Which document outlines an employee’s expected performance and duties?

The document that outlines an employee's expected performance and duties is the job description. A job description serves as a formal document that details the essential functions, responsibilities, and expectations associated with a specific position within an organization. It provides clarity to both the employee and the employer, ensuring that the employee understands what is required in their role.

This document typically includes key aspects such as the primary tasks the employee will perform, any necessary qualifications or skills, reporting relationships, working conditions, and performance expectations. By clearly defining these elements, a job description helps to establish accountability and serves as a reference point for performance evaluations, recruitment, and employee development.

While an employee manual offers broader company policies and workplace guidelines, it does not usually detail the specific responsibilities of individual jobs. A performance appraisal assesses how well an employee has met their job description's expectations over a specific period but does not outline those expectations in the first place. Lastly, a work contract may stipulate terms of employment but generally lacks the detailed breakdown of job-related duties and performance standards that a job description provides.