Job Listings
Searching for jobs through online portals, Web sites, and newspaper ads is only one part of the process of finding a job. Using these resources should not be the primary way you look for a position. Instead, use them as part of a process that includes networking and building experience. For an overview of how best to approach a job hunt, go to Your Job Search.
eRecruiting
At Career Services, we first direct students to look for job opportunities through eRecruiting, an interactive database that allows you to search for jobs all over the country as well as international opportunities. This is the same database you may have used when looking for internship and co-op opportunities. When you enter through the Career Services portal you will find the site tailored to UMass Amherst students, with calendar and events listings and flags indicating jobs posted by our office.
Download and print our How to Use eRecruiting (PDF) for a handy guide.
Start by linking to the UMass Amherst eRecruiting portal. Once inside you will find it very user-friendly. You can create searches specific to your needs or use the quick search buttons. Each listing will provide detailed information about the position, the employer, and how to apply. In most cases you will be able to e-mail or upload your cover letter and resume.
First-Time Login to eRecruiting
The eRecruiting portal page provides instructions, but the following overview will give you an idea of what to expect.
To log in for the first time use the following default user name and password.
user name = uma + your 8-digit SPIRE ID number
(example: uma12345678)
password = your 8-digit SPIRE ID number
Follow on-screen prompts to complete any missing information in your record. Red dots indicate required information.
Other Job Searching Resources
In addition to eRecruiting there are many other ways where you can search for positions or post your resume.
Career Portals
Career Portal Web sites provide information on career exploration and development, job markets, corporate profiles, job listings, resume, cover letter and job hunting tips, and relocation issues. Please note that portals can be cumbersome when you try to find positions in particular fields — especially those that fall into academic majors that are not commonplace, such as forestry or women's studies. In many cases, employers now place their job listings on sites that cater to their occupational field only.
While there are dozens of general career portals on the Web, we recommend the following:
CareerBuilder Network
College Grad
Cyber-Sierra.com
JobStar
JobWeb
Monster.com
Quintessential Careers
WetFeet
Specialty Job Boards
In many cases, employers will place their job listings on specialty job boards that cater to their occupational field, rather than generalized job listings sites. There are hundreds of specialty job banks online. To find one for your field of interest, try a Google search using your occupation. For example, if you’re interested in jobs in environmental issues, search for “environment jobs.” Or try “finance jobs” if you’re looking for a career in finance. You can also search for the type of sector in which you’d like to work, such as “non-profit jobs” or “adventure jobs.”
Professional Associations
Professional associations are one of the most frequently overlooked sources of job listings. It is becoming increasingly common for employers to post jobs through associations, and in many cases, these are the only places they post. In addition, association Web sites often include discussions groups that feature job postings and important career advice. You can find professional associations in your intended occupation by talking to faculty members or people already in the field. You will also find many through a Google search. Search for “professional association” “professional organization” and your field(s) of interest and you will find a wide range of resources.
Newspapers
For access to newspapers in the U.S. and around the world, go to Newspapers Online.
Company Web Sites
If you’re interested in working for a particular company or organization, go to their Web site. Most employers will post openings on their own Web sites first, since this does not cost them anything. Look for links in the navigation such as “human resources” or “career opportunities.”
