Each new employee will be required to serve a six (6) month probationary period before becoming a regular University employee. During that period, the immediate supervisor will be closely observing and coaching the employee on his/her work performance. Before the expiration of the probationary period, the supervisor will conduct a performance evaluation of the employee’s general productivity, job knowledge, dependability, cooperation, initiative, and general character. After signing the evaluation, the supervisor will forward a copy of the evaluation to the Division of Human Resources.
If the employee's performance has not been satisfactory, at any time, the supervisor may invoke a performance improvement plan or recommend termination of the employee's services with a one-week notice. Department Heads and Deans should ensure that the reason(s) for the termination (outlining how the employee failed to meet work standards) is documented. A probationary employee may be terminated immediately and without advance notice for Just Cause (Refer to Section XIII Separation and Termination of Employment). The supervisor’s duty to document reasons for termination does not alter the fact that probationary at-will employees can be terminated without cause.
Upon the completion of the probationary period, the employee will become a regular employee of the University's staff entitled to all privileges enjoyed by University staff employees. An additional probationary period is not required of a non-probationary employee upon promotion or transfer to a new position.