Purpose of the Handbook
The University of North Georgia (UNG) Employee Handbook serves as a central reference for all faculty, staff, and administrators. It outlines policies, procedures, and expectations that guide daily operations and foster a respectful, inclusive, and productive environment. While the handbook provides comprehensive guidance, individual policies may be supplemented by state law, collective bargaining agreements, or specific campus directives.
All employees are encouraged to read the handbook annually and stay informed about updates posted on the UNG intranet.
Employment Basics
Classification of Employees
- Fulltime faculty: Tenuretrack, tenureeligible, and contract faculty who meet teaching load requirements.
- Fulltime staff: Administrative, technical, and professional staff working 35 hours or more per week.
- Parttime/seasonal staff: Employees whose work is limited by semester or specific projects.
- Student employees: Graduate and undergraduate students hired for campusbased positions.
Equal Employment Opportunity
UNG is an equalopportunity employer. Discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status is prohibited. The university complies with TitleVII, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and all applicable state statutes.
Hiring Process
The recruitment cycle includes posting the vacancy, reviewing applications, conducting interviews, and extending a written offer. Background checks and verification of credentials are mandatory for positions requiring direct student interaction or access to sensitive data.
Benefits & Compensation
Salary Structure
Compensation is determined by collective bargaining agreements (where applicable), market surveys, and internal equity studies. Salary ranges are posted on the Human Resources portal.
Health & Welfare Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage with multiple plan options.
- Life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment coverage.
- Shortterm and longterm disability benefits.
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA).
Retirement Plans
Eligible employees may participate in the State Employees Retirement System (SERS) or the Georgia 401(k) plan, with matching contributions available for qualifying staff.
Leave Policies
Leave categories include:
- Annual (vacation) leave accrued based on years of service.
- Sick leave used for personal illness, medical appointments, or caring for a family member.
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for qualifying family or medical reasons.
- Military leave in accordance with federal law.
- Bereavement leave up to three days for the death of an immediate family member.
Workplace Conduct
Code of Ethics
All UNG employees are expected to act with honesty, integrity, and professionalism. Conflicts of interest, misuse of university resources, and academic misconduct are strictly prohibited.
Harassment & Discrimination Prevention
The university maintains a zerotolerance policy for sexual harassment, bullying, and any form of discrimination. Procedures for reporting concerns are confidential, and retaliation against reporters is not tolerated.
Use of Technology
Computer and network resources are provided for official university business. Acceptable use includes:
- Protecting confidential information.
- Following copyright and licensing rules.
- Refraining from installing unauthorized software.
- Using university email for professional communication.
Dress Code & Appearance
Employees should dress in a manner appropriate to their role and the campus environment. Faculty teaching facetoface classes are expected to maintain a professional appearance, whereas staff in nonpublic areas may dress in businesscasual attire.
Safety & Security
Emergency Procedures
UNG follows the Georgia Emergency Management guidelines. Employees should familiarize themselves with the campus emergency notification system, evacuation routes, and designated assembly points.
Workplace Safety
The Office of Risk Management conducts annual safety training, including fire safety, firstaid, and ergonomics. All incidents must be reported promptly to maintain a safe environment.
Title IX and Sexual Violence Prevention
Title IX compliance ensures a campus free from sexual harassment and assault. The handbook outlines reporting options, support services, and investigative processes.
Additional Resources
For detailed policy language, please consult the following online resources:
- UNGA Employee Handbook Official PDF
- Benefits Portal
- Human Resources Policies
- Office of the Ombudsman
- Risk Management & Safety
If you have questions not covered in the handbook, contact the Human Resources department at hr@ung.edu or call (706) 5622513.
