How to Find and Apply for a FWS Position

Where to Apply

Like all student positions, FWS positions are found through the Student Employment Talent Management System(TMS). For tips on using the system, check out the Student Playlist on using the TMS system on YouTube. As you are reviewing postings, keep in mind that having a FWS offer does not limit you to working in only FWS positions - you are welcome to apply for Non-FWS positions as well.

Be Sure to Check Out Our Resources and Common Questions Page Before Applying

FWS Program Student Statement

As you apply to FWS positions, you will be required to attach your FWS Program Student Statement (PSS) to your applications. The "About Your FWS Program Student Statement" document will show you how and where to find the FWS PSS in BanWeb.

When to Apply

Most employers search for students to fill positions close to the beginning of the Fall semester each year, but there are opportunities posted throughout the year as the need arises. As the school year progresses, it becomes more difficult to find a position.

How to Be Successful in Your Position Search

Students are strongly encouraged to:

Check out our Summer Programming Resources, and Common Questions page.
Review the Resume and Cover Letter Guides for student positions.
View the video on Keys to Getting an On-Campus Job.
Make an appointment with a Career Coach through Handshake for help with resumes, cover letters, and interview preparation.
Utilize VMock (PDF) that automatically checks your resume for simple things like formatting. It is a very useful tool that you can use to get immediate feedback on your resume.

Making sure you are prepared for the application process will increase your chances of success in finding a position!

What to do once offered a position

Once an employer has offered you a FWS position, there are still a number of things that have to be done before you may start working.

Offer letter: After you have applied and your new employer has been approved to start your hiring process, you will receive an electronic offer letter through the SE Talent Management System. You must sign this online in your applicant portal.
Background check: Depending on your position, you may be required to complete a background check. The position posting will indicate if this is a requirement. Background check invitations are sent to your @gwu.edu email address through GW HR and Sterling Systems.
Onboarding process: When the offer letter is signed and the background check is complete, Student Employment will start your onboarding process. You will receive a list of action items to complete in the SE Talent Management System -Employee Records.
- All new student employees will be required to complete sections 1 and 2 of the federal Form I-9. This will require you to show, in person, required documentation. Per federal requirements, original (not scanned, copied, or digital) documents must be provided in person when you complete the form.

You will receive email notices throughout the hiring processes notifying you of your next steps. Please pay close attention to your email so there is no delay in your start date. For help with using the Talent Management System throughout the hiring process please review the Student User’s Guide and our walkthrough video on the Student Employee Hiring Process.

BEFORE YOU START WORKING you must receive notice from Student Employment that you have been completely hired and are allowed to start working. Even if you have completed all necessary paperwork, you are not yet cleared to begin unless you have been specifically notified by us. This notification will come to your GW email account and will request that you do a final sign-off on your Position Acknowledgement Form. If you started working before you have received that notice - please pause work until you are cleared and email our office so that we can help you and your supervisor complete the necessary paperwork before you continue working.

How to Contact Student Employment

Student Employment is available by emailing [email protected] or calling 202-994-8046. We are also available for virtual appointments for employers and students; please visit our Support Meeting website to schedule your appointment.