Transfers - Consecutive and Specific Situations

SPB RULE 435
In general, Rule 435 prohibits single or consecutive transfers that result in classification-level increases equivalent to two or more salary steps. This is to ensure adherence to the basic principle that promotions in civil service must occur through competitive examinations. However, when an employee transfers to a deep classification, subsequent range advancements within the deep classification may move the employee to a salary level that is two steps or more higher than the pay level of the last classification in which the employee held a list appointment. Even though this occurs, the employee should still be allowed to transfer out of the deep classification to other classifications that are exactly at or below the pay level reached in the deep classification, since by providing a deep classification the SPB has sanctioned movement to that level by meeting alternate range criteria, rather than by examination. However, further advancement cannot be allowed without a list appointment, except that the employee may transfer to a classification to which s/he could have transferred directly from his/her last or highest list appointment classification.

SUMMARY
In summary, a consecutive transfer involving a deep classification is appropriate when:

1. The employee could have transferred into the “to” classification from the classification of his/her last or highest list appointment.
   
   For example: An employee with a list appointment to Management Services Technician who progresses to Range B of that classification, transfers to Staff Services Analyst, Range A, then progresses through Range B, to Range C, could later transfer to Range B of Park and Recreation Specialist, even though Range C of that classification is three steps higher than the maximum range of Staff Services Analyst. This is permissible because the employee could have transferred to the Park and Recreation Specialist, Range B from the last or highest list appointment classification, Management Services Technician.
   
   
2. The highest range of the “from” classification is equal to or higher than the highest range of the “to” classification in which the employee gains permanent status (has passed probation).
   
   For example: An employee who transfers to Staff Services Analyst Range A, progresses through Range B, to Range C, could later transfer to any classification with a maximum salary range of Staff Services Analyst, Range C or lower.

It is important to note that these special controls apply only to subsequent transfers of employees who have transferred into a deep classification. Employees with list appointments to deep classifications may transfer out based on the regular standards outlined in SPB Rule 433.

DGS encourages its staff to consider voluntary transfers within the appropriate legal and policy requirements. However, specific transfer situations may require additional analysis on a case-by-case basis in collaboration with the Classification and Pay (C&P) Analyst.