You've heard talk about your department restructuring. Maybe your job is funded from grant money, and it's run out. Perhaps the University program you're working for is no longer needed. There are many reasons why you may be facing a position elimination or a position change. Here are some general guidelines about what you can expect if you are a continuing employee.
Please note that I'm summarizing the AD 10.18 policy as of January 2020, and it's subject to change. If you have any specific questions, please contact APSA.
What can I expect if my position has been eliminated?
Your department must give you no less than one month's written notice that your job has been eliminated. It is your department's responsibility to explain why your position was eliminated. This takes place in an in-person meeting. HR is usually involved, and your department will ask you if you wish to have APSA representation. We, of course, feel that it's a good idea to have us present. We are there to support you in any capacity.
Your department will let you know if you are expected to work for that time or they may give you pay in lieu of the one month notice.
If my position is eliminated, does that mean I lose my job?
If a department reorganizes, the University will do all that is reasonably possible to find another APSA position for you. The department or HR may offer you another job that they feel is a good fit.
What if I choose not to take the job?
If you're offered a job that's the same salary grade or one grade lower than your current position, and you don't accept it, then you will not be able to get severance.
What if I want to apply for another position at SFU?
You can apply for any new job postings on the SFU Human Resources website. You will be considered an internal candidate for up to 12 months after your notice period. If you are selected, you can get up to three months of training. But both you and the new department must request this from HR.
If you succeed in getting another SFU position within your one-month notice period, your salary will be frozen at your current salary range. This happens unless (until) your new position's salary range is higher than your frozen salary.
If you're unsuccessful, your employment at SFU will be terminated after your one month's notice and you'll receive relocation counselling.
What about severance?
You may be offered severance depending on the specific situation. Severance pay is usually one month for each year of service and gets maxed out at 18 months of salary.
What happens to my benefits and pension?
Your extended health, Life Insurance and ADD will stop at the end of the notice period. You can ask HR about transitioning your extended health benefits so that you pay them out of pocket.
Your pension can be more complicated and depends on your plans for retirement, years of service etc. It's best to get advice from an external financial advisor before deciding what to do with your pension. You will also need to contact the pension office.
Keep in mind that you'll have access to EFAP during your notice period, which means you have free access to independent financial advisors and career counsellors.
What if I apply for a job outside of SFU? How will this affect my severance?
If you get another public sector job in BC, your severance pay will be affected. It will either stop if the job pays more money or be prorated if the salary is lower than your SFU salary. Here's a list of BC Public Sector employers.
What if I believe this is an unfair elimination?
If you feel that the position elimination is unjust, you can grieve the elimination through APSA.