Why Work at UCO?

At UCO, salary is just one component of the many benefits available to faculty and staff. Overall, we come out ahead of what’s considered the “norm” at many companies and organizations in the U.S. Excellent benefits, dedication to work-life balance and professional development opportunities are just a few reasons to join our team.

Employee Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package to full-time faculty and staff, which includes medical, dental, vision, life, disability and gap insurance. We also provide contributions to your account with the Oklahoma Teachers’ Retirement System and the ability to make additional contributions to voluntary 403(b) and 457(b) plans.

When viewed holistically, our benefits far exceed what competitors at most major corporations and organizations have to offer. Our compensation and benefits package adds great value to each paycheck. Do more than make a living; make a life. 

Compensation and Benefits at UCO

LEGAL DISCLOSURES

Employer-Paid Benefits

UCO contributes to medical coverage for all full-time faculty, staff and their dependents; plus we fund a percentage of the individual's salary into the Oklahoma Teachers' Retirement System (OTRS) less the annual individual contribution. UCO pays for all full-time employees to receive an advanced long-term disability benefit and two times the individual’s annual salary in basic life and AD&D insurance.

Employee Assistance Program

UCO faculty and staff have access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through Deer Oaks and Hartford. EAP benefits start day one for all UCO faculty and staff and continues six months after separation. EAP provides free and confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals, financial planning, vacation planning, legal guidance, prevention and education services for you, your dependents (whether they live at home or away) and anyone who lives in your household.

2023 Certified Healthy Business

UCO was recognized as a Certified Healthy Business in 2023 by the Certified Healthy Oklahoma Business Program. Certified Healthy Business was created to recognize Oklahoma businesses that promote health and wellness for their employees.

Work-Life Balance

Up to 52 days of vacation/health and wellbeing per year.* As part of its generous benefits package, the university provides the opportunity for each individual to earn paid time off through a leave accrual program. The program includes all approved leave, such as vacation, health and wellbeing, personal leave and more.

*exact number subject to change annually - based on full time staff schedule (faculty periods may differ).

Culture

We ensure faculty and staff stay connected to our mission and vision. From campus and community events that support our diverse student population, affinity groups in which to belong, and a our  continuous cultural competence learning experiences, to philanthropy resources and ways to give, being an employee means being a member of the UCO Family.

Affinity Groups at UCO 

Retirement Options

Voluntary contributions to 403(b) or 457(b) plans through Voya Financial are available to all non-student permanent employees via a flat amount or percentage of earnings, contributed before or after taxes. We have a dedicated team at Voya to help employees plan and save for the future.

VISIT RETIREE PAGE

Tuition Waiver

As a full-time employee with the university, we offer a tuition waiver, which can be used by the employee or transferred to a dependent. The tuition waiver benefit applies to tuition only for classes taken at UCO. The benefit is defined as the value of 14 credit hours of undergraduate general tuition in each academic year not to include differential tuition or fees.

EMAIL US!

Diversity

We actively foster learning and working environments that recognize and celebrate difference. Our mission is to advance cross cultural intelligence while providing opportunities for students, faculty and staff to learn, thrive and succeed. Explore our inclusive community.

INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY at UCO

Employee Wellness

All full-time employees have free access to UCO’s Wellness Center. Additionally, UCO’s Physical Activity Policy provides employees two hours of working time each week to participate in physical activity. (subject to supervisor approval)

Visit The Wellness Center

Opportunities for Development

We offer a variety of virtual and in-person training resources throughout the year. UCO’s Talent Development team offers leadership, team-building and skills trainings for all levels of employment within UCO.

Talent Development

Oklahoma 529 College Savings Account

The Oklahoma 529 College Savings Plan (OCSP) is a state-sponsored, tax-advantaged 529 college savings plan that helps families and individuals plan for the cost of higher education. UCO makes it especially easy to contribute through payroll deduction. The minimum contribution is $15 per investment option, per beneficiary, per pay period. Learn more about the Oklahoma 529 College Savings Plan on the OSCP website.

Free Parking

All full-time employees receive a paid parking pass for on-campus parking.

Local Business Discounts

The goal of Shop Central is to encourage UCO students, alumni and employees to find new and unique local spots while supporting the Edmond and Oklahoma City metro communities. The best part? These businesses are offering you an exclusive discount or special offer. Just present your UCO ID at any of the participating vendors to receive your discount or follow the instructions provided if purchasing online!