New Employee FAQs

Where do I find important policies and procedures?

Employee policies and procedures are available on the UMass Amherst Human Resources website.

What documentation do I need to submit before or on my first day?

Your department's human resources coordinator will schedule you to attend a new employee orientation occurring in the first week of employment. In advance of orientation you will receive an e-mail with links to hiring forms (inclusive of the I-9 form referenced above) and information about benefits & benefits effective dates.

Who should I contact if I have questions during the onboarding process?

Your main point of contact will be UMass Human Resources reachable through AskHR, but your department supervisor can also assist with department-specific questions.

Where do I find important policies and procedures?

Employee policies and procedures are available on the UMass Amherst Human Resources website.

How do I enroll in health insurance and other benefits?

You can enroll in benefits  within the first twenty-one days of benefited employment. The HR Benefits team will provide specific guidance during orientation.

When and how will I receive my first paycheck?

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is on a bi-weekly pay schedule, generating payments every other Friday as reflected on the payroll calendar.

How do I set up direct deposit for my paycheck?

Direct deposit means that your paycheck is automatically deposited into your bank account after you enroll.  Direct deposit is a requirement for employment at UMass Amherst. Direct deposit can be set up via the Employee Self-Service portal on the UMass HR website.

What retirement plan options are available to me?

UMass Amherst offers several retirement plan options, including a state pension plan (MSERS) and 403(b)/457(b) savings plans. You can learn more during your benefits orientation or on the HR Benefits page.

Where can I learn more about UMass’s wellness programs and resources?

UMass offers various wellness resources, focusing on both personal and work-life well-being, as well as information on how to foster an engaging workplace. Information is available on the WorkWell@UMass website.

What is the new employee benefit orientation, and how do I sign up?

Employees hired into benefited positions will be scheduled by their department to attend a payroll and benefits orientation session within their first week of benefited employment. At orientation employees are provided instructions on what is required for the University to initiate payment of salary and secure benefits. If you have not received information on the orientation, please reach out to your department administrator for assistance. 

What mandatory training do I need to complete as a new employee?

Required training topics include Conflict of Interest/Massachusetts Ethics, Respectful Workplace, and Harassment Prevention & Title IX. Departments may have additional training requirements for new employees based on job needs and department expectations. If you are unsure what trainings to attend, contact your supervisor and departmental HR staff.

Are there any specific professional development resources available?

UMass Amherst provides a range of professional development resources through the Partnership for Worker Education, Workplace Learning & Development, and the Office of Faculty Development. Additionally, individual departments may offer their own resources to support your growth.

How do I get my UMass employee ID card?

You can obtain your employee ID card at the UCard Office located on the first floor of the Whitmore Administration Building after receipt of your first paycheck. Instructions will be provided during orientation.

Where can I find information about parking and transportation?

Information about parking permits, bus routes, and carpooling options is available on the UMass Transportation Services website. 

What are options for dining on campus?

UMass Amherst has various dining locations across campus. You can view a list of options and hours on the UMass Dining website. They also offer employee meal plans for use in the Dining Commons and retail dining operations.

What employee resource groups (ERGs) or networking opportunities are available?

UMass has several ERGs focused on professional development, diversity, and inclusion. Information about these groups is available on the ERG website in the Office of Equity and Inclusion.

How do I access the campus library and other academic resources?

Your employee ID card grants you access to library services. Additional resources for research, software, and academic support can be found through the UMass Libraries website.

Where can I find the university's policies on paid time off and holidays?

Policies related to paid time off can be found on the UMass HR website under Paid Time Off and Holidays.

What is the university's policy on flexible work?

Remote and hybrid work policies vary by department based on operational need. You should discuss options with your supervisor and refer to the Flex Work website for more information. 

What should I do if I need to request accommodations under the ADA?

To learn more about how to request a workplace accommodation, please visit The Accessible Workplace Unit. 

How does UMass Amherst support diversity, equity, and inclusion?

UMass Amherst has a long-standing commitment to social progress and social justice. We value diversity and equity and strive for inclusive excellence in our classrooms, research labs, residence halls, workspaces, and beyond. The Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI) provides the campus community with resources and support aimed at building a community and climate rooted in equity and inclusion. 

What campus events and activities are available for employees to get involved in?

Employees can participate in a wide variety of activities such as performances, lectures, athletic events, and other cultural events. The university events calendar lists upcoming opportunities. 

What mental health and well-being resources are available for staff?

Mental health support is available for all employees through the Employee Counseling and Consultation Office (ECCO). Additional support for benefited employees is provided through Optum (use access code: Mass4You), the state’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which offers confidential counseling services. Wellness programs and resources are also available at WorkWell@UMass.

What is the Okanagan Initiative?

Through the Okanagan charter, UMass Amherst is a Health Promoting University. Learn more about how we are committed to creating, cultivating, and sustaining health people, places, and planet. 

How can I get support if I have a question about my job responsibilities?

Your direct supervisor or department head is the best person to consult about job-related questions.