Jobs, Work-Related Values, and Attitudes of Staff and Technicians at a National Laboratory

摘要

How do we explain differences in values and attitudes toward work between employees in structurally different job categories. To answer this question, research was conducted at a national laboratory where stereotypes predicted that Staff scientists and Technicians possess different job values and attitudes toward work. Data were obtained on the employees' perceptions of their jobs (what they feel they give, receive, and want from their jobs), the structure of their jobs (rules and rewards associated with their positions), and the occupational stereotypes (what these are and where they are most prevalent). The methods used to gather the data were questionnaires, intensive interviews, behavioral observations, and research of records on personnel. Statistical results indicate that Staff and Technicians differ, as described in the stereotypes, because they receive different rewards. The employees tend to value the rewards that correlate with high job satisfaction as well as those which their positions provide. Those who receive the rewards which correlate with high job satisfaction concentrate more time, energy, and personal interest on their work roles than those who do not receive these rewards. The employees' focus on the rewards they receive and on their most satisfying roles is interpreted as a form of adaptation. (ERA citation 10:047965)