Dual Career Program

Increasingly considerations about seeking and accepting new employment involve decisions about two careers. Being proactive in addressing this issue gives Penn State a competitive advantage when recruiting new faculty and staff. The Dual Career Employment Assistance Program in the Office of Human Resources is available to provide assistance to accompanying partners.

Outstanding hires often have outstanding partners who can contribute their talents to the University or to other employers in the local community. Unemployment or under-employment of these partners can affect morale, productivity and retention. The cost of a national search can range from 70-200% of the employee’s annual compensation, thus it is important to address dual career concerns early in the recruitment process to avoid wasting both time and resources.

Mention the program in your advertising for the position. Let your candidate know that Penn State actively addresses this issue and supports dual career couples. This should reassure your candidates and help them feel more comfortable mentioning their specific needs. Candidates sometimes wrongly assume that this program guarantees employment for their partner. To minimize disappointment and frustration, it is important that candidates understand the employment outlook for their partner before they accept our offer.