- The retail sector, hotel and food service industry, public library systems, manufacturing industry, universities, colleges and educational institutions, professional societies, customer service/call center industry, construction and real estate sectors are the biggest creators or avenues of part-time employment opportunities. Depending on skill sets, qualifications, experience and job openings, workers and temporary hires are recruited by business establishments, enterprises, small and medium businesses, social service organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, part-time employment generally entails working less than thirty-five hours in a week. Working hours in part-time jobs can typically range from two to six hours, but always less than eight hours a day. The vocation or occupation, specific industry domain, special requirements of business owners and organizational policies dictate the number of hours that different employees have to put into their respective jobs. Working hours can include early morning shifts, mid-day working hours and even late night shifts.
- Many American workers and some professionals earn far below the U.S. Department of Labor or U.S. Census-defined national average median income from their primary jobs or employment postings. New immigrants, low-wage workers and others take up part-time jobs after or before their primary job working hours to supplement their incomes. Many others also take up weekend jobs in order to supplement their low primary incomes.
- Part-time jobs do not offer the same benefits, perks and compensation packages of a full-time job. Salaries are generally computed by the hours that are put in. Many are also hired as contract workers or are placed on probation with no guarantee of permanent employment. Medical coverage and health insurance is barely covered, if at all, for part-time employees. Part-time employees are not entitled to financial incentives, retirement benefits, stock options and other monetary rewards.
- Extended recessionary periods or economic downturns that ride the crest and trough of business/economic cycles also lead to many unemployed or laid-off workers seeking part-time employment opportunities. Retirees or housewives seeking to earn some extra cash or incidental expenses money also take up part-time jobs. Many individuals also take up certain weekend jobs to occupy their time, indulge their passions/interests or learn some new skills.
