Frequently Asked Questions

1. When does the OEOP review applications and invite candidates for interviews?
OEOP reviews applications as they are received and invites some candidates for interviews on a rolling basis until positions are filled. For roles with SEED Academy, the OEOP typically begins reviewing applications in June for the Fall semester and in December for the Spring semester. For roles with MITES/MOSTEC, the OEOP typically begins reviewing applications in February.  Submission of an application does not guarantee that candidates will be invited for an interview.

2. I just finished my freshman year in college, can I apply to be a Teaching Assistant or Online Facilitator?
Yes! In order to be eligible for our TA, OF, and/or PF roles, applicants must have completed at least 1 year of college. Please read job descriptions for additional qualifications.

3. When is the application deadline?
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all positions are filled. The OEOP will have several priority deadlines that will be posted on the staffapp homepage.  Applicants who submit their applications before the priority deadline will be given preference in the respective review cycle.

4. When should I expect to receive an offer to work for an OEOP program?
The OEOP extends job offers on a rolling basis. For roles with MITES/MOSTEC, candidates can expect to hear back from us regarding an offer by the end of April. If you need an update sooner than that, we encourage you to email us at staffapp@mit.edu.

5. Where can I learn more about OEOP programs?
You can learn more about our programs via our website at http://oeop.mit.edu. If you're looking for more details on the OEPP program timeline and staff position details, view these MOSTEC and SEED Academy Information Slides. 

6. Will I qualify for MIT benefits via a position on the OEOP Programs Staff?
​No. The OEOP hires its program staff members as independent contractors. Independent contractors do not qualify for MIT benefits including, but not limited to, health insurance, retirement, vacation, etc.

7. Can I apply to be considered for more than one position?
​Yes! If you meet eligibility requirements, and your schedule permits, we encourage you to apply for more than one position. You will have the option to indicate your preferences. If you express interest in multiple positions, you may be invited for multiple interviews. For additional information regarding OEOP program schedule and staff roles, view these MOSTEC and SEED Academy Information Slides. 

8. Do I have to be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident to apply for a staff position?
There is not a citizenship requirement, however applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US. The OEOP does not sponsor work visas for program staff.

9. What are the eligibility requirements?

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States of America. The Office of Engineering Outreach Programs (OEOP) does not sponsor work visas for employees.
• If hired, applicants must at least be 18 years old on or before the beginning date of employment 
• Non-MIT affiliated candidates must meet the following criteria to ensure compliance with US payroll law:
  • Must be based in the US (they can leave the US for no more than 30 days)
  • Must have a US address 
  • Must have a US bank account
  • Must be authorized to work in the US
  • Must complete onboarding materials (including notarization of relevant forms) in the US at least 5-7 days prior to start date.
• For MIT affiliated candidates:
  • Since this qualifies as MIT on-campus work, MIT international degree candidates on MIT immigration documents are eligible to apply. Contact the International Students Office or the International Scholars Office to confirm eligibility.
  • Other MIT employment may impact eligibility for the job due to potential conflicts. MIT postdocs are not eligible. Please reach out before applying with any additional questions.
• Applicants must provide references who can speak toward his/her work experience and/or character.
• As the OEOP works with minors, employment offers are contingent upon satisfactory completion of background check.

10. What types of courses do OEOP Project Course instructors teach?

Project Courses have varied over the years, and often change based on the expertise and interest of the instructor designing the course. If you're hired to design and teach a  Project Course, you will be asked to propose your course title, description, key learnings, materials, prerequisites, and final project topic(s) to the MOSTEC or SEED Program Administrator. Then, you will be given a syllabus template and will have allotted time to design and plan for your 5-8 week course. If you're interested to see the types of

MOSTEC courses that have existed in the past, click here to view past Project Course offerings and course descriptions. See job description pages for current SEED semester course offerings.

11. What does the MOSTEC schedule look like?

MOSTEC spans over 6 months (June - Dec) and the schedule, time requirements, and appointment dates vary by position. View the informational slides for details and a sample schedule and timeline by position.

12. What does the SEED Academy schedule look like?

Each SEED semester takes place over 8 Saturday sessions between Aug - Nov for the Fall and Feb - May for the spring.  Staff are hired for semester-long appointments with opportunites to return for future semesters. Specific SEED Saturday schedule, time requirements, and appointment dates vary by position. View current position descriptoins for schedule and timeline by position.

For any additional questions, please email staffapp@mit.edu.