Navigating Student Employment Opportunities at Dominican University

Dominican University recognizes its student workers as valuable contributors to the institution's smooth and efficient operation. Student employment offers part-time jobs that allow students to earn money to help pay education expenses. It is important to understand the opportunities available, the eligibility requirements, and the application process. This article provides a comprehensive overview of student employment opportunities at Dominican University, including on-campus employment, options for F-1 students, and key aspects of the hiring process.

Understanding Student Employment at Dominican

Student employment at Dominican University provides part-time jobs for students, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. It's important to remember that student employment is never a credit to your student bill; you will be paid by the hour. Dominican University is committed to paying you directly and at least monthly. Wages for the program must equal at least the current federal minimum wage but might be higher, depending on the type of work you do and the skills required. The amount you earn can't exceed your total student employment award.

The federal work study/Dominican employment awards are not guaranteed funds, the money does not get transferred to your student account, nor will you owe any of the unused funds to the university.

On-Campus Employment for Students

Dominican University offers a variety of career opportunities across its academic colleges and administrative departments. The university welcomes individuals at all stages of their careers, from those just starting out to those seeking professional growth or stepping into leadership roles.

Opportunities for F-1 International Students

Employment opportunities for F-1 students are very limited, and it's crucial to understand the specific regulations and options available. As an F-1 student, you may work up to 20 hours per week on campus while you are enrolled in a full course of study or otherwise maintaining status. However, on-campus employment is never guaranteed for international students. You may apply for on-campus work after October 1. It's important to note that very few student workers, either domestic or international, work 20 hours per week. It is more common to work 10 hours or fewer per week.

You do not need an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for on-campus employment; you will, however, need to complete all necessary paperwork and present your passport, I-94, and I-20. This is done through the Office of People and Culture, located in Lewis Hall, Room 234.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Through CPT, an F-1 student may work off campus through an internship, practicum, or field placement. The work must be directly related to your major and is done during your course of study.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

OPT is an Employment Authorization Document (EAD work permit) which permits F-1 students to work off campus in their major field under very specific conditions.

STEM OPT Extension

Permits certain F-1 students with degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion OPT.

The Application and Hiring Process

The process of securing student employment at Dominican University involves several key steps:

Step 1: Explore Available Positions. Go to Dominican's employment site to apply for student jobs. Job openings are posted as they become available, so check back frequently during your search for new postings.

Step 2: Apply, Interview, and Get Hired. Apply, interview, and get hired for a student employment position. Go to Dominican's employment site and create an application.

Step 3: Complete New Hire Paperwork. Once hired, you will receive a work authorization confirming your employment. You will also complete a new hire packet. All highlighted sections on the paperwork need your information. Part of the new hire process is verification of your eligibility for employment in the US. This verification requires specific documents that you will need to bring to campus.

Step 4: Provide Required Documentation. We will accept unexpired US Passport, Permanent Resident Card, Social Security Card (not laminated), Certified Birth Certificate or other forms as indicated on Column A or C on the DHS I-9 document. You should also bring your student ID, driver’s license or other picture ID as indicated in Column B. We cannot accept any copies, faxes, uncertified reproductions or expired materials.

The Office of People and Culture is available to help students with applying and completing new hire paperwork.

Pay Rates and Payment Schedule

Undergraduate student employees can work up to 15 hours per week during the academic year. Dominican student employees start at $12/hour. All student employees are paid on the sixth of the month or on the last business day before the sixth if it falls on a weekend or holiday. The earnings through student employment are never transferred to a student account.

All student paydays will always be the 6th of the month unless the 6th is a weekend or holiday, then payday will be the last business day before the weekend or holiday. Paychecks will be available in Student Accounts (Lewis 119) the morning of payday.

Key Considerations and Resources

Wages: Wages for the program must equal at least the current federal minimum wage but might be higher, depending on the type of work you do and the skills required.
Work Hours: Undergraduate student employees can work up to 10 hours per week during the academic year.
Payment: Dominican University must pay you directly and at least monthly.
Earnings: The earnings through student employment are never transferred to a student account.
Verification: Part of the new hire process is verification of your eligibility for employment in the US.
Documentation: We will accept unexpired US Passport, Permanent Resident Card, Social Security Card (not laminated), Certified Birth Certificate or other forms as indicated on Column A or C on the DHS I-9 document.
Resources: The Office of People and Culture is available to help students with applying and completing new hire paperwork.

Dominican University's Commitment

Dominican University is dedicated to building a diverse community and encourages applicants from all backgrounds. As part of our commitment to safety, Dominican University publishes the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (pdf opens in a new window) in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Act. This report includes campus crime and fire statistics from the past three years, as well as key policies on safety, sexual misconduct, and substance use. (excluding holidays).

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