Questions
- What is a contractor account at Bowdoin?
- What is a collaborator account, and who is it for?
- How do I request a contractor or collaborator account for someone?
- What is the difference between a contractor and a collaborator or researcher?
- My department hired a temporary worker — how do I get them access to Bowdoin systems?
- Can a contractor or collaborator get a Bowdoin email address?
- How long does a non-employee Bowdoin account last?
- Are there limits to what contractor accounts can access?
- Is there a difference between a collaborator and a researcher account?
Environment
This article applies to academic or administrative departments at Bowdoin that need to provide system access to non-employees — including contractors, researchers, collaborators, or other temporary workers. Account requests must be made by the individual's direct supervisor or department coordinator.
Resolution
Non-employee accounts can be created for temporary workers who need access to Bowdoin services. These accounts are commonly referred to as contractor accounts or collaborator accounts (collaborators are sometimes also called researchers).
What non-employee accounts provide
Non-employee accounts can be granted access to a variety of Bowdoin systems and services, including a Microsoft 365 mailbox and online access to Microsoft Office products. Access to specific applications and services is requested separately to ensure permissions are limited and appropriate for the individual's role.
Note: Contractors and collaborators are not generally issued Bowdoin technology. However, their sponsor or supervisor may request a loaner laptop for the duration of their engagement.
Account duration and termination
All non-employee accounts require a start date and end date when requested. The account will be automatically terminated at the end of the business day on the specified end date. Plan ahead if the engagement is extended — the account should be updated before it expires.
How to request a non-employee account
Account requests must be submitted by the individual's direct supervisor or department coordinator — not by the non-employee themselves. Use the appropriate request form in the Service Catalog (see the Related Services section on this page):
- Collaborator or Guest Account Request — for researchers, faculty collaborators, and guests working with a Bowdoin department
- Contractor Account Request — for contractors or temporary workers hired through a third party
Important: Access to each Bowdoin service must be requested individually. A contractor or collaborator account does not automatically gain access to all systems.
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.