Classified Staff Performance Management
Overview
The University of Colorado (CU) University and Classified Staff Performance Management Program (Program) is a system-wide framework submitted on behalf of the entire University system for approval by the State Personnel Director. It also applies to state-classified employees employed by the University of Colorado Hospital (UCH). CU’s program adheres to the uniform and consistent performance management system guidelines established for all state agencies.
- The Classified Staff Performance Cycle runs from August 1 through July 31.
- CU’s performance management program aligns with statewide guidelines to ensure consistency across all state agencies.
- The program is updated by the Performance Management Director and Employee Relations to remain compliant with state requirements, including Personnel Board Rules and Administrative Procedures.
- The State of Colorado sets merit and performance cycles for classified employees.
- CU Boulder’s program is designed to meet these state rules while supporting employee success.
- The program promotes performance excellence through collaboration between supervisors and employees.
- The program aims to align performance to department goals, identify resource needs, provide feedback, and document performance meaningfully.
Classified Staff Performance Cycle

Rating Scale & Competencies
Classified Staff Rating Levels
- Level 5 - Exceptional: Employees consistently make extraordinary contributions, exhibit exceptional job mastery, and serve as role models.
- Level 4 - Highly Effective: Employees make significant contributions, exceed expectations, and are relied upon for subject matter expertise.
- Level 3 - Effective: Employees reliably meet all expectations, standards, and objectives of their position.
- Level 2 - Needs Improvement: Employee performance or behavior does not consistently meet minimum expectations and requires development.
- Level 1 - Unacceptable: Employee performance or behavior does not meet minimum job expectations, requiring immediate and sustained improvement.
Classified Staff Core Competencies
- Communication.
- Interpersonal Skills.
- Customer Services.
- Accountability.
- Job Knowledge.
- Supervision (an additional required competency for employees who supervise).