Vocational qualification systems are designed to standardize the levels of knowledge, skill, and competence that an employee must possess while performing their job. In Türkiye, these levels are defined from 1 to 8 within the scope of the Turkish Qualifications Framework (TYÇ) and are aligned with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).
Leveling is not merely a classification tool; it also clarifies the degree of responsibility and autonomy employees are expected to have, the knowledge and skills required for their roles, and the level of education that supports these tasks.
According to the TQF, vocational qualification levels are defined as follows:
Level 1
Employees with basic general knowledge and the ability to perform simple tasks. They must possess a literacy certificate.
Level 2
Employees who can perform tasks under supervision with basic job knowledge and some skills. A primary school diploma is required.
Level 3
Employees who can carry out routine tasks under supervision and know basic practices. They must hold a journeyman certificate or a Level 3 Vocational Qualification Certificate.
Level 4
Employees who can understand all aspects of the job, work independently, and monitor quality. They must hold a mastership certificate, a high school diploma, or a Level 4 Vocational Qualification Certificate.
Level 5
Senior technicians or team leaders who can plan complex tasks, manage processes, and improve operations. They must have an associate degree or a Level 5 Vocational Qualification Certificate.
Level 6
Employees with advanced expertise and strategic decision-making capability. A bachelor’s degree or a Level 6 Vocational Qualification Certificate is required.
Level 7
Employees with advanced knowledge and research capability in their field. A master’s degree is required.
Level 8
Employees with the highest level of expertise and leadership capacity. A doctoral degree is expected.
These levels vary according to knowledge, skill, competence, and education criteria, and each level clearly defines an employee’s capacity and responsibility in performing their duties. In particular, levels 3 to 5 are critical for most technical and operational positions defined in MYK occupational standards, as these levels determine an employee’s ability to work independently, take responsibility, and improve processes. So, how can we determine which qualification level an employee should obtain? In legislation, each level is defined by level descriptors consisting of knowledge, skills, and competence, which express the common learning outcomes for that level. In this context, the following criteria should be considered when determining an employee’s level:
Knowledge Level
Level 3: Applies basic knowledge; performs routine tasks under supervision.
Level 4: Understands all aspects of the job and can work independently.
Level 5: Plans complex tasks, manages processes, and can improve them.
Skill Level
Level 3: Works according to instructions.
Level 4: Works independently and monitors quality.
Level 5: Plans processes, guides the team, and produces solutions.
Competence Level
Level 3: Performs own tasks; does not supervise others.
Level 4: Manages some tasks and processes; provides guidance when necessary.
Level 5: Plans all processes, manages the team, and drives improvement.
Properly positioning employees at the correct level contributes not only to ensuring legal compliance but also to reducing occupational safety risks and empowering employees to perform more effectively in roles aligned with their competencies.