Relocating for a new faculty or staff position at the University of Notre Dame is an exciting step, but it often presents a unique challenge for couples: the dual career search. Recognizing this, the University of Notre Dame offers a comprehensive Dual Career Assistance Program designed to provide customized support to relocating spouses and partners seeking professional opportunities in the Notre Dame area. This program aims to ease the transition and enhance the recruitment and retention of top talent by assisting partners in their job search journeys.
For a deeper understanding of the program’s offerings, placement successes, and participant experiences, you can refer to the Dual Career Assistance Program Brochure. Additionally, for those considering a move to the area, explore the Preferred Realtor Program to assist with your housing needs.
Who Qualifies for Dual Career Support?
Eligibility for the Dual Career Assistance Program is primarily for spouses or partners of newly hired full-time faculty or staff members. To be eligible, the partner must be facing unemployment due to the relocation to Notre Dame. Priority consideration is given to those whose spouse or partner has been employed at the University for less than a year, ensuring the program is focused on supporting new recruits and their families. It is also critical to note that the program’s effectiveness is significantly dependent on the participant having the legal authorization to work in the United States.
Alt text: A couple thoughtfully discusses career options, representing the dual career challenges faced during relocation.
Accessing the Dual Career Assistance Program: A Step-by-Step Guide
Engaging with the Dual Career Assistance Program is a structured process designed to provide personalized and effective support. Here’s how eligible participants can get started:
Initiate with the Initial Consultation Form
The first step to unlock dual career support is to complete the initial consultation form. This action should be taken once a job offer from the University of Notre Dame has been accepted. This form serves to confirm program eligibility and gather essential information about the job seeker’s professional background and career preferences. The initial consultation form is readily accessible online. Upon submission and review of your form, the Dual Career Assistance Office will reach out to confirm your eligibility and provide detailed guidance on how to proceed with the program.
Attend Your Initial Consultation
Following the form submission, an initial consultation is scheduled. This meeting is a crucial step in tailoring the program’s services to your specific needs. The consultation aims to comprehensively understand your employment interests, skill sets, and job search requirements. While face-to-face meetings are highly encouraged for a more personal interaction, recognizing geographical constraints or scheduling needs, consultations can also be effectively conducted via phone, video conference, or email.
Alt text: A professional consultation meeting in progress, highlighting the personalized support offered by the Dual Career Assistance Program.
Receive Tailored Job Search Assistance
The cornerstone of the program is the customized assistance provided to each participant. Recognizing that every job seeker’s situation is unique, the services are flexible and adapted to individual career goals and challenges. The assistance focuses on identifying suitable employment opportunities and building valuable professional networks. Key services include:
- Pre-offer Consultations: Support and guidance are available even during the faculty or staff member’s interview process, addressing dual career concerns proactively.
- Direct Job Search Assistance: Hands-on support in navigating the job market.
- Strategic Networking: Leveraging the University’s network to connect participants with relevant contacts and opportunities, alongside networking skills development.
- Exclusive Access to University Job Postings: Priority access to job openings within the University of Notre Dame.
- Resume and CV Enhancement: Professional critique and improvement of resumes/curriculum vitae and cover letters to maximize impact.
- Interview Skills and Salary Negotiation Coaching: Targeted training to enhance interviewing techniques and strategies for successful salary negotiations.
- Local Employment Market Insights: Provision of valuable information about the local job market demographics and trends.
- Comprehensive Job Search Resources: Access to other pertinent resources and information that can significantly aid in a successful job search.
Alt text: Visual representation of job search assistance and professional networking, core components of the Dual Career Assistance Program.
Important Considerations for Job Seekers
It is vital to understand that while the Dual Career Assistance Program offers extensive support and resources, it is not a guarantee of employment. The program is designed to empower and assist, but ultimately, job search success is heavily reliant on the individual’s active participation, persistence, and follow-up efforts. The University of Notre Dame is committed to providing the tools and network, but individual initiative remains crucial.
Explore Career Opportunities at Notre Dame
Ready to explore job opportunities within the University of Notre Dame? Use the links below to find open positions:
