One of the key pieces of information for the search process is the minimum salary being offered, and setting that amount in alignment with our UU values is a process. The UUA provides guidance to assist and empower congregational leaders (i.e. the board, personnel committee, finance committee) in making values-based compensation decisions.
We offer this quick guide for search committees, but encourage the congregation to circle back to the full salary program guidance that includes the values-based Salary Policies and Practices.
Find Your Geo Index
How Are Recommended Salary Ranges Adjusted for Location?Using the Geo Index Listing
Our Geo Index Listing adjusts recommended salaries to account for prevailing wage rates in a congregation’s location.
Determine Your Congregation’s Size
Size, for salary purposes, is mainly a function of congregational membership. Budget and staffing levels are additional considerations.
Determine the Minister’s Job Level
Most commonly:
- Solo and lead ministers are Executive I
- Associate/Assistant ministers with broad
responsibilities are Executive II - Minister for a specific program area might be Director Level, e.g., Minister for Social Justice or Director of Congregational Life
Find the Recommended Salary Ranges for Your Geo Index
Recommended Salary Ranges for Congregational Stafffor Congregational Staff
UUA Recommended Salary Ranges by Geo Index (location) are provided for four congregational sizes at six job levels.
Considerations Within the Range
How does the minister’s minimum salary range compare with other staff?
Salary Ranges: Deciding Where to Place Each EmployeeUsing the Ruler Method
Our Ruler Method provides a consistent approach to placing employee salaries with in our recommended ranges. Use it mathematically or simply conceptually.