Applies to:	Original Policy Date:	Date of Last Review:	Approved By:
All Florida Tech Staff	May 16, 2022	July 2023	Dr. John Nicklow President

Policy Title

Employee Probationary Period Policy

Policy Owner: Office of Human Resources

Policy Purpose

The Probationary Period provides an opportunity for the supervisor and employee to assess the employment relationship. The Probationary Period allows supervisors to oversee an employee’s work, offer advice to increase effectiveness, or when warranted, dismiss the employee.

Policy Scope

This policy applies to any newly hired employees.

Policy Statement

All staff employees new to a position at Florida Tech will serve and successfully complete an initial six-month probationary period.

In situations where a department requires additional time to assess an employee's performance, the Office of Human Resources may authorize the extension of a Probationary Period. Employees must be informed of an extension, in writing, prior to the expiration of the initial Probationary Period.

When employees are absent from work for a total of 10 working days or more during their Probationary Period, the period may be extended by the length of the absence. When the supervisor's position is vacant during an employee's Probationary Period, the supervisor hired to fill the vacant supervisory position may extend the Probationary Period by the length of the vacancy.

A Probationary Period does not guarantee employment for the six-month period, an employee may be terminated for any reason at any time, either during the Probationary Period or after completing it, if authorized by the Office of Human Resources.

Completion of the Probationary Period does not entitle an employee to remain employed by Florida Tech for any definite period of time. During the probationary period, both the employee and University are free, at any time, with or without notice and with or without cause, to end the employment relationship. 

Definitions

For the purpose of this policy, the terms below have the following definitions:

Probationary Period: Introductory six-month period, which may be extended, that allows both supervisors and employees to assess the working relationship and performance.

Responsibilities

All individuals to whom this policy applies are responsible for becoming familiar with and following this policy. University supervisors are responsible for promoting the understanding of this policy and for taking appropriate steps to help ensure compliance with it.

Enforcement

Failure to comply with this and related policies is subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment, in accordance with applicable disciplinary procedures.