College of Technology

CO-OP WAGE WAIVER AGREEMENT

(This statement is used in the CO-OP application process for those who are completing an unpaid CO-OP course.)

I am requesting to participate in a cooperative education course (TECH 2890, 3890 or 4890) without financial remuneration at the company listed in this CO-OP application (at the time of application). I am aware that CO-OP students are required to receive a reasonable wage for their cooperative education work experience.

I am aware that the College of Technology Cooperative Education Program (Technology Building, Room 102) has CO-OP positions available in my major that pay a reasonable wage for cooperative education courses/work experiences.

I am aware that the College of Technology Cooperative Education Program does not sanction unpaid CO-OPs.

I understand that I am required to obtain approval from my faculty advisor prior to applying for an unpaid CO-OP position and have taken the proper steps in doing so.

TO QUALIFY FOR AN UNPAID CO-OP, YOU MUST HAVE: 

• Attempted to first secure a paid CO-OP position, unless the position does not meet your personal career goals.
• Have the ability to be financially secure while completing your CO-OP course.

• Understanding of the Fair Labor Standards Act (detailed below):

  CO-OP POLICY ON FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT (from United States Department of Labor)

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  Under the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, an employer is not required to pay a student who qualifies as a learner or trainee (e.g. a CO-OP student). However, it does not exclude the firm from paying, it simply exempts them from minimum wage requirements.
  
  If a student is completing the below requirements for a CO-OP, they are exempt from the employer providing compensation for work performed:
  

  1. The work performed is directly related to educational coursework.
  2. Course credits are received for work performed, or, student is required to complete the work to graduate.
  3. Student must complete a report of their work experience and submit it to a faculty supervisor.
  4. Written documentation from the student’s school confirming the CO-OP has been approved as educationally relevant.
  5. Learning objectives are clearly identified.
  6. Student spends no more than 50 percent of their time performing work also completed by other employees.
  7. The employer will teach the student a skill, process, equipment use or about the business, in general.
  8. The student is supervised by a regular employee of said employer.
  9. The employer has not guaranteed the student a job upon completion of the CO-OP.

  
  Information provided and developed in concert with the National Association of Colleges and Employers and the United States Department of Labor.