Appointments & Promotions

The typical entry point for beginning technical employment at WHOI is at either a Departmental Assistant or a Technical Staff (Associate or Engineer) position on one of the ladders; Science/Research, Engineering, or Information Systems. There is a well-defined branch point from the Departmental Assistant (non-exempt) to Technical Staff (exempt) at the Departmental Assistant III level. Selection of exempt or non-exempt promotion paths beyond this point reflects the individual's career objectives, the Institution's view of his or her qualifications and performance, the Department or unit's need for responsibilities performed at the higher levels, and adherence with the Fair Labor Standards Act. However, transfers between the Senior Assistant I and II positions and the Technical Staff are possible. Transfers between Departmental Assistant and Technical Staff are handled in accordance with normal promotion procedures as described above.

Transfer from the Technical Staff to the Resident Scientific Staff is encouraged if the individual's interests and qualifications are consistent with those of the Scientific Staff. The key motivation is the desire to conduct independent research and to accept the responsibilities of acquiring sources of funding, developing and managing a research team and laboratory, and routinely publishing results in the refereed literature. Transfers are made in accordance with Scientific Staff appointment and promotion procedures.

Transfer from the Resident Scientific Staff to the Technical Staff also is supported if it is clearly in the interests of the individual and the Institution. Such action must be based upon a clear and explicit shift in the professional objectives of the individual. Such transfers require a file appropriate to the desired position, and a detailed statement of objectives by the candidate. The file is reviewed in accordance with Technical Staff appointment and promotion procedures.