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New Hire Onboarding Checklist

Provided by Catapult HR: a step-by-step framework for compliant, effective employee onboarding.

Pre-Boarding (Before Day 1)

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Send offer letter and collect signed acknowledgment
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Initiate background check and verify references
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Prepare workstation, equipment, and access credentials
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Send welcome email with first-day logistics and parking info
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Assign onboarding buddy or mentor
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Add new hire to payroll and benefits enrollment systems
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Prepare I-9, W-4, and state tax withholding forms

First Day Essentials

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Conduct facility tour and introduce team members
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Review employee handbook and collect signed acknowledgment
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Complete I-9 Section 2 (must be done within 3 business days)
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Enroll in benefits and explain eligibility timelines
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Set up direct deposit and verify payroll information
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Provide overview of company mission, values, and culture
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Review safety procedures and emergency exits

Week 1 Milestones

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Complete all required compliance training (harassment, safety, data privacy)
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Schedule recurring 1-on-1 with direct manager
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Review role expectations, KPIs, and performance metrics
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Introduce key cross-functional contacts and stakeholders
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Verify all systems access is working (email, HRIS, project tools)
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Confirm benefits elections before enrollment deadline

30 / 60 / 90 Day Goals

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30 Days: Employee demonstrates understanding of role, completes all required training, and builds key relationships
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60 Days: Employee contributes independently on core tasks, receives first informal performance check-in
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90 Days: Formal review of onboarding goals, performance discussion, and development plan for next quarter

Systems & Access Provisioning

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Email and calendar access provisioned and verified
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HRIS profile created with correct job title, department, and manager
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Time tracking system access and training completed
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Company intranet and document repository access granted
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Security badge or building access issued
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VPN and remote access configured (if applicable)

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