Welcome to NDSU! Whether you’re new here or part of the Bison family for years, there are a few things every employee should know. Let’s make boring policies, paychecks, and professional growth fun and easy to understand.
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Policies Made Simple
Policies might sound dull, but they’re here to help you. They keep the workplace fair, safe, and consistent for everyone.
Know Where to Look
NDSU has a Policy Manual online. It’s your go-to guide for everything from vacation time to workplace safety.
Here’s what you should check out:
- Employee Conduct – Know what’s expected at work.
- Leave Policies – Find out how sick leave, vacation, and family leave work.
- Equal Opportunity – Policies that ensure fairness to all.
If you ever feel unsure, ask Human Resources. They’re friendly and ready to help.
The Important Compliance Stuff
Some policies aren’t just internal. They help NDSU follow federal and state laws.
Examples include:
- Title IX – Protects all employees and students from discrimination based on sex or gender.
- FERPA – Rules about student privacy. Yes, even for staff who work with records!
- Mandatory Reporting – If you see or hear about harm, you may need to report it.
These might sound serious (and they are), but training is provided to help everyone do the right thing.
Understanding Your Paycheck
Payday is exciting. But understanding your paycheck? Equally important!
Decoding the Stub
When payday arrives, you’ll get a pay stub—either electronically through HRMS Self Service or mailed to you.
Here’s what it shows:
- Gross Pay – Your total pay before anything is taken out.
- Deductions – Taxes, insurance, and retirement contributions.
- Net Pay – The amount you actually take home.
Don’t forget: benefits like health insurance are part of your paycheck story. They may reduce your take-home pay, but they’re worth it!
When You Get Paid
Most employees at NDSU are paid twice a month. Mark your calendar for the 15th and the last day of the month.
Here are a few tips:
- Set up direct deposit to get paid faster and safer.
- Check your W-4 form to make sure the right taxes are coming out.
- Use Employee Self-Service to update banking or tax info anytime.
Got Questions About Pay?
The Payroll Office is a great place to ask about taxes, hours, or anything that shows up funny on your stub. Don’t hesitate!
Perks and Benefits
Your paycheck is just the start. Working at NDSU comes with great benefits.
Here are a few highlights:
- Health Insurance – Coverage for you and your family.
- Retirement Plans – Plan for the future today.
- Tuition Waivers – Take classes for free or reduced cost!
Plus:
- Wellness Center Memberships
- Discounts at local businesses
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health and life help
Grow with Professional Development
Learning doesn’t stop after college. NDSU invests in YOU with great professional development options.
Training Opportunities
Want to improve your skills? Start with Learning and Organizational Development (LOD).
They offer:
- Workshops on leadership, communication, and more
- Online Courses for flexibility
- Lunch & Learns – Grab your sandwich and some new knowledge!
Visit their website to see what’s coming up next. It’s like Netflix… but for personal growth.
Tuition Waivers and Continuing Education
If you’re dreaming of a new degree or just curious, take a class! NDSU offers staff the chance to enroll at low or no cost.
Whether you want:
- To brush up on Excel
- Start a master’s degree
- Take a fun class in art, music, or history
You can do it. Talk to HR or your supervisor to get started.
Conferences and Networking
NDSU supports attending events like:
- Industry conferences
- Training seminars
- Leadership retreats
These are great chances to grow your network and bring fresh ideas back to campus.
Work-Life Balance Matters
You’re not just an employee. You’re a person with a life outside work. NDSU gets that!
Here’s how we help keep the balance:
- Flexible scheduling (when possible)
- Generous leave options
- Resources for childcare and elder care
- Wellness days or staff appreciation events
Getting Help and Finding Information
Not sure where to go with a question? Start with Human Resources or visit ndsu.edu/hr.
You’ll find:
- Contact info
- Policy manuals
- Benefits and payroll documents
- Links to training and development
Your supervisor or department admin can also help clear things up.
Keep It Positive
Love something about your job? Say so! Have a concern? Share it. NDSU values feedback and continuous improvement.
Join employee groups, attend campus events, and get involved. It’s your campus too.
In Conclusion…
Being part of North Dakota State University is more than just a job. It’s about growing, learning, and thriving—every paycheck, every policy, every opportunity.
And remember:
- Policies protect and guide
- Paychecks are just the beginning
- Professional development turns a job into a career
So dive in, ask questions, and take charge of your journey at NDSU!
