Special Pay

woman sitting with laptop, thinkingIn addition to regular pay, there are several circumstances that might warrant special pay, each with its own requirements and guidelines. The use of these special pay options varies widely across the institution, based on business needs.

Please be certain to discuss special pay considerations with your appropriate HR business partner before making arrangements with employees.

Types of Pay

On-Call Pay

On-call pay compensates staff members for reporting to work based on university operational needs. The pay is based on several factors, including length and frequency of on-call coverage, required response time, and comparable on-call practices within the university and in outside organizations.

Shift Differential Pay

Shift differential pay is additional pay to staff for working a designated shift based on departmental needs. It is determined based on shift hours worked and competitive pay practices at comparable organizations.

Acting Pay

Acting pay is awarded to a staff member who has temporarily assumed significant responsibilities for a higher-level job for a period longer than one month. The responsibilities are usually performed in addition to a staff member’s primary duties.

Discretionary Bonus

A discretionary bonus recognizes exceptional performance, significant contribution, and substantial accomplishments beyond normal work responsibility. The bonus is given at the discretion of management and paid as a lump sum that does not increase base salary.