Questions
- How do new employees get computers or laptops at Bowdoin?
- Will my new employee have a computer when they start?
- How do I request technology for a new hire?
- Does Bowdoin IT provide computers to all new employees?
- How long does it take to get a laptop for a new employee?
- What happens if a new employee starts before their computer arrives?
- Can casual or part-time employees get a Bowdoin computer?
- What is the Intent to Hire form and when should I use it?
Environment
This article applies to supervisors and managers hiring new faculty or staff at Bowdoin College. It is also useful for new employees who want to understand what technology they can expect when starting. Technology eligibility varies by position type and is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Resolution
How Technology Is Provided to New Employees
Information Technology (IT) receives information about all new hires once their HR paperwork is complete and they have been officially hired. As part of the onboarding process, IT evaluates whether the position is eligible for technology such as a laptop and monitor.
If the position qualifies, a Service Desk staff member will contact the hiring manager to ask for the new employee's platform preference — macOS or Windows. IT then orders the equipment, which will be provided during the new employee's first week.
Allow extra time: IT does not keep large amounts of technology in stock, and purchasing a computer can take two to three weeks. If HR paperwork is not completed early enough, a laptop may not be ready when the employee starts. To avoid delays, supervisors should submit an Intent to Hire form as soon as a hire is planned — this lets IT begin the process before all HR paperwork is finalized. The Intent to Hire form is available in the Related Services section of this article.
Technology Eligibility
Not all positions qualify for new technology. Eligibility depends on the employee's role and the type of position. Each new hire is reviewed individually.
- Full-time faculty and staff are generally eligible for a laptop and monitor based on their role.
- Casual employees are generally not eligible for new technology. However, if the position requires computer use in a non-shared workspace, a loaner device may be available. Service Desk staff will work with the supervisor to identify options.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.