required skills section goes a little deeper than the required experience, outlining specific skills or
knowledge in the field that you need. Often, these skills relate directly to the duties of the job. You
can expect a greater number of required skills and knowledge for a higher position within a company.
Entry-level jobs often allow that a candidate will pick up many of those skills on the job, whereas
management positions require that you possess the skills before you apply.

Examples:
 Has proven experience managing social media accounts.
 Is proficient in MS Office programs.
 Has demonstrated written and verbal communication skills.
 Has proven case management skills.

Personality Traits

Although required skills are things you can learn or gain through hands-on experience, personality
traits are traits that you naturally possess. These are the traits that make the job easier to handle or
that make you more successful at completing job duties.

Examples:

 Has the ability to remain calm under pressure.

 Is able to problem solve without supervision or guidance.
 Has a high level of professionalism.
 Is able to maintain confidentiality and to use discretion in all interactions.
Qualifications:

Knowledge:

Skills:

Professional or legal certifications:

Physical attributes:

Working conditions: