Satisfaction with the Work Done in University Employees: A Study from a Developing Country

Abstract

Job satisfaction is the positive emotional state derived from job appraisal and work experiences and is influenced by factors such as leadership, work engagement, the work done, relationships with co-workers, and salary. On a university level, employee satisfaction and engagement can affect both the performance and success of the institution as well as students’ learning. That is why understanding these factors is essential. In this context, this paper sets out to identify the factors of job satisfaction that influence the work engagement of university employees. The study focuses on the Dominican Republic, a developing country with different socio-economic environments. A sample of 468 questionnaires was obtained from university employees. The data collected were analysed using SPSS and Smart-PLS. The results showed that employee job satisfaction was the most significant factor influencing employee engagement. This suggests that when employees are satisfied with their jobs, they are more likely to be engaged with their organisation and show a higher level of dedication and effort in their jobs. However, it was not possible to corroborate the influence of satisfaction with leadership, satisfaction with salary, satisfaction with promotions, and satisfaction with co-workers on the university employee’s engagement. The results present implications and future research prospects. Among the main limitations of the study, it is worth noting that the sample was limited to employees of a single university, and other factors were not considered in the proposed model that could influence job satisfaction and commitment in university employees.