Template
Job description templates
A clear job description helps you write a better advert, interview fairly and give a new starter the right expectations from day one.
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Job description and person specification
Download everything
All 2 versions, in Word and PDF, in one ZIP file (855 KB).
More free templates from elsewhere
Free resources from other websites - we check these links regularly.
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Job description template (Word)
Opens on Acas
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Two example job descriptions (Word)
Opens on Acas
(external site, opens in a new tab)
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Sample job description and person specification (Word)
Opens on Skills for Care
(external site, opens in a new tab)
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Job description and person specification template with guidelines (Word)
Opens on University of Manchester
(external site, opens in a new tab)
How to use it
- Fill in the job title, reporting line, location and hours.
- Write a short statement on why the role exists.
- List the main duties, starting each with a verb.
- Separate the skills the person must have from those that would be nice to have.
- Check it with the line manager before you advertise.
About this template
Use the simple one-page version for small teams, or the detailed version when you also want a person specification with essential and desirable criteria. Both are free to download as Word files you can edit, or as PDFs to print, and each comes with a filled-in example. They are practical layouts, so check official guidance before you advertise or issue a contract.
Questions
What should a job description include?
At minimum, the job title, who the role reports to, the purpose, the main duties and the skills needed. The detailed version also covers working conditions.
What is the difference between a job description and a person specification?
A job description says what the job involves. A person specification says what skills and experience someone needs to do it.
Should I put the salary on it?
Candidates often look for pay first, so including a figure or range is helpful where you can.
Is this employment advice?
No. It is a layout for organising information. For guidance on recruitment and contracts, see GOV.UK and ACAS.
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