UNCOVERING BIAS IN JOB DESCRIPTIONS IN A PUBLIC SECTOR ORGANIZATION
Date
2025-07-03
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
ORCID
0009-0008-0338-515X
Type
Thesis
Degree Level
Masters
Abstract
This thesis examines the presence and impact of biased language in job descriptions within a public sector organization—the City of Saskatoon. Rooted in a human rights framework and guided by Critical Race Theory, discourse theory, and intersectionality, the research explores how recruitment language can serve as a mechanism of exclusion. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study analyzed 1,563 job descriptions through both content analysis and reflexive thematic analysis. Findings reveal systemic patterns of bias across dimensions such as age, race and ethnicity, gender, ability, education, and language. These biases often manifest through rigid criteria, culturally specific language, and limited recognition of diverse abilities and pathways. The study also introduces the miyo-wîcêhtowin Hiring Framework, an Indigenous-centered tool for fostering equity in hiring practices. The research contributes to the discourse on equitable employment by offering a replicable framework for assessing and addressing exclusionary language in recruitment, with implications for public sector policy and practice.
Description
Keywords
Biased Language, Job Descriptions, Public Sector Recruitment, Employment Equity, Critical Race theory, Intersectionality, Inclusive Hiring, HUman Rights Framework, Indigenous Research, Indigenous Methodologies, Diversity and Inclusion, miyo-wîcêhtowin
Citation
Degree
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Department
Edwards School of Business
Program
Marketing