Expected to do bosses job when she's not there.

[yousmellMarfelus]

A few months ago at work, I applied for a more senior role, which involves more responsibilities and more pay.
I was unsuccessful at the time and the post went to someone else.
I'm fine about it, because it was good interview practice and I don't begrudge it going to the this particular person. She is right for the job.

My gripe is this.

When she is off sick or at a meeting or on a training course, I am often asked to fill in for her.
It tens to only happensabout once every two weeks, but still.....
Am I right to be a bit annoyed that they don't think I'm good enough to do the job, but are quite happy for me to step in when it suits them.
Why should I do her job when I don't get any of the perks.

Does this happen in many working environments?

Make sure when you are you get enough information to cover and do the job properly.

I personally would refuse to take that sort of responsability without some sort of formal recognition (not necessarily money). I'll can and will do parts of my boss's job willingly for no extra money but the buck most definitely does not stop with me unless I am trained, paid and recognised accordingly. But I recognise that I am fortunate to be in secure employment and not everyone can be as hard nosed as I am.

One question that that we haven't asked the OP is whether others on her grade are expected to step up in the same way. Could you refuse, and if so, would someone else be capable of stepping up? For me this is a good way of distinguishing between "handy experience ahead of making the next step up the career ladder" and possible exploitation.