Termination of Employment

Employee Notice of Resignation

The University understands that many circumstances arise that may necessitate resigning from employment. If an employee decides to resign, which an employee may do at any time for any reason, they should notify their supervisor or department head in writing at least two weeks in advance of the resignation effective date. If retiring, staff should follow the same procedures as listed above. Employees may not use vacation in any manner to extend their employment ending date. If an employee’s decision to resign is based upon a situation that could be corrected, the employee is encouraged to discuss it with a supervisor, a department head, Human Resources Business Partner (West Lafayette),  or a representative of his or her regional campus human resources department before making a final decision. 

Accelerating Notice of Resignation

In appropriate circumstances, the University may accelerate an employee’s notice of resignation and make it effective immediately or on any other date. Under these circumstances, an employee will be paid through the last day worked. 

The University’s Right to Terminate Employment

An employment relationship with administrative and operational support/professional staff at the University is on an at-will basis. Therefore, the University has the right to terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice. In situations when Purdue terminates a staff member’s employment, it is in the best interest of the employee and the University to make the termination effective immediately. To accommodate an immediate termination, the University provides separation pay for eligible staff members as outlined in the Separation Pay Policy (VI.F.1). See www.purdue.edu/policies/human-resources/vif1.html.

Exit Interview

If an employee resigns employment, his or her supervisor, department head, Human Resources Business Partner (West Lafayette) or regional campus human resources department may request that the employee participate in an exit interview. The primary purposes of an exit interview are to review benefit eligibility, to ensure that all necessary documents have been completed and to provide the employee with an opportunity to discuss job-related experiences. If an employee wishes to initiate an exit interview, the employee should contact a supervisor, department head or their Human Resources Business Partner (West Lafayette) or the regional campus human resources department.

Vacation Leave and Personal Holiday

If an employee resigns or employment is terminated for any reason, the employee will be paid any accrued, unused vacation leave.

Returning University Property

At the time employment ends, an employee must return to his or her supervisor, or Human Resources representative, all University property including, but not limited to, keys, tools, clothing, parking permits, computers, cell phones and books.