New Employee Orientation to Employment

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TOPIC: New Employee Orientation to Employment
EFFECTIVE DATE: 1 November 2000
UPDATED:
30 May 2008
Approved By: B. Reissenweber, VP for Finance
Policy Number: 204

POLICY

Aurora University provides a New Employee Orientation Period (introductory period) of on-the-job experience to new hires. The successful completion of this period should not be considered as creating a contract or guaranteeing employment for any specific duration or as establishing a "just cause" termination standard. As is the case at any time during the employment relationship, employment is at-will; an employee may be discharged for any reason at any time during the introductory period or after, with or without cause or notice.

Aurora University strives to provide new employees with important information about their job responsibilities, the university, university policies and procedures, and employee benefits. The orientation period is intended to acquaint the new employee with the university and its culture. For employees transferring within the university, this policy is intended to smooth the employee’s transition into the new job.

PROCEDURE

  1. Duration: The New Employee Orientation Period normally extends:
    1. Three months for non-exempt employees
    2. Six months for exempt employees
    3. New or Visiting Faculty fall under the guidelines of the Faculty Handbook

    An extension may be granted for one to three months if the supervisor feels additional time is warranted to achieve satisfactory job performance.

    A supervisor may recommend termination of an introductory employee prior to the end of the Orientation Period if repeated documented training and counseling indicates the employee is not suitable for the position. The supervisor is encouraged to consult with Human Resources throughout the Orientation Period and must consult with Human Resources to review documentation prior to taking any action.

  2. Assigned Responsibilities
    1. HUMAN RESOURCES RESPONSIBILITY

      Human Resources will meet with the employee to explain general Aurora University employment policies, employment benefits and to obtain the necessary paperwork to enroll the employee in selected benefits.

      This initial orientation must occur within the first three days of employment to ensure that payroll documents (federal and state forms and eligibility to work in the United States) are completed in a timely fashion. It is recommended that this meeting be scheduled on the morning of the employee's first day of employment.

    2. SUPERVISOR/DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITY

      The supervisor (or designee) is responsible for explaining the department's function and its organization, for reviewing the employee's job; and for discussing working conditions and expectations. Supervisors are responsible for training and ongoing evaluation of the employee's progress. When appropriate, weaknesses in performance, conduct, or attitude are to be brought to the employee's attention promptly.

      Documentation is vital throughout the employment of every individual. Effective orientation will reduce misunderstandings and turnover, save the supervisor's working time, create a sense of belonging, and contribute to favorable attitudes toward Aurora University which can help make the employee more effective on the job.

    3. NEW EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITY

      The new employee is responsible for providing documentation for the I-9 form, completing other forms on a timely basis for payroll and benefits purposes. The new employee should review Human Resource Policies and the Employee Handbook as soon after hire as possible.

      The new employee should ask questions as necessary and learn about the job, the university, its Mission and Core Values. The Mission and Core Values may be found here.


Questions regarding this policy should be directed to Human Resources.


347 South Gladstone Avenue
Aurora, Illinois 60506-4892
630-892-6431
800-742-5281