Ask HR: Are You Working Full-Time Hours in a Part-Time Job?

SHRM President and Chief Executive Officer Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, answers HR questions each week.

Do you have an HR or work-related question you’d like him to answer? Submit it here.

I’m a college student who recently took a part-time summer job. For the last two weeks, my employer has relied on me for over 40 hours a week. If I’m working at this rate, should I qualify for full-time benefits? — Gordon

As a college student taking on a part-time summer job, navigating the intricacies of work hours and benefits can indeed be perplexing. Let’s break this down to provide you with a clearer understanding.

First, it’s important to note that the distinction between full-time and part-time employment isn’t universally defined by federal law. Instead, employers often determine their own criteria for classifying employees unless specific state or local laws indicate otherwise. This means your employer may have the discretion to set the parameters differentiating full-time status from part-time status.

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Given that you’ve been working over 40 hours per week, it’s natural to question whether you qualify for full-time benefits. Federal law doesn’t offer a one-size-fits-all definition, but some regulations could apply depending on your situation. For example, under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), if you work for a company with 50 or more employees, you generally become eligible for health insurance if you consistently work at least 30 hours per week. Additionally, under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), working 1,000 hours within a year may grant you eligibility to participate in your employer’s retirement plan.

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It’s worth reviewing your company’s employee handbook or consulting your HR department to understand their specific policies regarding employment classification and benefits eligibility. HR can clarify the criteria they use to determine whether an employee is considered full time or part time and what benefits you may be eligible to receive based on your current work schedule.

Balancing work hours and school commitments can be challenging, and it’s essential that you feel secure in your employment status and benefits. As you continue to navigate this busy period, ensure that you take the time to have this important conversation with HR. This will provide you with the guidance you need and ensure you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to under your employer’s workplace policies.

Best wishes, and I hope your concerns are resolved promptly to your satisfaction.

I’ve spent my career cultivating relationships with customers, colleagues, and vendors. I want to start making a career shift. How can I best leverage my career relationships to aid in my job search? — Dina

First, let me commend you on your foresight and aptitude in fostering relationships throughout your career. It’s a skill many overlook, but one that can significantly ease the transition into a new role or industry. Leveraging these cultivated connections effectively can provide you with more opportunities than you’d expect.

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If you plan to use individuals as references, reach out to them beforehand. Requesting their permission not only demonstrates your respect but also ensures they’re prepared to offer the strongest possible endorsement.

Remember, networking revolves around cultivating lasting and reciprocal relationships. Your connections can be instrumental now, and your success in your new role may position you to return the favor in the future. A consistent engagement with your network, grounded in sincerity and mutual respect, will allow these relationships to flourish continually.

Also, remember: Your career network is dynamic — it’s a two-way street, with periods of giving and receiving. Don’t hesitate to call upon the support you’ve nurtured over the years; it’s a testament to the solid relationships you’ve built. Your diligence in maintaining these connections is likely to yield significant advantages over the course of your career. Good luck!