ACC has partnered with business management consulting firm Guidehouse to conduct a collegewide, comprehensive Classification and Compensation study. The study focuses on staff and hourly positions, and does not include faculty or adjunct faculty. The goal includes three key objectives:
- Improving role equity to promote a leveling structure that supports equitable growth and retention across roles.
- Alleviating salary compression through a classification structure that accurately reflects differences in roles and tenure.
- Recommending job profiles and classifications that create clear expectations, align responsibilities with titles, and provide transparent pathways for career growth.
Work began early in 2025 and is expected to conclude in the fall. The study is composed of the following phases:
It’s important to know the study is not part of any effort to downsize ACC. Chancellor Lowery-Hart has promised the data gathered will not lead to any layoffs or reductions in salary. Instead, the intent is to fine tune the work the College is already doing.
Questions can be directed to the study team at guidehouse@austincc.edu or hrsupport@austincc.edu.
Other Market Studies
Austin Community College is required to conduct a Market Study every odd-numbered year to benchmark compensation practices in the local job market.
This year, that study has been folded into the broader classification and compensation review underway with Guidehouse. The work includes peer comparisons across Texas, labor market data from the Austin area, and national best practices.
This integrated approach avoids duplication and ensures we continue meeting the intent of the Market Study while aligning with our broader compensation strategy.
Compensation adjustments informed by market findings may be implemented later than usual, but they will be retroactively applied to September 1, 2025. This allows the time needed to ensure accuracy and consistency.