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The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America’s Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

Posted Job Title

Time Together Student Worker (Remote Required)

Job Profile Title

Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt

Job Description Summary

The Student Worker position is through the Penn Memory Center’s Time Together Program, an IN-PERSON program in which students provide engagement to older Philadelphians IN THEIR HOMES while offering respite to their family caregivers. This program has three primary aims: to improve mood and reduce isolation for older adults; to reduce stress for caregivers and to expose college students to work in the aging sector and to learn about gerontology and memory loss. Students must be in greater Philadelphia to participate in this program. Some of the older adults in this program will be experiencing mild to moderate-stage dementia. In this role, students will serve as companions by engaging in conversation, playing games, going for a walk, or doing other activities that the older person enjoys. Student companionship prevents social isolation and improves the quality of life for their older adult matches while giving their family caregivers a break. Students will be paid $10.00 per hour for their participation. Check out our website for more information! Time Together Respite Program - Penn Memory Center.

To be considered for this position you must also complete our Time Together Application: https://forms.office.com/r/KHf1fagvSh

Job Description

Essential Functions

• Provide caring companionship/engagement to older adults between 4-10 hours per week.

• Develop or implement activities (talking, reading, playing games, listening to music, etc.) designed to provide mental stimulation and reduce social isolation.

• Attend the mandatory virtual two-part training.

• Maintain timely attendance and communicate schedule changes with caregivers or older adults.

• Maintain accurate time logs and provide information in a timely matter to the program staff.

• Communicate with caregivers and program staff to address all preferences and concerns regarding respite care and the care receiver.

General Requirements

• Must be a current college student in the greater Philadelphia area with a proven track record of academic success.

• Ability to engage with an older adult in person in the older adult’s home.

• Complete the required Criminal Background Clearance.

• Experience working with older adults, including those with dementia and similar illnesses is preferred.

• For those without experience, the willingness to learn, listen, adapt, and demonstrate patience in respite care is required.

To be considered for this position you must also complete our Time Together Application: https://forms.office.com/r/KHf1fagvSh

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Remote Required - This position is fully remote with all work performed remotely.

Department / School

Perelman School of Medicine

Pay Range

$7.25 - $10.00 Hourly Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, as well as internal and market factors and grade profile.

Affirmative Action Statement Penn adheres to a policy that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected class.

Special Requirements Background check may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

The University of Pennsylvania's special character is reflected in the diversity of the Penn community. We seek talented faculty and staff who will constitute a vibrant community that draws on the strength that comes with a substantive institutional commitment to diversity along dimensions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, veteran status, interests, perspectives, and socioeconomic status. Grounded in equal opportunity, nondiscrimination, and affirmative action, Penn's robust commitment to diversity is fundamental to the University's mission of advancing knowledge, educating leaders for all sectors of society, and public service. The University of Pennsylvania prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected class.