Purpose of these positions
Temporary Openings mainly support the University’s increasing business demands, leaves of absence, special projects, seasonal peaks or other areas.
Temporary Staff Positions
Whether you are a first-time or transitional job seeker, college graduate, graduate student, experienced professional or retiree, we have a variety of temporary positions that may be just what you are looking for! Our temporary openings range across many business units as well as job functions at Northwestern.
Become a Northwestern temporary employee
Common temporary positions
- Office and Administrative Assistants
- Financial and Accounting Assistants and Coordinators
- Research Assistants
- Associate Developers/ IT Support
Benefits
- Gain University exposure and experience
- See what type of career path interests you
- Networking opportunities
- Voluntary Saving Plan
- Valuable work experience
- Software training
- Paid Leave and Sick Time for Non-Benefits Eligible Staff & Student Employees
Desired qualities in candidates
- Professionalism
- Customer focus
Strong verbal/written communication skills - Attention to detail
- Eagerness
- Innovation and creativity
- Organizational and planning skills
Length of assignments
Lengths of assignments can vary depending on department needs. A position could range from a few days to several months or longer. It is not uncommon for assignments to be extended by departments.
While we continuously seek to retain outstanding professionals that will help make Northwestern a better place, we cannot guarantee a full-time position given the ever changing landscape of the University. Whenever possible, the successful completion of a temporary assignment could indeed lead to a full time role, or to a referral to another department.
Application process
All applicants must complete the online application process and apply to specific temporary opportunities on our website. To apply for a temporary job, log in to the Careers Website and filter Job Openings on the left hand column by “Temporary.”
The process includes a preliminary prescreen, Microsoft Office software assessment, completion of professional references, and proof of education and certified credentials. Additionally, candidates that are selected must successfully complete a criminal background check. All applicants must meet the qualifications to be considered eligible and part of the temporary pool for employment.
What's next?
After your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by our Talent Acquisition team. If your skillset matches the needs of the position, a Talent Acquisition team member will reach out to arrange an initial screening interview. From there another interview may take place with the department.
Please know the application process takes time. We are unable to contact each applicant on the status of their application due to the high volume of resumes received. If you come across more than one temporary opening of interest, we welcome multiple applications!
Have a question you didn’t see listed? Please review our Frequently Asked Questions for Applicants for Temporary Employment for further assistance.