Frequently Asked Questions

Employment Frequently Asked Questions

• General Employment FAQs

  What is the status of my application?

  • The status of each position applied for is located in the status column of the particular job. There are two status updates, "in progress" and "filled". Your application will always show the status "in progress" until the job is "filled".

  Should I complete the entire application?

  • You must complete the entire application and provide all requested information, including all employers (past and present), telephone numbers, dates of employment, reasons for leaving, salary information, and complete addresses. Resumes may be attached to the application but they cannot be submitted in lieu of completing the application. 

  What does closing date mean?

  • When a job posting indicates that there is a closing date, it means that Human Resources has set a final deadline for applications. Applications received after that deadline are not processed. 

  How do I apply for multiple positions?

  • The online application process allows you to retrieve and submit your application for multiple jobs.

  Do I have to apply for a specific position?

  • You must apply for a position that is currently open.

  Is the online application system accessible to individuals with disabilities and to disable veterans?

  • Yes, the College of Charleston has taken measures to ensure that its online job application system is accessible. 

  If I have questions or need special accommodations during the online application process, what should I do?

  • Contact the Office of Human Resources at 843-953-5512 or jobs@cofc.edu. 

  If I am hearing impaired, do you have a method of contact?

  • Yes, the TTY phone number is 843-953-4874.

  If I am disabled and cannot file an online application, may I still apply?

  • Disabled persons may also apply by mail or in person at the Office of Human Resources. For further information on how to apply in person or by mail, and how to receive personal assistance when completing an application in person, disabled persons, including disabled veterans, you may contact Human Resources via phone (843-953-5512), email (hr@cofc.edu), or postal address (66 George St. Charleston, SC 29424). 

  What form should current employees submit to apply for positions?

  • Current employees should submit an online application. The application may be used for multiple positions. We no longer have a separate application for College of Charleston  employees. 

  How do I apply for a temporary position?

  • Currently open temporary positions may be applied for by submitting an online application. 

  May I submit a resume?

  • Our online application process allows you to attach your resume when applying for a job. 

  Once my application is submitted, how long will it be before the screening process is completed?

  • Each hiring department has its own distinct timeline for filling a particular recruitment and conducts its screening accordingly. Some searches last several weeks while others may take several months.
  • If you are selected for an interview, the Hiring Department will contact you to arrange an interview. If you do not hear from the Hiring Department, you may assume that other candidates were selected for an interview. You will receive an email notifying you once the position has been filled. 

  May I submit my application by fax?

  • No. All applications must be submitted online.

  What if I do not have access to a computer?

  • Most local libraries have computer access for people who need to complete the online application. The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce will also have computer access for people who need it. 

  Can I mail/email/fax an application or resume to Human Resources or the Hiring Department?

  • Only applications and/or resumes submitted through the online applicant tracking system at jobs.cofc.edu will be considered for employment. Unsolicited applications/resumes for unspecified positions are not accepted. 

  Can I edit my application after I apply?

  • No, once you submit your application materials your documents are locked and cannot be edited. The screening process may begin immediately once you submit materials; therefore, you cannot go in and edit information after applying. This is to ensure that everyone in the screening process is evaluating the same information that you have submitted. 

  How do I change the email address (or other contact information) associated with my online application?

  • You may contact Human Resources at 843-953-5512 for assistance between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (EST). You may also email Human Resources anytime at jobs@cofc.edu. 

  How often should I check the College's employment site to ensure that I do not miss out on an opportunity to apply for a job while it is open?

  • Our website is updated as jobs become available. 

  I am in the process of completing my application online and have a problem. Who should I contact for assistance?

  • You may contact Human Resources at 843-953-5512 for assistance between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (EST). You may also email Human Resources anytime at jobs@cofc.edu. 

  Will I hear from Human Resources or the Hiring Department after I apply?

  • The College receives a large volume of applications each year so we cannot communicate with every applicant. Only those selected for an interview will hear from the Hiring Department. You can view your status online by logging in to your account "in progress" means that the search is still underway and no offer has been accepted. The "job filled" mean that an applicant has been chosen and hired. 

  May I submit a paper application?

  • Paper applications are not accepted. All applications must be completed online.

  What happens when an application is submitted for a job that is closed (i.e., applications are not currently being accepted)?

  • It is not possible to apply for a job online after the announcement closes. 

  If I am a College of Charleston student, how do I apply for student jobs?

  • Student employment is through the Career Center at charleston.edu/career-center/ or 843-953-5692.

  Where can I find a list of available job openings?

  • You can view current job openings for Staff, Temporary, and Faculty employment online at jobs.cofc.edu. 

  Where is Human Resources located?

  • Mailing Address:
    • Office of Human Resources: College of Charleston
    • 66 George St Charleston, SC 29424
  • Physical Address:
    • Office of Human Resources
    • Lightsey Center, Suite B36
    • 160 Calhoun Street Charleston, SC 29401
  • Phone Number
    • 843-953-5512

  How do I apply for an academic position?

  • Although some academic positions are posted on the Human Resources website, all academic positions are posted on the Academic Affairs web page. Click the link "Academic Positions" located on the right side of the Academic Affairs web page. They can be found on each individual department's web page. 

  Should I submit recommendation letters and how do I do it?

  • Recommendation letters are only required if stated in the job announcement and directions for submission will be given as needed. 
• Dual/Temporary/Adjunct Employment FAQs

  As a temporary employee (regular temporary or adjunct faculty) when will I get my first paycheck?

  • There are several factors in regards to determining payment for adjunct faculty:
    • Does the appointment constitute dual employment?
    • Has all paperwork been completed and has a contact been signed in time for upcoming payroll?
    • Does this date fall before the drop/add dates of classes for the appropriate semester?
  • If any of the above are a factor prior to the first established payment for the adjunct appointment, there could be a delay in the payment process.
  • If non of these are a factor of the adjunct appointment, then payment will begin as expected after the drop/add date, per the payroll schedule for the Office of Human Resources. 
  • Temporary employees are paid based on their hours worked and recorded their time sheets submitted to payroll. Factors 1 and 2 from the adjunct's payment also play a part in how a temporary employee is paid.
  • Once all paperwork has been completed and the employee receives their time sheets, these time sheets need to be submitted to payroll in order for the employee to be paid. This also applies to employees who are dually employed, with the exception that the approved dual employment request must be received before this process begins. 
  • If you are an adjunct, your payment will begin on the following payday after your approved dual employment request has been received from your home agency to the secondary agency. 

  Can I sign up for direct deposit of my paychecks?

  • All employees of the College of Charleston are eligible to participate in direct deposit.

  Since I just started as a temporary employee (non-faculty), is my first paycheck held back and will I receive it after I quit or my employment ends?

  • All payments due to the employee are paid at the earliest convenience on the payroll cycle as an adjustment in their regular payroll once they start receiving a paycheck.  

  My supervisor asked me to work on the weekend, is this considered overtime for me?

  • Overtime is defined as all hours worked in excess of 40-hours within a seven consecutive day work period, which beings at 12:01 a.m. Sunday and ends at 12:00 a.m. (midnight) on Saturday.  The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) provides that employees in non-exempt positions be paid overtime at a premium rate of 1.5 times their hourly rate or granted compensatory time (permanent employees) at a rate of 1.5 hours for each hour of overtime worked. 

  My supervisor wants to give me a raise, how do I get a raise as a temporary employee (non-faculty)?

  • A new temporary appointment should be submitted with the effective date that the new salary should take effect. 

  My temporary appointment expired; does this mean my job has ended?

  • Your employment is based upon the needs of the hiring department and if services are no longer needed employment will end. However, if the department is continuing your employment a new appointment should be submitted as soon as possible, so that there is no break in service. 

  If I wanted to apply for another job on campus, can I do so and do I need to complete another application?

  • Any employee can apply for other positions available on campus. A new online application is required when applying for other positions on campus. 

  I work at another state agency but I have no benefits, is this considered dual employment?

  • No, if you are working at another agency in a temporary position, whether it's as a temporary staff or adjunct, you are not considered to be dually employed. Only persons holding a classified (FTE) position at any S.C. state agency (except for public schools) are considered to be dual employment. Please contact the Office of Human Resources (843-953-5512 or hr@cofc.edu) for further information if needed. 

  I worked at the College of Charleston before; do I have to complete paperwork all over again?

  • If there was no break in your service as an employee (temporary or adjunct) to the College, new paperwork will not have to be completed.
  • If there was a break in service, you will have to complete new paperwork in order to update your files and a background check will be required.
  • If you have made any changes in your life such as a move or marriage, etc. you should notify the HR department so that these changes can be made to your records, even if you did not have a break in service.

  Can I participate in the retirement system as a temporary employee?

  • Check benefits policies within the Office of Human Resources regarding participation.

  I am enrolled with the SCRS (SC Retirement System) at another agency, but I am only temporary do I have to participate as an employee of the College of Charleston also?

  • Yes, as a member of the SCRS you are required to participate in the retirement system at the secondary agency also. 
• Separation/Resignation FAQs

  How should I notify my supervisor that I am resigning?

  • Provide a written letter of resignation to your supervisor and send a copy to the Office of Human Resources (humanresources@cofc.edu). 

  What should the letter say?

  • Include your reason for leaving and the date of your last day of work. It is professional courtesy to give at least two (2) weeks notice of your last day of work. If you are moving, please provide a forwarding address so that your W-2 is sent to the correct address in January. 

  What should I do next?

  • Make an appointment with the Office of Human Resources to have a Benefits Exit interview.

  What happens at the Exit Interview?

  • You will be advised of your rights regarding retirement plan funds' distribution and health insurance conversion. We will also ask you to complete an Exit Interview Survey. The survey is for statistical and research purposes only. The survey is confidential and is not included in your permanent personnel file. Nothing you write will be discussed with your department unless you give us permission to do so. 

  What should I do on my last day?

  • On your last day of employment you should return keys, parking pass/card, and any other College of Charleston property. Be sure your last time sheet is completed and submitted electronically. This needed for leave payoff information.