Employee Ninety-Day Probation Policy

Responsible Unit: Human Resources | Executive lead: CHRO 
Created: 10/09/2020 | Reviewed/Revised: 10/09/2023 | Effective: 11/14/2023
Compliance: NWCCU 2.F.1 
Approving Body: PAC | Classification: Local: Employees 

Policy 
NEWLY HIRED EMPLOYEES 
During the first 90 calendar days of employment, all employees (other than faculty) are considered to be in a probationary period. Ninety-day probationary periods may be extended, where appropriate, at the discretion of CHRO or designee and the employee’s supervisor. The notification of extension will be in writing. This probationary period does not alter the employment-at-will status of any employee. Employees may resign from PNWU at any time and may be separated by the University at any time, with or without notice, with or without cause. If an employee is in the probationary period and performance or behavior proves to be less than satisfactory, the supervisor shall consult Human Resources prior to the employee’s separation.
 
PROMOTED OR TRANSFERRED EMPLOYEES 
A new probationary period commences on the effective date of any promotion (other than faculty rank promotion), job change, or transfer. If the employee proves unsatisfactory in the new position, they may return to their previous job, if available, or be placed elsewhere within the University with the approval of the affected department supervisor and Human Resources. If there are no suitable job openings, the employee may be separated. 
 
NINETY-DAY EVALUATION PERIOD PERFORMANCE EVALUATION 
A probationary period evaluation will be completed by the supervisor. A supervisor or manager must follow-up with the new employee during their probationary period on or around day 30 and day 90 to discuss the new employee’s orientation, onboarding, and job performance.

TERMINATIONS DURING NINETY-DAY EVALUATION PERIOD 
If the employee is separated from employment, the accrued vacation balance will be paid out on the final paycheck if the 30 days of employment are met.

Definitions:  
Ninety-Day Probation Period: First 90 days of employment beginning on new hire date or promotion/transfer date to new position. 

Procedure:  
N/A 

Related Documents: 

  • Performance Improvement Plan 
  • Counseling Form 
  • 90-Day evaluation 
  • Faculty Evaluation Policy
  • Vacation Policy 

Policy Resources

For assistance with policies and procedures contact:

Lori Fulton
lfulton@pnwu.edu