Flexible Scheduling 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.

Flexible Scheduling 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.

A flexible schedule may allow an 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.

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. Both parties often agree upon changes in these flexible schedules.

There is no legal requirement under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) addressing flexible scheduling. However, the employer may not take liberties in dictating hours of work in situations of non-employee scenarios, such as in working with independent contractors.

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Last Updated By

Rachel Blakely-Gray | Apr 27, 2023