Why OptiHR

How we help

South Africa's most trusted method

Paterson job grading

Signed job descriptions for every role, then Paterson grading from the bottom up — recognised by unions, government and the CCMA.

current market data, your industry

South African salary benchmarking

We benchmark your salaries against current South African data for your industry and region, then show what to adjust and when.

defensible, fair, and documented

Equal pay compliance & CCMA protection

The Employment Equity Amendment Act requires equal pay for work of equal value. Grading proves your pay follows objective job content, not favouritism.

Deliverables

What you get

Clear job descriptions for every role

A documented grading structure with a rationale per grade

Market salary ranges for each grade

Better retention — fair pay keeps staff

Ideal For

Who we work with

Businesses setting salaries on gut feel or negotiation

Staff complaining about unfair pay or favouritism

Growing businesses in Gauteng unsure what to pay new roles

Employers preparing for Employment Equity audits

Private schools grading educators and support staff

Businesses facing mergers, acquisitions or investor due diligence

Our Advantage

Why choose OptiHR

Legal expertise built in — our owner is an admitted attorney versed in equal pay law.

We do the work — job descriptions, grading committees, salary benchmarking.

We identify inflated job descriptions and keep grading objective.

Market data you can trust — current South African salary data plus specialist surveys.

Legal Framework

Legislation that applies

equal pay for work of equal value.

Employment Equity Act — Equal Pay

The EEA Amendment Act requires employers to eliminate unjustifiable pay differentials for work of equal value. Without formal grading you cannot defend those decisions.

pay disputes and unfair labour practices.

Labour Relations Act

Equal pay and remuneration disputes go to the CCMA as unfair labour practices. Documented job evaluation is your primary defence.

Common questions about job evaluation

FAQ

Questions about pay structures and job grading in South Africa.

Contact us

What is the Paterson Job Grading System?

Do we need job evaluation even if we're a small business?

What happens if employees exaggerate their job content to get a higher grade?

How does job evaluation protect us from CCMA equal pay claims?

What our clients say

Begin Your Journey Today

Book a free consultation and find out exactly where your business stands — no commitment, no pressure.

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