Are there ways that I can find out if a health care career is what I want?
Once you've discussed your interest with a career counselor or teacher, there are several ways to begin exploring a career in health care. First you can sit down and discuss, one on one, what a career with UMHS is really like from someone who knows exactly what it's like—a current member of the UMHS team!
Or, you may want to have a someone (or several people) visit your school or event to share their UMHS experience and details about their specific career. You can even schedule a group tour of our facilities.
Finally, you can find out more about the amazing possibilites in healthcare by visiting Michigan Health Council or Health Opportunities for Today and Tomorrow.
- General tours — Sam Jessie
- Allied Health — Barb Wingrove
- Nursing — Nursing Recruitment
I understand you have volunteers. What is the time commitment? How old do you have to be?
Yes, we do have a variety of volunteer opportunities. For complete details and requirements, visit the Volunteer Section of our website. There is, however, an age requirement of 16 years and a time commitment of 4 hours per week for a calendar year (or school year).
Is there an opportunity for job shadowing? Where do I begin?
Yes, a job shadow experience (usually scheduled for no more than 4 hours) can be arranged by individual staff members through their department. If you would like additional information, please contact our Human Resources coordinator at (734) 647-1894.
What are other jobs that can I apply for while attending high school?
Temporary positions are great for students. You will most commonly see positions in the following areas: Clerical/Secretarial, Food and Patient Nutrition, Environmental Services, Material Services and, if over 18, Adult Patient Sitter. In your community, other options in health care may exist like nursing homes (aids and volunteers), community services and senior citizen communities. (Temporary positions are not posted, are they?). Visit www.hr.umich.edu/temps
Does the University offer summer employment? What is the process for applying?
We sure do! During the summer you can find amazing opportunities through Temporary Staffing Services. For more information, visit our website at www.hr.umich.edu/temps.
How old do you have to be before you can apply for a job at the University?
In most cases, and in all cases for direct patient care positions, you must be 18 years old to apply. However, there are some positions where the minimum age requirement is only 14.
Can you tell me about scholarships?
There are a variety of U of M scholarships worth looking into.
To view a selection, visit the Scholarships Section on our website. Other references you might find helpful include:
- www.estudentloan.com
- www.scholarships.com
- www.finaid.com
- www.mhc.org
- www.michiganhosa.org
- www.college-scholarships.com
What jobs do you have that don't require a college degree? Are special certifications required?
While most jobs at UMHS do require previous experience, the typical entry level position does not requre a degree. For a quick reference and more information about what jobs at UMHS might work for you, visit our Classification website.
What colleges/universities offer the education required for a particular job?
If you already know which field of health care you're interested in, it's already time to start looking for the college or university that has the courses and/or curriculum needed to reach your goals. A helpful resource while you research is the Michigan Health Council.
How many years do you have to attend college or what degree is required for a specific job?
Educational requirements vary depending on the career you choose. You can find experience and educational requirements for a specific career at Health Opportunities for Today and Tomorrow or at the UMHS website.
Whom should I contact to learn more about this field (or a particular position)?
If you're a student, you can begin talking to your guidance counselor or health/science teacher. You can also contact professional organizations like UMHS for more information or visit websites like Michigan Health Council or Health Opportunities for Today and Tomorrow.
Are there other ways I can "get my foot in the door"?
Get out there! Volunteer at UMHS or mentor youth in your community. The more experience you have working with people the more prepared you'll be to enjoy a rewarding career in health care.
What jobs make the most money? What is the average pay?
While we usually don't quote a specific salary, the jobs that require the most education and experience are the most well-compensated. Whatever your postion, you can have faith that UMHS offers competitive pay and generous benefits.
What is the application process? How do I apply? Where should I go to apply?
You can find all the tools you need to apply at umjobs.org. For those seeking temporary positions, just drop by Wolverine Tower on State Street in Ann Arbor for more information or visit www.hr.umich.edu/temps. View directions.
What do you look for in a resume? Is a cover letter necessary?
Getting a resume noticed is the first step to success. (This doesn't mean colored or scented paper, by the way.) Make sure it's no more than two pages and MAKE SURE you check for spelling errors. A cover letter is always good when you are applying for a specific opening and you feel you have certain qualities and experience that would make you well-suited for the position.
Does the University require pre-employment testing? What is the process?
Yes we do. Pre-Employment Program (PEP) testing is held for all entry-level positions at UMHS. Selected candidates will receive notification if/when screening is required.
Are any of the jobs at the University of Michigan union jobs?
Yes, there are number of unions contributing to the success of UMHS including:
- House Officers - HOA, Nursing
- MNA (Michigan Nurse Association)
- MVNA (Michigan Visiting Nurses Association)
- AFSCME (American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees)
- UMSTU (University of Michigan Skilled Trades Union)
- POAM (Police Officers Association of Michigan)
- Local 547 IUOE (International Union of Operating Engineers)
- LEO (Lectures Employee Organization)
- GEO (Graduate Employee Organization)
- IATSE (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees)
Where do you currently have openings? How often should I check for newly posted positions?
For current listings, visit our website at umjobs.org.If available, new positions could appear daily.
What are the benefits like at UMHS?
At UMHS, we take care of our employees. In fact, our benefits are among the most competitive and comprehensive in the region. For detailed information, take a look at our benefits. We also have a tuition reimbursement program to help ease the burden of debt and student loans when you join UMHS. Learn more.















