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Are there ways that I can find out if a health care career is what I want?

Once you've discussed your interest with a career counselor or teacher, there are several ways to begin exploring a career in health care. First you can sit down and discuss, one on one, what a career with UMHS is really like from someone who knows exactly what it's like—a current member of the UMHS team!

Or, you may want to have a someone (or several people) visit your school or event to share their UMHS experience and details about their specific career. You can even schedule a group tour of our facilities.

Finally, you can find our more about the amazing possibilites in healthcare by visiting Michigan Health Council or Health Opportunities for Today and Tomorrow.


I understand you have volunteers. What is the time commitment? How old do you have to be?

Yes, we do have a variety of volunteer opportunities. For complete details and requirements, visit the Volunteer Section of our website. There is, however, an age requirement of 16 years and a time commitment of 4 hours per week for a calendar year (or school year).


Is there an opportunity for job shadowing? Where do I begin?

Yes, a job shadow experience (usually scheduled for no more than 4 hours) can be arranged by individual staff members through their department. If you would like additional information, please contact our Human Resources coordinator at (734) 647-1894.


What are other jobs that can I apply for while attending high school?

Temporary positions you will most commonly see posted are in the following areas: Clerical/Secretarial, Food and Patient Nutrition, Environmental Services, Material Services) and, if over 18, Adult Patient Sitter. In your community, other options in health care exist like nursing homes (aids and volunteers), community services and senior citizen communities.


Does the University offer summer employment? What is the process for applying?

We sure do! During the summer you can find amazing opportunities through Temporary Employment Services. For more information, click here. Throughout the year, the Pre-Employment Program screens for a variety of temporary positions in Allied Health, Administrative Assistant I, Office/Clerical and all Service/Maintenance.


How old do you have to be before you can apply for a job at the University?

In most cases, and in all cases for direct patient care positions, you have to be 18 years old to apply. However, there are some positions where the minimum age requirement is only 14.


Can you tell me about scholarships?

There are a variety of U of M scholarships worth looking into.

To view a selection, visit the scholarships section on our website. Other references you might find helpful include:


What jobs do you have that don't require a college degree? Are special certifications required?

While most jobs at UMHS do require previous experience, the typical entry level position does not requre a degree. For a quick reference and more information about what jobs at UMHS might work for you, visit our Classification website.


What colleges/universities offer the education required for a particular job?

If you already know which field of health care you're interested in, it's already time to start looking for the college or university that has the courses and curriculum needed to reach your goals. A helpful resourse while you research is the Michigan Health Council.


How many years do you have to attend college or what degree is required for a specific job?

Educational requirements vary depending on the career you choose. You can find experience and educational requirements for a specific career at Health Opportunities for Today and Tomorrow or at the UMHS website.


Who should I contact to learn more about this field (or a particular position)?

If you're a student, you can begin my talking to your guidance counselor or health/science teacher. You can also contact professionals organizations like UMHS for more information or visit sites like Michigan Health Council or Health Opportunities for Today and Tomorrow.


Are there other ways I can "get my foot in the door"?

Get out there! Volunteer at UMHS or mentor youth in your community. The more experience you have working with people the more prepared you'll be to enjoy a rewarding career in health care.


What jobs make the most money? What is the average pay?

While we usually don't quote a specific salary, the jobs that require the most education and experience are the most well compensated. Whatever your postion, you can have faith that UMHS offers competitive pay and generous benefits.


What is the application process? How do I apply? Where should I go to apply?

You can find all the tools you need to apply at umjobs.org. For those seeking temporary positions, just drop by Wolverine Tower on State Street in Ann Arbor for more information. View directions.


What do you look for in a resume? Is a cover letter necessary?

Getting a resume noticed is the first step to success. (This doesn't mean colored or scented paper, by the way.) Make sure it's no more than two pages and MAKE SURE you check for spelling. A cover letter is always good when you are applying for a specific opening and you feel you have certain qualities and experience that would make you well-suited for the position.


Does the University require pre-employment testing? What is the process?

Yes we do. Pre-employment testing (PEP) is held for all entry level positions at UMHS. To begin, complete the on-line registration at umjobs.org and apply for Job Posting #1. Please wait an hour to contact our offices. Selected candidates will receive a phone interview and schedule an in-person interview where applicable tests will be administered.


Are any of the jobs at the University of Michigan union jobs?

Yes, there are number of unions contributing to the success of UMHS. They include:

  • House Officers - HOA, Nursing
  • MNA (Michigan Nurse Association)
  • MVNA (Michigan Visiting Nurses Association)
  • AFSCME (American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees)
  • UMSTU (University of Michigan Skilled Trades Union)
  • POAM (Police Officers Association of Michigan)
  • Local 547 IUOE (International Union of Operating Engineers)
  • LEO (Lectures Employee Organization)
  • GEO (Graduate Employee Organization)
  • IATSE (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees)

Where do you currently have openings? How often should I check for newly posted positions?

For current listing, visit our extensive posting site at umjobs.org


If I fill out the application for a "regular" position, will you forward it on to any department that has openings with my education and experience?

Here's how it works: PEP (Pre-Employment Program) will identify any open positions that you are qualified for in the following area: Administrative Assistant I, a variety of Allied Health positions, all Office/Clerical and all Service/Maintenance positions.

For regular positions, individuals are responsible for registering on our on-line system, umjobs.org and bidding on jobs they are interested in directly from the site.


What are the benefits like at UMHS?

At UMHS, we take care of our employees. In fact, our benefits are among the most competitive and comprehensive in the region. For detailed information, take a look at our benefits. We also have a tuition reimbursement program to help ease the burden of debt and student loans when you join UMHS. Learn more.