Navigating Alternative Hiring Options at UCLA
While many staff hires follow standard recruitment processes, certain situations call for alternative hiring types or special procedures. UCLA is committed to maintaining fair, policy-aligned, and flexible hiring practices that meet both operational needs and compliance requirements.
This page serves as a starting point for hiring managers to explore other appointment types and procedural options available outside of traditional career recruitment. Whether you’re filling a short-term operational need, bringing back a retiree, or requesting a recruitment exemption, it's important to understand the appropriate pathways, requirements, and approvals involved.
Below, you’ll find quick access to guidelines and tools for various non-standard hiring options.
Hiring Types & Procedures
Contract Appointments
For positions with defined timeframes and deliverables, contract appointments may be a viable option. Learn about appointment limits and conversion considerations.
Limited Appointments
Ideal for temporary needs not expected to exceed 1,000 hours in a rolling 12-month period. Learn about appointment options and limits.
Exemption Requests
In certain cases, recruitment may not be required for positions based on specific criteria. This section outlines allowable exemptions and how to request them.
Waiver Requests
Competitive recruitment is required for all career and contract positions. However, in exceptional circumstances a waiver may be considered. Find out when and how to submit a waiver request.
UC Rehired Retirees
The return-to-work process for UC retirees requires careful adherence to UC policies and IRS regulations. Learn more about approval steps and appointment structures.
Preferential Rehire
Employees who have been laid off may be eligible for preferential rehire rights. Understand your obligations and how to review eligible applicants during recruitment.
Additional Types of Hiring
Student Employee Hiring
Find information you need to know about hiring student employees. You can also visit the Quick Guide for Recruiting UCLA Student Employees.
Temporary Employee Hiring
Find information you need to know about engaging with a Temporary Agency to bring on temporary employees.
Academic Appointment Hiring
Access information and resources for hiring faculty and other academic appointees.
UCLA Health Employee Hiring
UCLA Health Employees are hired through UCLA Health Human Resources. Information on this process can be found at the UCLA Health website or calling 310-267-3292 for support.