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Human Resources

Make A Lasting Impact

Florida Polytechnic University is powered by people who are passionate about innovation, discovery, and student success. Our faculty and staff bring creativity, expertise, and dedication to a campus that is shaping the future of STEM in Florida and beyond.

Here, you’ll find a vibrant community where collaboration sparks new ideas, professional growth is encouraged, and every employee plays a vital role in preparing the next generation of leaders.

Florida Poly is a place where your contributions make an immediate and lasting impact.

Explore Careers

863-874-8425

hr@floridapoly.edu

Main Campus:
IST Building, 2nd Floor
4700 Research Way
Lakeland, FL 33805

South Office:
Polk State Lakeland Technology Building, Room 1139
3425 Winter Lake Rd
Lakeland, FL 33803

Services

Explore options related to employee benefits, professional development, accessing resources, and more:

Benefits & Wellness
Discounts & Perks
Awards & Recognitions
Learning & Professional Development
Collective Bargaining
HR Toolbox
Meet the Team

Benefits & Wellness

Florida Poly offers more than a job—we provide benefits that support your health, financial security, and work-life balance.

From comprehensive insurance and retirement plans to generous leave, tuition waivers, and wellness resources, our employees enjoy the support they need to thrive at work and beyond.

Florida Poly employees have access to a wide range of health and insurance benefits through the State of Florida to support their individual and family needs. Coverage options include medical, life insurance, and flexible spending accounts—all offered as pre-tax plans to maximize savings.

Benefits are administered through People First, which manages new hire enrollment, coverage changes, premium payments, and dependent eligibility. For assistance, the People First Service Center is available Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. EST at 866-663-4735.

Health & Prescription Drug Plan

Each health option covers most of the same types of services, but provides those services and shares costs with you in a different way.

  • Standard PPO
  • Standard HMO
  • High Deductible PPO
  • High Deductible HMO


Prescription drug costs differ depending on what health plan you decide to enroll in and whether the prescription drug is a generic, a preferred brand-name or a non-preferred brand-name.

Dental

The State of Florida offers you comprehensive dental coverage through an array of dental plans:

  • Prepaid
  • Dental PPO
  • Indemnity w/ PPO
  • Indemnity


Vision

Caring for your eyes is a very important part of your overall health and wellness. That’s why the State offers you competitive vision coverage at affordable rates.

  • Exam Plus

Life Insurance

The State of Florida offers group term life insurance to eligible employees and their dependents.

  • Basic
  • Optional
  • Dependent Spouse
  • Dependent Child


Other Supplemental Plans

The state offers active employees the opportunity to participate in optional, employee-pay-all, supplemental insurance plans.

  • Accident
  • Cancer
  • Disability
  • Hospital Intensive Care
  • Hospitalization

Savings & Spending Accounts 

The state offers eligible employees three reimbursement accounts that can provide you with a tax break on your predictable out-of-pocket costs.

Flexible Spending Accounts 

  • Health Care FSA
  • Limited Purpose FSA
  • Dependent Care FSA


Health Savings Accounts

State of Florida Retirement Options

It’s never too early or too late to invest in your future. The state’s retirement plans provide ample opportunities for employees to save for the future. 

The Florida Retirement System Pension Plan is a defined benefit plan that pays a guaranteed lifetime monthly benefit using a formula based on service and salary while working for an FRS-covered employer. Pension Plan participants who reach their normal retirement date may take advantage of the Deferred Retirement Option Program (DROP) program.

The Florida Retirement System Investment Plan is a defined contribution plan where the benefit depends on the amount of money contributed to the employee’s account and its growth over time. Participants decide how to allocate the money in their account among the available investment funds.

The State University System Optional Retirement Program (SUSORP) is a defined contribution plan where the benefit depends on the amount of money contributed to an employee’s account and its growth over time. Participants decide how to allocate the money in their account among the available investment funds. Available to faculty and A&P employees only.

Voluntary Retirement Plan

Florida Deferred Compensation/457(b)

Retiree Privileges & Benefits

Florida Poly values the contributions of our retirees and is proud to offer continued privileges and benefits as a thank you for your service to the University.

  • Email Address – Retirees may keep their Florida Poly email (“@floridapoly.edu”) and set it to forward to another account if desired. For assistance, call 863-874-8888.
  • Florida Poly ID Card – Retirees are eligible for a university ID card, which provides access to Library Services and the Fitness Center.
  • Tax Sheltering – Eligible retirees may shelter leave payouts (annual, compensatory, and in some cases sick leave) to reduce taxable income. Academic year faculty receiving lump sum payments may also qualify.
  • Health Benefits – Options are available for both Medicare-eligible and non-Medicare-eligible retirees, with resources on coverage and costs.
  • Health Insurance Credit – Retirees with at least 15 years of service credit may qualify for a monthly, tax-free credit to help offset health insurance premiums. The credit is $4 per month for every year of service (e.g., $80 per month with 20 years of service).

To help promote work-life balance, Florida Poly provides a generous leave program, which includes paid time off, holidays, and sick leave. All employees working in full-time administrative and professional positions, support personnel and 12-month faculty positions are eligible to accrue annual leave and sick leave hours during each pay period.

Faculty working in a 9-month position are only eligible to accrue sick leave hours during each pay period.

  • FMLA
  • Medical
  • Personal
  • Professional Development
  • Parental
  • Military Leave

The purpose of the Workers’ Compensation Act is to provide compensation to an employee for the loss of his or her opportunity to engage in work when the disability is occasioned by an injury suffered from an accident arising out of and during the course of their employment.

Florida Poly’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) (administered by Baycare) provides free and confidential access to a wide range of services to help employees and their family/household members.

From work issues to problems at home, issues affecting an employee’s personal or professional life can be addressed with Baycare’s short-term assistance services. They provide an initial assessment, assist with problem resolution, and initiate referral services for the employee or their family members if necessary.

Help is available for:

  • Alcohol and drug abuse
  • Anger management
  • Anxiety
  • Grief
  • Financial stress
  • Relationship issues
  • Stress
  • Personal problems
  • Family concerns
  • Raising children

Learn more about the Employee Assistance Program by calling 800-878-5470.

Subject to University regulation FPU-4.002 and University policies, full-time Florida Polytechnic University employees who meet academic requirements may, if approved by their supervisor, register for up to six (6) college credit hours per semester at Florida Poly on a space-available basis. Eligible employees may assign up to six (6) of their undergraduate credit hours or up to three (3) graduate credit hours per semester to their dependents (spouse or children listed as dependents for tax purposes) who meet academic requirements and are admitted to the University.

Employees are responsible for completing the form, obtaining the appropriate signatures, and submitting the form to Human Resources for approval prior to registering for the course.

Discounts & Perks

In addition to a robust benefits package, Florida Poly employees benefit from many perks and discounts.

Florida Poly Perks

On campus, employees are invited to participate in free intramural sports program, join the fitness center at a reduced rate, sign up for discounted meal options, and more:

Florida Poly’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) (administered by Baycare) provides free and confidential access to a wide range of services to help employees and their family/household members.

Florida Poly employees can enjoy convenient and affordable dining options on campus through Block Plans and Phoenix Funds.

Block Plans provide a set number of dining hall swipes at a discounted rate for employees. Swipes can also be shared with guests (up to 3 per meal period).

Rollover: Meal swipes and Phoenix Funds roll over from Fall to Spring, but expire at the end of the Spring term.

Plan Payment Options:

  • Payroll Deduction
    Price will show as $0.00 at checkout; payroll is notified automatically once you complete the purchase.
    Deductions are spread evenly across pay periods and completed by:
    • December 15 (Fall semester)
    • April 30 (Spring semester)

Phoenix Funds work like a prepaid campus debit account and are accepted at all dining locations.

  • Dollar-for-dollar value
  • Purchase through the Transact Store
  • Payment by credit card, debit card, or electronic check only (no payroll deduction)

Funds roll over from Fall to Spring, but expire at the end of the Spring term.

If you don’t have a meal plan, you can pay per meal with a credit or debit card.

  • Breakfast – $9.00
  • Lunch – $13.50
  • Dinner – $13.50
  • Child – $6.75

The Florida Poly Fitness Center is a welcoming space where students, faculty, staff, and guests can pursue their health and wellness goals in a safe, supportive, and energizing environment.

Our facility features state-of-the-art cardio and strength equipment, plus dedicated areas for aerobics, dance, and CrossFit-style training—making it easy to find a workout that fits your style and experience level.

Beyond the equipment, the Fitness Center offers convenient amenities including locker rooms with showers, lockers (available upon request), and changing areas. Whether you’re looking to build strength, increase endurance, or simply stay active, you’ll find the resources you need here.

Florida Poly employees can enjoy full access for just $10 per month. Membership is required to use the facilities. To join, complete the membership form and email it to Shannon Medley at smedley@floridapoly.edu.

Recreational Sports
Faculty and staff are encouraged to participate in university’s Recreational Sports programs offered through Student Development.

Community Discounts

When you join the Florida Poly team, you don’t just get a job—you gain access to exclusive discounts and perks on local and national goods, services, and recreational activities. From everyday savings to special offers, these benefits help make life outside of work easier, more affordable, and more fun.

Corporate Shopping connects employees to over 250 top national retailers offering incredible employee discounts and private offers. A few popular retailers include: Costco, Sam’s Club, Expedia.com, Booking.com, TrueCar Employee Auto Purchasing and many more. Start enjoying incredible savings. 

The Lakeland Symphony Orchestra offers all Florida Polytechnic University students a free student ticket online for symphonic concerts. No code is required. Just choose “student” when selecting your seats. All Florida Polytechnic University faculty and staff may also receive a free adult ticket by using code FLPOLY at checkout. Contact the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra office for more information at 863-688-3743 or email at info@lkldsymphony.org.

Get discounted tickets at Medieval Times for an epic battle of steel and steed as six brave knights showcase spectacular horsemanship and swordplay while competing in an authentic jousting tournament.

Take advantage of discounts and special offers from Tickets at Work on travel and entertainment, discounts on hotels and rental cars and savings on brands you know and love. It’s cost-free and easy to enroll. Just visit TicketsatWork and use company code FPUPERKS to start saving.

Get to a healthier place with Anytime Fitness. Employees can receive 50% off the sign up fee and 10% of the monthly rate. Pick the membership plan that best suits you and apply the discount to that plan. Must present a valid Florida Poly ID to obtain the discount.

Get 50% off any of the CPR, First Aid, or BLS certification courses. Faculty, staff, students, and alumni can use the code STUDENT50 to receive the discount. There is a maximum discount of $50 if purchasing more than one course or when used for group enrollments.

Enjoy discounted rates at Planet Fitness with a valid Florida Poly ID:

  • The Classic Membership– $10 to join and $10 per month with an annual fee (one time per year) of $39.
  • The Black Card membership includes amenities–$0 down and $21.99 a month with an annual fee (one time per year) of $39.

For more information call Laura Webb at 863-853-3322.

Chirp offers discounted audiobooks for purchase with no subscription or membership fee. Use code FLORIDAPOLYEMPLOYEE20 which is good for 20% off your first audiobook. If you have any questions, email support@chirpbooks.com.

ComputerXpress offers the largest supply of recertified computers, desktops, and laptops in Lakeland. Employees receive 15% off all services and computer systems in stock. Must present a valid Florida Poly ID at checkout.

GS-JJ is a professional promotional gift merchandise company with over 20 years business experience. We offer lapel pins, stickers, medals, coins, lanyards, keychains, wristbands, etc. We offer a 10% discount to all Florida Poly faculty, staff, and students. Order online using your Florida Poly email and use FLORIDAPOLY10OFF to receive a 10% discount.

The HP Employee Purchase Program (EPP) offers HP consumer products at discounts typically up to 10% off starting prices. Use Code: EP17047 when registering.

Tech-Perks is an easy and intuitive platform for Florida Poly employees to take advantage of huge discounts on brand name consumer electronic products including: smartphone cases, chargers, screen protectors, Bluetooth headphones and speakers, chargers, and so much more!

  • Brands like Otterbox, JBL, Casemate, Kate Spade, Rifle Paper, Belkin, Popsockets, Skullcandy and many more.
  • Free and Exclusive Closed off site for just approved employees.
  • Up to 75% off MSRP. All products are brand new in retail packaging.  
  • Free shipping on any order over $45 or higher. 

Click Sign Up, Enter Your Membership Code (FLORIDAPOLY) and Create Your Account – then enjoy the savings!

Employees can save up to 25% OFF on base rates at Avis. Click on the link above or call 800-331-1212 and use discount code AWD# D134100.

Employees can save up to 25% off base rates at Budget. Click on the link above or call 800-455-2848 and use discount code BCD#: Z408900.

Employees save up to 25% using CDP# 1742729 at Hertz car rental.

Price4Limo is a ground transportation provider for limousine, party bus and charter bus services which are commonly used for weddings, birthdays, sporting events and more. Their service is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year for your transportation needs. Get a $100 discount for Florida Polytechnic employees on the initial charge at time of booking. Email information@price4limo.com from your university email to redeem the discount and get excellent trip assistance.

Save up to 20% off the Best Available Rate per night at almost 7,000 Wyndham Hotel Group Hotels around the world. Brands include: Wyndham Hotels, Wyndham Grand Collection, Days Inn, Ramada, TRYP by Wyndham, Wyndham Garden, Hawthorn Suites, Baymont Inns & Suites, Night Hotels, Howard Johnson, Microtel, Super 8, Knights Inn, Travelodge, Wingate, & Dream Hotels.

Must book in advance using the discount code 1000010476. For more information, call 800-364-6176.

Use College Hunks Hauling Junk and receive 10% off moving, move labor, furniture staging, junk removal, estate clean-out, and more. Use code POLYHUNKS for services in Polk and Eastern Hillsborough counties. For services in Orlando, call 386-479-6967.

Use Discount Mini Storage and get your second month free. Must present a valid Florida Poly ID card to redeem this discount. Enjoy great prices, a large selection of sizes, climate controlled and friendly on-site management.

Highland Homes offers employees $3,000 in FREE new home upgrades. For more details on this exclusive offer, community information, and to find your new home, call the New Home Specialists at 863-797-4999.

Florida Poly employees will receive the following benefits when scheduling a move with Two Men and a Truck:

  • Trained, professional, uniformed movers
  • $25 off fuel surcharge
  • 25% off packing materials
  • Priority scheduling and flexibility

If you have questions or want more information, click the link above or email nationalaccounts@twomen.com to begin the process.

Vendor Participation Request

The Florida Poly Perks program connects our employees with exclusive discounts from local, national, and online businesses. If your business would like to be featured, please complete the Vendor Request Form. For questions, contact hr@floridapoly.edu.

Participation Guidelines

  • Each offer must provide Florida Polytechnic University employees with a discount or special incentive.
  • Discounts must remain available for at least one year.
  • Offers should provide a minimum of 10% savings (businesses may determine the specific type, value, or amount).
  • All requests are reviewed and posted to our website on a quarterly basis.

Awards & Recognitions

At Florida Poly, people are our greatest asset—and we love celebrating the talent, dedication, and innovation our faculty and staff bring to campus every day.

Our annual Ascend Awards Celebration honors the extraordinary professional achievements and outstanding service of Florida Poly employees. Each spring, the University community comes together to recognize those who go above and beyond in advancing our mission, strengthening our culture, and inspiring excellence across campus.

Stay tuned for Ascend 2026 celebration event details!

Big or small, every act of excellence deserves recognition. Culture Coins are a simple yet powerful way to say “thank you” and celebrate colleagues who make a difference. Whether it’s exceptional teamwork, innovation, or everyday support, Culture Coins shine a spotlight on the contributions that make Florida Poly a great place to work.

Request a Culture Coin

Not every celebration needs a stage. We encourage leaders and peers alike to recognize success in timely, meaningful, and personal ways—from a word of appreciation in a team meeting to celebrating milestones together. Recognition doesn’t always require a budget—it requires authenticity, encouragement, and a culture that values people.

Informal Recognition Ideas

Learning & Professional Development

At Florida Poly, we believe investing in our people is the best way to invest in our future. That’s why we provide a variety of opportunities for faculty and staff to strengthen their skills, grow as leaders, and thrive in a rapidly evolving workplace.

Through our partnership with Coursera, employees have access to world-class courses designed to meet the demands of today’s digital world. Coursera offers:

  • Engaging, interactive learning from leading instructors.
  • Flexible, self-paced study with short, accessible sessions.
  • University-accredited certifications in high-demand fields.

Employees can also earn Professional Certificates in areas such as Cybersecurity, Social Media Marketing, and Data Analytics.

To begin your Coursera journey, contact the HR Learning & Professional Development team at HR@floridapoly.edu.

Florida Poly’s Leadership Academy is designed to develop exceptional managers by broadening their perspectives, strengthening leadership skills, and equipping them to make a lasting impact on their teams and the university community.

Coming Soon! Florida Poly Pathways will provide employees with new opportunities for professional growth, career advancement, and networking—tailored to meet the evolving needs of our workforce.

The Value of Professional Development

Participation in professional development programs is a powerful step in your personal and professional growth. These opportunities are designed to:

  • Expand your skills and knowledge.
  • Strengthen your effectiveness in your current role.
  • Prepare you for future opportunities inside or outside the university.

Completion of a program is a significant achievement, but it does not automatically guarantee a promotion or new position. The true value lies in the skills, insights, and relationships you gain—tools that will serve you throughout your career journey.

Collective Bargaining

Learn about the university’s collective bargaining agreements, processes, and employee representation.

Explore Collective Bargaining

Meet the Team

Rising to new heights together—Florida Poly is built by passionate faculty and staff who shape the future of STEM. The Human Resources team is here to support you with opportunities for growth, competitive benefits, and a workplace where you can do your best work. Join us and be part of building the future of STEM.

Eunice Alberson

Associate Vice President
Human Resources/CHRO

863-874-8423
ealberson@floridapoly.edu

Federico "Rico" Despiau

HR Coordinator, Recruiting and HRIS

863-874-8507
fdespiau@floridapoly.edu

Kelly Hart

HR Coordinator, Recruiting

863-874-8422
rhart@floridapoly.edu

Barbara Jones

Administrative Assistant III

863-874-8821
barbarajones@floridapoly.edu

Kelsey Nemeth

Human Resources Business Partner, Compensation & Benefits

863-874-8402
knemeth@floridapoly.edu

Contact Us
863-874-8425  |  hr@floridapoly.edu

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