Lønnsrammen

Lønnsrammen, meaning salary framework, is a structured approach used in Norway to determine wages within collective agreements. It defines wage groups and progression rules that map pay to job content, required competence, responsibility, and experience. In addition to base pay, the framework may include allowances for shifts, overtime, or hazardous conditions.

The framework typically consists of multiple wage groups (or levels) and a set of steps within each group. An individual job is evaluated and placed in a group and step, which then determines the base salary. Promotions or moves to higher groups or steps often reflect changes in responsibilities, qualifications, or demonstrated competence. The details of groups, steps, and supplements vary by agreement and sector.

Implementation and scope: Lønnsrammen is negotiated between employee organizations and employer associations in sectoral or company agreements. It is widely used in the public sector, municipalities, state agencies, and many private-sector employers that operate under collective agreements. The framework provides a common reference point for pay, supporting consistency within and across organizations covered by the agreement.

Purpose and principles: The frame aims to create transparency and predictability in pay, ensure pay reflects value of work, and facilitate mobility through reclassification or progression within the system. It also supports equal pay for work of equal value across employers within the same sector.

Variations and considerations: Individual agreements determine the exact groups, steps, and supplements. Job evaluation methods, competence allowances, and local supplements can influence the final salary. Some critics view rigid framing as less responsive to market changes, while supporters highlight clarity and equity.

See also: collective bargaining, tariff agreement, wage scale, job evaluation.