Skip to main content

Career Path Framework Initiative

Human Resources is leading Northwestern’s Career Path Framework, a strategic, multi-year and cross-functional initiative. This effort reinforces Northwestern’s commitment to support the development and career growth of one of our greatest resources, our staff. Below is a high-level summary. We will provide more details and communicate broadly with the community once the Career Path Framework is launched.

What is the Career Path Framework?

The Career Path Framework provides a structured view of how jobs are organized and defined across Northwestern. This organizing and defining of roles will be based on job functions, scope of responsibilities, required skills and experience. Job titles and salaries are not included, and therefore, existing job titles and salaries are not impacted. Many of our peers also have this type of career development framework, most often referred to as job architecture. Other descriptors include job structure and job classifications.

What are it's benefits

  • The Framework is a tool that you can use in career growth conversations, whether as individual contributors or as managers.
  • Leaders at Northwestern will benefit from using the Framework for productive conversations with their staff about career development and progression.

What jobs are included in the Career Path Framework?

Northwestern staff jobs (regular full-time and part-time) across all schools and units, including NUQ. This includes individual contributors, managers and non-union staff jobs. Please note faculty, officer, union, and temporary jobs are not included in the framework.

As Northwestern continues to grow, the Framework is designed to adapt to future institutional needs while remaining aligned to the external job market.