PSS Search Process Options

Determine the Type of Search

When defining the position for your upcoming hire, a determination needs to be made about which type of search will be used. Review the options below.

Best Practices

  • A regular search should be conducted whenever possible. This is considered an external posting. 
  • Search committees consist of 3-5 people, including the inclusion advocate and a PSS member.

Note: This is a broad overview of the each process, not a complete list of steps that are required.


"External Posting" heading

This is the regular search process. Vacancies will be posted as an open search available for both internal and external applicants.

  1. Follow the recruitment process.
  2. The position is advertised on the GVSU Careers website and appropriate publications for a minimum of 7 working days.
  3. The Search Committee interviews candidates and makes recommendations to the Appointing Officer.
  4. The Appointing Officer makes final decision and routes the decision via Workday to Human Resources for review and approval.

"Internal Posting" heading

An internal search is advertised campus-wide only and must be approved by the Appointing Officer, Alliance President, Chief Alliance Steward, Affirmative Action, and Human Resources before the search process begins.

  1. Follow the recruitment process.
  2. The position is advertised as 'Internal to GVSU’.
  3. The Search Committee interviews candidates and makes recommendations to the Appointing Officer.
  4. The Appointing Officer makes final decision and routes the decision via PageUp to Human Resources for review and approval.

"Organizational Advancement" heading

An organizational advancement is considered if the individual you would like to advance currently works under the same appointing officer. Must be approved by the Appointing Officer, Alliance President, Chief Alliance Steward, Affirmative Action, and Human Resources before the search process begins.

  1. The Supervisor notifies the Appointing Officer of the vacancy and the desire to organizationally advance a current staff member.
  2. If approved, the Appointing Officer notifies their Human Resources Business Partner.
  3. Human Resources notifies the appropriate approving bodies for review and approval.


Page last modified May 1, 2024