Is it illegal to change a job description?
Sarah Garza
Updated on March 28, 2026
In California, an employer may change an employee’s job description to add additional duties if the employee is hired at will. Thus, just as an employee may quit her job at any time (because she too works “at will”), so may an employer change the nature of a job by altering the job description at any time.
What is the job description for editing?
Editors plan, coordinate, and revise material for publication in books, newspapers, or periodicals or on websites. Editors review story ideas and decide what material will appeal most to readers. During the review process, editors offer comments to improve the product and suggest titles and headlines.
Can my employer make me do something not my job description?
So, the short answer is, yes, your employer may assign you tasks not specifically outlined in your job description. Unless you work under a collective bargaining agreement or contract, your employer can legally change your duties. But a job description is rarely an exhaustive list of duties.
Can an employee refuse to perform duties outside his job description?
The employer is entitled to instruct the employee, at any time, to carry out additional duties or responsibilities, which fall reasonably within the ambit of the job description, or in accordance with operational requirements.
Can I be forced to change my job role?
Flexibility clauses allow an employer to change the duties of the job without the employee’s consent. In cases where a flexibility clause is included then an employer can change the job duties of an employee, but this must be within reason.
Is a job description a legal document?
In most cases, a job description – unlike a contract of employment – is not a legally binding document. You can be asked to take on other duties, if these are reasonable.
What are the qualities of good editor?
Skills needed to become an editor
- Attention to detail. The first and most obvious characteristic of a good editor is their attention to detail.
- Knowledge of grammar. Editors have to have an in-depth understanding of grammar.
- Knowledge of style.
- Timeliness.
- Writing skills.
- Edit away.
What skills do video editors need?
You’ll need:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail.
- knowledge of media production and communication.
- the ability to work well with others.
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software.
- to be flexible and open to change.
- the ability to use your initiative.
Are there any job descriptions that are free?
Job descriptions. Our library of job descriptions contains 700+ job titles, categorized by industry, like sales, IT and hospitality. All job description examples are free to download and easy to customize based on your needs.
How are duties listed in a job description?
The job duties should be listed in accordance to their importance and/or frequency which they are performed. They are typically presented in a bulleted or numbered format, consisting of approximately 4-7 separate duties, with each one assigned a “percent of time” (adding to 100%) which reflects the estimated time an employee will spend over a year.
Which is the best way to write a job description?
Include explanatory phrases which tell why, how, where or how often the tasks and duties are performed. Focus on outcome of tasks. Reference areas of decision-making, where one will influence or impact. Identify areas of direct or indirect accountabilities. Describe the level and type of budgetary or financial responsibilities.