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Application Process FAQs

How do I submit an application for an open position?

Please review our Apply for Jobs instruction page to search and apply for current openings using Northwestern's electronic application system.

Can I apply via email, fax, mail, or by directly contacting the hiring department?

Northwestern University only accepts resumes and applications submitted through the electronic application system. For those without Internet access, Human Resources has an available computer that can be used to access the electronic application system.

Northwestern University is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities who apply for employment at Northwestern. Applicants may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting the Office of Equity at 847-497-6165 or via email at equity@northwestern.edu.

Can I contact the hiring department directly?

All applications must be routed through the Office of Human Resources and submitted to the hiring manager through the electronic application system. We are unable to provide hiring committee contact information.

Why do you exclusively accept electronic applications? Why don't you accept paper or emailed resumes?

The advantages of an electronic application system benefit both applicants and hiring departments. The electronic application system provides more search options for applicants, more timely updates to job postings, and the ability to apply for additional jobs without having to submit a new application.

In addition, applications to Job Openings can be processed in a more expedited fashion and the hiring departments can more efficiently screen applicants to fill positions.

What happens to my application after I submit it?

Once you apply, you will receive an email confirming submission of your application. All applications are reviewed and screened against position qualifications. If the hiring team has an interest in your application, either a hiring manager or talent acquisition partner will contact you directly.  Please understand that the review process takes time.

How will I know if my application is being considered?

The hiring team or talent acquisition partner will contact you directly if they need any further information. We are unable to contact each applicant on the status of their application due to the high volume of resumes received. Once a position has been filled, all candidates should receive a notification via email. 

What do the terms "exempt" and "non-exempt" mean?

Exempt positions have monthly salaries and are exempt for the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Non-exempt positions have an hourly rate of pay and are paid the overtime rate for hours worked in excess of 40 per week.

How frequently do you update the job postings?

Job postings are updated throughout the day with the addition of new positions and the removal of filled positions.

A job has been posted for a number of months. Is it still open?

If a position is on the website, it is still accepting applications. Positions are removed from the website once the position has been filled.

Do jobs remain posted after the position has been filled?

No. Postings are removed once a job has been filled.

Can I update an application once it has been submitted?

Once you have submitted an application, you will not be able to change the information. The only information that can be changed is information in the My Contact Information link (for external applicants), such as Address, Email Address, and Phone Number. If you need to send edits please send the request to northwesterncareers@northwestern.edu.

Do I have to re-enter my information every time I apply?

If you have already submitted an application, the information you entered will populate your new application so you do not have to reenter the same information every time you apply. If you upload a new resume, the application will populate based on the information in your new resume.

How long does it take to fill a position?

The hiring process timelines varies by department. However; recruitment processes can take an average of 90 days for exempt positions and 60 days for non-exempt positions.

What if I am looking for a faculty (teaching) position?

Faculty positions are also posted on our Careers website. From the job search page, use the filters on the left-hand side of the page to view only faculty job postings.

What if I am looking for a post-doctoral position?

More information about post-doctoral positions can be found on the Postdoc website.

Do you hire for Northwestern Memorial Hospital?

Northwestern Memorial Hospital is a separate entity. Northwestern University does not hire for the Hospital. You may contact their Human Resources Department at  recruitment@nm.org or visit its website.

What if I am looking for the salary range?

Salary grades are listed in the top right hand corner on all postings. Questions around salary ranges are addressed in the initial interview stage.

How do I withdraw my application?

You can withdraw your application by logging into the portal and going under "My Activities". If you are unable to click withdraw, please contact northwesterncareers@northwestern.edu with the job opening ID number. A Northwestern Talent Acquisition Partner will withdraw your application.

How do I provide a referral?

We strongly believe that good people know good people! While Northwestern University does not have a referral program, you may list a referral in the application section upon submitting your information. 

Still cannot find the answer to your question?

If you are unable to find the answer to your question about the application process, please contact us by calling 847-467-5872 or email us at northwesterncareers@northwestern.edu.