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  HR Checklist of Topics
As an entry-level engineer, in terms of the savings plan benefits your company offers, the biggest asset you have is time. In the coming years you can take full advantage of the magic of compound interest. For example, say your starting salary is $48,000 per year (which is about average for ME graduates). If you start by placing 10% of your salary or $4800 per year in the company savings plan for 30 years at an annual rate of 8%, you will have accumulated $588,000. In reality, if you stayed with the 10% investment savings, your actual totals would be higher because this calculation did not factor in your salary increase each year. Take advantage of the company savings plan and make it a goal to save 10% of your salary each year. Many companies add to this benefit by providing matching contributions based on a minimum contribution from the employee.
 
The HR representative will provide you with brochures and literature on all of the company options. You usually don't have to sign up that day. Take the time to review each program and decide what options are best for you. Confer with your friends, family and coworkers.

Below is a checklist of topics you should be familiar with before you leave HR:
Work Schedule and Lunch Period (Your supervisor might also provide this information)
Payroll Period and Direct Deposit Information
Paid Holidays, Sick Days or Personal Days (How many and when are you eligible?)
Vacation Days (How many and when are you eligible?)
Company Employment Policies such as: Use of Electronic Communications Systems, Conflict of Interest, Business Travel, Drug Use and Smoking, Personal Use of Company Resources, Dress Code, etc.
Benefits (Life Insurance, Health, Disability, Accident, Savings Plan, Retirement Plan and Tuition Reimbursement)
If the HR representative does not review these items, make sure you ask about them or confer with your supervisor to have all your questions answered. At most companies, your benefits package is not implemented until you pass a probation period. The amount of time can vary from 60 to 120 days. Make sure you are aware of when this period ends and any special requirements you might need to fulfill.