The University of Notre Dame, a prominent Catholic institution in South Bend, Indiana, has recently filed paperwork to employ foreign workers through the H-1B visa program for several positions, including an assistant professor of English and an associate librarian. This move has ignited discussions about the impact on American job seekers.
Positions and Salaries
According to public records, Notre Dame’s Notice of Intent to Hire under the federal visa framework highlights the need for international recruitment. The assistant professor of English role offers a starting salary of over $87,000 plus benefits, a figure that surpasses the salary for a chemistry professor position also intended for international candidates. Additionally, the university plans to fill an associate librarian position at $96,000 annually, alongside roles such as a marketing program analytics manager and a program coordinator for student success, with salaries of $85,000 and $47,000 respectively.
Broader Context and Criticism
Notre Dame is not alone in this practice within Indiana, as other universities in the state have similarly turned to the H-1B program for various roles, including IT positions and sports coaching. This reliance on foreign labor has drawn criticism from labor advocates and immigration experts who argue that it may disadvantage domestic applicants. Kevin Lynn, founder of U.S. Tech Workers, has expressed concerns that competition from foreign workers willing to accept lower salaries could suppress wages for American graduates.
State-Level Responses
While Indiana universities continue to utilize the H-1B program, some states have taken legislative action to address the issue. In January, Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive directive to halt state government entities from petitioning for new H-1B visas. Abbott emphasized that the Texas economy should prioritize local workers and employers, citing concerns about potential abuses in the federal visa program.
The hiring freeze in Texas is set to remain in effect until May 31, 2027, although state employers can request exceptions through the Texas Workforce Commission.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
