December 15, 2023

What is a job requisition?

Reem Al-Tamimi

Reem Al-Tamimi

Content Writer

A recruiter holds a paper that has "what is a job requisition" on it.

A job requisition is a key tool for managers, officially signaling the need to fill a role. It kick-starts the hiring process, outlining the necessity and specifics of the position. This critical document not only justifies the need for a new team member but also frames the budgetary considerations involved.

The power of job requisition

Job requisitions are essential in companies with organized HR processes. When a department needs new staff, the manager fills out this requisition. It explains why the new hire is needed and considers the budget. The HR then reviews it, ensuring the request aligns with company goals and resources. Once approved, it guides recruiters in creating job postings. This clear process helps you hire the right people efficiently, seamlessly aligning new hires with the department’s and the company’s needs.

Job requisition clauses

A job requisition is a formal document outlining the details of a potential new hire, crucial for streamlining the recruitment process. It typically includes several key elements:

  • Position Title: Clearly defines the role being filled.
  • Hiring Manager: The name of the manager requesting the new hire.
  • Department/Team/Project: Specifies where the role fits within the organization.
  • Type of Employment: Full-time, part-time, contract, and more.
  • Preferred Start Date: When the new hire is expected to begin.
  • Salary Range and Benefits: Outlines compensation and perks offered.
  • Budget Options: Details financial considerations and constraints.
  • Justification for Hiring: Explains why this new position is necessary.
  • Job Description: A detailed or updated description of the role’s responsibilities and requirements.

What’s the difference between job requisition, job description, and job posting?

Job requisition, job description, and job posting are terms often used interchangeably, yet they represent distinct aspects of the hiring process. Understanding their differences is key to effectively managing recruitment and staffing.

  • The job requisition:  It’s the initial step in the hiring process. It’s an internal document, often formal in tone, which outlines the need for a new hire in a specific position. This requisition is generally created by a department manager and includes details like the type of employment, salary range, and justification for the new position. It serves as an official request to the HR department to start the recruitment process.
  • The job description: A detailed outline of the job itself. It includes the responsibilities, tasks, and qualifications required for the position. This document is internal and is often used as a reference throughout the hiring process to ensure candidates meet the necessary criteria. It’s more detailed and focused on the role rather than the hiring process.
  • The job posting: It’s what potential candidates see. It’s an external advertisement derived from the job description, designed to attract candidates. Unlike the job requisition or description, a job posting is crafted in an engaging tone. It not only highlights the specifics of the job but also promotes the company and the benefits of working there. This is the tool that bridges the gap between an open position and potential candidates.

In essence, these three elements form a sequence in recruitment. The job requisition marks the need for a new employee, the job description provides a blueprint of what the role entails, and the job posting is the public-facing pitch that attracts applicants. Each serves a unique purpose in acquiring the right talent for the organization.


Step into the HR world, where we simplify complex jargon for you. Our Glossary isn’t just a list—it’s an easy-to-understand guide to HR terms.

Browse our Q&A hub for growing insights in HR. Find straightforward answers to questions like:

Turn top talent to employees fast

Hire, assess, onboard and manage top talent for every job. See how Elevatus streamlines everything; from acquire to new hire.

Request a demo

Author

Reem Al-Tamimi

Reem Al-Tamimi

Turn top talent to employees fast

Hire, assess, onboard and manage top talent for every job. See how Elevatus streamlines everything; from acquire to new hire.

Request a demo