Flexible Scheduling Definition

Term Definition
A staffing schedule arrangement that allows individuals to have some level of control over the hours they work. It is a key component to a flexible workplace and in many telecommuting situations.

Extended Definition
The U.S. Dept. of Labor defines that a flexible work schedule allows the employee to work other hours outside of the traditional 9 to 5, 40-hour workweek. It may allow the employee to arrive and leave work at different times. The employer and employee agree to some requirements for work hours. For example, some employees may work a set number of hours per week, but control which hours those are. In other cases, the employee can come and go as needed, working a specific number of hours, but must be present during core times.

There is no legal requirement under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) addressing this type of scheduling. However, the employer may not take liberties in dictating hours work in situations of non-employee scenarios, such as in working with independent contractors. The employer and employee must come to an agreement at the start of the working relationship about what is expected in terms of flexible work schedules. In some cases, the employee’s representative manages this process. Both parties often agree upon changes in these flexible schedules.

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