Job Seekers FAQs

Job seekers: find the answers to frequently asked questions about applying for jobs at the Watson Institute, our job benefits, and our workplace culture.

Application FAQs

Q: What are the steps in your hiring process?
A: Once you have submitted your application on the website it will be reviewed by the HR team at Watson. If selected, a recruiter will contact you to provide additional information about the position for which you applied. The recruiter will work with you to schedule an initial interview and any follow-up interviews. Once interviews have been completed, if you have been selected for the position, the recruiter will contact you to make a formal job offer and discuss the next steps in the onboarding process. If you are not selected, you can expect an email communication from the recruiter within one (1) week of interviewing or applying, whichever is later.
Q: What can I expect after I've submitted my online application?
A: Once you have submitted your application on the website, you will be directed to a confirmation page that verifies that your application has been successfully submitted. Your application is automatically sent to Watson’s HR team for review. You will be contacted by the HR team to either proceed in the interviewing process or to notify you that you will not be proceeding to an interview.
Q: Are interviews conducted in-person or virtually?
A: Initial interviews are conducted in person at the Watson Institute location at which the position will primarily work. There may be certain circumstances in which a virtual interview takes place first (ex: relocating to the area at a later date).

Career and Job FAQs

Q: What clearances are required for employment?
A: All Watson Institute employees are required to have current Act 34 (Pennsylvania Criminal Record Check), Act 151 (Pennsylvania Child Abuse History), and Act 114 (FBI Federal Criminal History Record Check) clearances before the first day of employment. Learn more about our job clearances and how to obtain your records for employment. A pre-employment medical examination that includes a tuberculosis test is required.
Q: Do you offer internships?
A: Yes! The Watson Institute provides internship opportunities for fields of study including speech, physical, and occupational therapists, student teaching, social work, nursing, behavior therapy, and mental health, school psychology, and developmental psychology. Learn more about our internship opportunities!
Q: What types of professional development do you offer?
A: The Watson Institute offers a variety of professional development opportunities such as training in the industry’s latest techniques, time off to attend industry and job-related conferences, as well as direct peer support and consultations.
Q: Do you offer job advancements within your organization?
A: Yes! The Watson Institute is dedicated to helping our employees broaden and enhance their skills and we recognize the important role that educational opportunities play in career advancement. At Watson, we support our employees whether they are advancing in their current job, or pursuing another role within the organization.

Job Benefits FAQs

Q: When do benefits start after I'm hired?
A: Eligible benefits become effective on the first of the month following your start date. For example, if you start on February 20th, your benefits will begin on March 1st.
Q: What types of benefits are offered for full-time employees?
A: Full-time employees of the Watson Institute have access to excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage, additional voluntary benefits, life insurance, and short-term and long-term disability insurance at no cost to full-time employees, a 403b retirement plan with employer contribution and match after 1 year of employment, access to tuition reimbursement, and ongoing professional development through continued education classes, trainings, and direct staff support.
Q: Do you offer any benefits to part-time employees?
A: Yes! Part-time employees at the Watson Institute receive company-provided life and AD&D insurance, paid time off based upon hours worked, a 403b retirement plan with employer contributions and match after 1 year of employment, ongoing professional development, and on-the-job training opportunities.
Q: Who is eligible for the tuition reimbursement benefit?
A: Full-time employees of the Watson Institute become eligible for tuition reimbursement once they have completed at least six (6) months of employment. Employees must obtain approval from their supervisor and the Chief HR Officer prior to beginning classes to be eligible for reimbursement. Learn more about our tuition reimbursement benefit for employees.
Q: How can I qualify for student loan forgiveness?
A: The Watson Institute is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Watson’s Friendship Academy is also a qualifying employer for the Teacher Loan Forgiveness program. Learn more about the specific qualifications of these student loan forgiveness programs and how employment at the Watson Institute may impact your eligibility.

Workplace Culture FAQs

Q: How does Watson value work/life balance?
A: At Watson, we understand that the mental and physical well-being of our workforce is of the utmost importance to maintaining a positive work environment. Having a good work/life balance is a critical component of this. Employees are encouraged to utilize their time off benefits and additional support is provided through a number of wellness initiatives and programs.
Q: How does Watson represent diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
A: We focus on providing a supportive culture and environment where individuals of all races, religions, genders, gender identities, sexual orientations, ages, national origins, disabilities, and veteran statuses are welcomed, included, heard, and valued. Our staff are a reflection and representation of the communities we serve. We take time to listen and learn, embracing the culture of our workforce and those we serve and adjusting our work in order to support and celebrate that culture.
Q: What is the dress code at Watson?
A: The Watson Institute’s dress policy advises staff to dress appropriately and professionally. Staff are advised to avoid: open-toed shoes, clothing that appears torn or soiled, hooded sweatshirts, and hats. If wearing leggings, staff are advised that a shirt of appropriate length must also be worn and should reach the top of the thighs. Program-specific dress policies will be provided upon hiring.