Labor Law Definition of Full Time Employee

If you’re looking for a definition of a full-time employee, you’ll have to seek that definition from your employer. Labor laws regulate the wages you receive for hours worked, time off and other benefits.

Full-Time Employee Definition

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) does not determine full-time or part-time hours. Employers determine this matter.

Hours

Most employers consider an employee full-time when she works between 35 to 40 hours in a week.

Overtime

An employer must pay an employee at least one and a half times his regular pay for all hours over 40, according to the FLSA. However, even if your employer considers 35 hours a full-time schedule, you aren’t paid overtime wages until you work over 40 hours for the week.

Schedules

It is a misconception that the FLSA determines a full-time work schedule such as 7 to 3, 8 to 4, 9 to 5, 7 to 7 or any other schedule. An employer and employee determine a flexible work schedule that works best.

Breaks and Lunch Periods

Federal law does not mandate employers give full-time employees breaks or meal periods. If your employer does give you a break of 30 minutes or less, federal labor law considers the break to be compensable and included in your sum of hours worked for the week.

References

• U.S. Department of Labor: Full-Time Employment
• Business Directory: Full Time Employment