Frequently asked questions

Prospective employees

• Where can I find the application?

  The UW application is located on the Applying for awards webpage.   

• What is the length of the program?
  The fall/winter program runs from September to April. The summer program runs from May to August.
• Who is eligible to participate in University Works?

  Domestic and International undergraduate students who meet the following criteria are eligible to apply:

  • Enrolled in full-time studies.
  • Demonstrate a financial need.
  • Have achieved a GPA of 2.0 in their last full-time semester.

  Please note: part-time students and graduate students are not eligible for the University Works program.
• What positions are available?
  A variety of positions from different departments and faculties at Ontario Tech are available to students.
• How many hours am I allowed to work?
  During the fall/winter program, you're allowed to work a maximum of 12 hours per week. The summer program—a full time position—is a maximum of 35 hours per week.
• Can I take courses while working?
  You must be enrolled in full-time studies while participating in the fall/winter program and you cannot be enrolled in more than two courses during the summer program.
• What is the wage?
  Once employed under the University Works program, you'll be paid a minimum wage of $17.25 an hour. Wage can vary based on the position or department.
• Can I hold a University Works position and be a Teaching Assistant (TA) or Research Assistant (RA) at the same time?
  No, you are not permitted to work as a TA or RA if you're participating in the University Works program.
• Who can I contact if I have questions?
  If you have any questions regarding the UW program, please email universityworks@ontariotechu.ca.

Current employees

• What can I expect in my first week of employment?
  During your first week of employment, you will meet your supervisors, team and other members of your office. During this week you will attend a mandatory orientation with other incoming University Works employees. This is where you will learn more about the program in terms of expectations, payroll and training. You will use this week to complete a set of mandatory training modules that will help prepare you for your new job.
• Who can I expect to receive my contract from?
  You will receive your contract by email from your supervisor on your first day of work.
• I still haven't received my contract, who should I contact?
  If you have not received your contract by the first day, you should contact your supervisor directly.
• Who do I send my completed contract to?
  Please send your completed contract back to your employer. It is your employer's duty to email completed contracts to universityworks@ontariotechu.ca.
• What is the deadline to submit my contract to my employer?
  We ask that you submit your contract to your employer as soon as possible, preferably by the first day of employment.
• Do I have to complete any training?
  Yes, mandatory training instructions will be provided to all employees through your ontariotechu.net email address. New employees must complete all mandatory training within the first two weeks of employment. For a complete list of requirements, visit the Mandatory Training page.
• Do I have to complete the training modules prior to my first day at work?
  Training modules will be available for completion prior to your first day of work. However, these modules can be completed during your scheduled working hours. Please contact your supervisor to find out when you should complete your modules.
• How do I know what training modules I have completed?
  You can view the certifications you have completed through the Training Record webpage. Please use your network ID and password to log in. All new and returning student employees are encouraged to log in to review your Training Record.
• What training must I complete in the first two weeks?

  Ontario Tech University faculty, staff and volunteers are required to complete legislated mandatory and site-specific training. At Ontario Tech, we are committed to ensuring a healthy, safe and accessible workplace for all employees. The following training resources are available to supplement new employee orientation in the virtual and in-person work environment. It is the responsibility of each department and supervisor to ensure that employees, students and volunteers receive training that is appropriate to their roles and responsibilities.

  For a complete list of all the mandatory training, please visit the Mandatory Training page.
• Do I have to attend orientation?
  Students who are new to the University Works program are required to attend the Summer Welcome Orientation. If you cannot attend please email universityworks@ontariotechu.ca. The Summer Welcome Orientation is generally scheduled for the first day of the program.
• How often will I get paid?

  Employees are paid on a bi-weekly basis occurring every other Friday. 

  Learn more about submitting hours and when you'll get paid.

• Do I get sick days or vacation days?
  You are entitled to request vacation and take sick time. These days will be unpaid. If you need to take days off, please communicate directly with your supervisor.
• Am I entitled to any breaks while working?

  Yes.

  Employees who work less than a five hour shift will receive a 15 minute paid break.
  
  Employees who work more than a five hour shift will receive a 15 minute paid break and an unpaid lunch break. Please meet with your supervisor to discuss working hours. 

• Once I have been hired, do I automatically get to continue my employment into future fall/winter or summer terms?
  You are not guaranteed employment for future terms. Employers and students must re-apply for the next employment term.
• If I am continuing in the program, how often do I have to apply?
  You must re-apply to the program at the start of each fall/winter term and at the start of the summer term.