Classification
The two major groups of permanent employees at the University are referred to as SHRA and EHRA. While these two groups are all state employees and have many similarities, some differences exist in terms of benefits, leave allowances and policies.
Both of these classifications refer to the North Carolina Human Resources Act, which establishes the State Human Resources Systems and outlines parameters for position classification, salary, and many personnel policies and programs for employees paid entirely or in part from federal funds. As a State entity, Appalachian State University is subject to this Act, and University positions are administered in accordance with the provisions and requirements of that Act.
SHRA
Positions covered by the NC Human Resources Act are referred to as SHRA positions — SHRA is an abbreviation for “Subject to the NC Human Resources Act.” SHRA positions include most, but not all, staff positions.
The creation of new SHRA positions, classification changes to positions, and salary increases are managed by the Classification & Compensation Unit within the Office of Human Resources. As the needs of departments change and positions evolve, this Group assists current employees by providing them with the necessary information for making career growth decisions.
NOTE: All actions submitted to the Office of Human Resources will be responded to in the order they are received.
- Career Banding Salary Rates (updated 6.1.25)
- Career Banding Competency Profiles
- Longevity Pay
All staff (SHRA) positions at Appalachian State University are subject to or exempt from Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The determination of FLSA status will be made by the Office of Human Resources.
EPS Non-Faculty
Positions that are not subject to the NC Human Resources Act are referred to as EHRA, which is short for “Exempt from the Human Resources Act.” The two types of EHRA employees are Faculty and Non-Faculty, and the types of EHRA Non-Faculty employees are Exempt Professional Staff (EPS) and Senior Academic & Administrative Officer (SAAO).
Policies for EPS employees are under the authority of the University of North Carolina Board of Governors and are administered by the UNC System Office.
The Classification and Compensation Group consults with and advises University managers and supervisors on organizational structure, evaluation of work assigned to positions that are Exempt from the State Human Resources Act of North Carolina (EPS), and related compensation issues.
Faculty
Please contact Academic Affairs for information.
Compensation
Total compensation received by an employee for their work encompasses various forms of monetary compensation and is administered by University HR’s classification and compensation unit. Whether it is through base salary, supplemental pay, additional compensation or bonuses, we ensure pay is compliant to established policies and regulations and remains equitable to higher education standards.