A temporary upgrade is available to cover the absence of an employee and must not be for more than 30 consecutive work days. In order for a status employee to be eligible for a temporary upgrade, the employee must meet the qualifications for the higher classification, must pass the examination, if a register exists, and must be assigned the major duties of the higher classification. The upgraded employee will receive the higher rate of pay, and seniority will continue to accrue in the classification where the employee has a status appointment. Supervisors should initiate the temporary upgrade by sending a written request to Human Resources.