Is job evaluation compatible with care work?

Abstract

Using data from research on the undervaluing of predominantly female occupations, we found that the usual procedures for setting wages, notably job evaluation methods, may undervalue care work, which is predominantly done by women. Such work is difficult to analyze and evaluate because the current labor market is described by a static language of specialization and skills, whereas care workers should be judged more by their experience, which varies with the context and the situation. It is also difficult to appreciate and evaluate the true value of their work, which is sometimes invisible and often unquantifiable. According to Dejours and Gernet, care work relies on less noticeable abilities. A care worker must be able to anticipate another person's needs—an ability too often noticed only when absent—and be able to foresee, interpret, and understand the person's circumstances. The usual job evaluation methods seem confined to more objective and rational criteria.