What Is Part-time Work?According to some studies, 18 percent of the American workforce does not work the traditional Monday-Friday workweek, and the 9-5 workday. Most states define a part-time worker as one who works less than 40 hours per week. This may give workers more flexibility in their workweeks and make them more satisfied with their jobs.
Are there Drawbacks?There are certain economic disadvantages to part-time work. If you are thinking of going part-time, you should weigh the costs and benefits of doing so. For example:- Career advancement ¿ Your career advancement may slow down.
- Clients ¿ Some clients require full-time service and a part-time worker may not be able to provide that for them.
- Work environment ¿ Some part-timers feel the pressure to prove themselves as no less than a full-time employee. Also, because of a part-timer¿s schedule, there may be less time to socialize with colleagues.
- Pay gap ¿ Part-time workers may not always receive the same hourly rate as full-time workers, even if they should. There may be variations depending on the occupation.
- Alternatives ¿ You may want to think about telecommuting or taking advantage of childcare options.
What Obligations and Rights Do I Have as a Part-time Employee?Generally, you must still comply with the same company rules, policies, and procedures as full-time employees. Most part-timers are not entitled to company benefits (i.e. extended vacations, pension and profit-sharing plans, health insurance). Sometimes, states will grant coverage to those who work more than a certain number of hours. Also, under federal law, employees who work 1,000 hours in a pension plan year must be included in pension plans that are offered to other similar workers. Other things to remember include:- Equal Pay Act ¿ Part-time workers are not subject to the rules that men and women doing the same job must be paid equally.
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) ¿ Companies are exempt from the FMLA when they employ a sufficient number of temporary, contract employees or part-time workers.
- Workplace rules ¿ You may be terminated for poor performance. You are subject to the company¿s work rules and requirements (just as other workers).
- Pay ¿ Payroll deductions and taxes will be reflected in your paycheck.
- Legal obligations ¿ The company must still comply with safety regulations, must not make promises it does not intend to keep, and must avoid discriminatory acts.
Do I Need an Experienced Employment Law Attorney?As a worker, it is up to you to decide whether the benefits of taking a part-time position outweigh the costs. A lawyer would be able to inform you of your rights as a part-time worker, but ultimately the choice to become one is up to you. |
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