Dual Career Services (DCS) at the University of Iowa supports the spouses/partners of our new employees in finding meaningful employment opportunities within the university and the surrounding community.
By offering personalized career counseling, resume review, and job search assistance, we aim to make your transition to the Iowa City area as smooth and rewarding as possible.
With a strong emphasis on work-life balance, professional development, and a vibrant community, we strive to ensure that you and your family can thrive here.
You can work with a DCS coach if you're the spouse/partner of a newly hired permanent faculty or staff member and have lived in the Iowa City area for less than two years.
How it works
- A member of the Talent Acquisition staff will meet with you to determine your employment goals.
- We will review your resume/curriculum vitae (CV) and provide feedback based on the local job market.
- We will help connect you with local contacts and work to find job openings that fit your goals. Our team has access to job openings in the area and within the university.
- Our team has extensive experience in all facets of the job search process and can provide a range of services tailored to you.
- We will work with you until you're employed for up to one year.
Please note that DCS is a resource provided by the UI and is not intended to take the place of your own job search efforts.
Services We Offer
Services we provide:
- Career coaching with an experienced career consultant
- Resume/CV review
- Interview techniques and an opportunity for a mock interview
- Assistance with writing a cover letter
- Advice on negotiating salary and benefits
- Access to job openings at the University of Iowa and at companies in the Iowa City area
Frequently asked questions
Will I be given preferential treatment for University of Iowa positions?
No, being the spouse/partner of a UI employee does not guarantee a job here. However, in our experience, spouses/partners who work with our staff during their job search find employment sooner.
Can you help me find employment outside of the University of Iowa?
Yes. Dual Career Services maintains an extensive network of about 500 contacts throughout the Iowa City area. We strongly suggest you explore the employment opportunities throughout "The Corridor," a term used to describe the seven-county region surrounding Iowa City and Cedar Rapids.
Do you have experience finding employment in my profession?
It's hard to imagine a career we haven't seen before! However, it's your responsibility to educate your DCS coach about your past employment experiences and job skills.
My job experience is unique. What if I can’t find something in my line of work?
We recommend approaching your job search with an open mind. When meeting with a career coach, have a few alternatives ready to explore that might fall outside your "dream" job.
Can I work with DCS more than once?
No, we can only work with you once. However, once you're employed, you will gain valuable networking contacts that should come in handy during future job searches.
What's the typical process for getting hired in a P&S or faculty position?
The hiring process may look different depending on the position you're applying for. Meeting with a DCS coach can help you better understand the process that pertains to your specific situation.
What are the different types of employment available at Iowa?
Generally, jobs at Iowa fall into four broad categories: Professional & Scientific (P&S), Merit, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and Faculty. Jobs.uiowa.edu is your hub for all open positions at the university. Please keep in mind that DCS can't submit job application materials on your behalf.
Can I list my DCS coach as a reference on job applications?
No, DCS doesn't provide references, but if you apply for a job at the university, you can ask your career coach to write a letter of support for your candidacy.
What kind of jobs are in the Iowa City area?
In addition to the University of Iowa, there are four colleges within driving distance of Iowa City for those looking for academic positions.
Throughout "The Corridor" (a term used to describe the seven-county region surrounding Iowa City and Cedar Rapids), there is an array of industry ranging from manufacturing and technology to financial services and medicine.
Can DCS help me find a faculty position?
If you're the spouse/partner of a new faculty member, we recommend that your spouse/partner informs the relevant department chair that you're interested in a faculty position. Please feel free to contact us and we can provide guidance around applying for faculty positions.