Some Crucial Information About Per Diem Employees in California

If a worker is classified as per diem, they do not have a regular work schedule. Per diem employees work on an as-needed basis. In other words, these employees work the hours assigned to them, which means the number of hours a per diem employee works can fluctuate. Today, a per diem employee might work six hours, and tomorrow they might work eight hours. This category of employees is common in several industries, including healthcare, construction, and restaurant industries. Per diem employment can benefit employees. However, people considering a per diem position must take the decision seriously, as per diem employment usually requires an employee to give up some benefits. Read on to learn more about per diem employees in California.

Defining Per Diem Employment

Per diem is a Latin term that means “per day.” As already mentioned, per diem employees do not have a regular work schedule. A per diem employee enjoys a flexible work arrangement. A per diem employee works hours as assigned. They work the hours their employer needs them. So per diem employees do not have to commit forty hours a week to job duties.

Even though this arrangement does not work for all employees, many find the flexible schedule allows them to spend more time with their families.

How are Per Diem Employees Paid?

Per diem employees are not paid an hourly rate. Neither are they paid a salaried rate. These employees are paid on a per diem rate. Because of the short notice per diem employees are usually given, the per diem rate is often higher.

Per Diem Employees and Benefits

A percentage of per diem employees sacrifice some benefits for the flexibility they get to enjoy. Usually, per diem employees have to forego paid time off, health insurance, and retirement benefits. It is crucial for people considering a per diem position to think carefully before making a decision. Paid time off, healthcare insurance, and retirement benefits are all valuable benefits.  

In California, an employer must inform an individual of the benefits they can receive as a per diem employee and those they will have to forego. If you are considering this form of employment, take time to weigh the costs and benefits according to your situation before making a decision.

Full-time vs Part-time Per Diem Employees

One crucial thing you need to track if you are a per diem employee is whether you are a full-time or part-time per diem employee. You are a full-time employee if you work at least 30 hours a week. If you are a full-time employee, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires that your employer provide healthcare insurance.

You also need to keep track of your work hours to determine if you are eligible for paid time off. If you work more than 1,250 hours over a twelve-month period, you are entitled to paid time off according to the FMLA.

Apart from keeping track of your hours, ensure you record your hours. This way, you can be able to prove that you are entitled to paid time off or healthcare insurance.

Contact a California Employment Lawyer

If you are a per diem employee in need of legal help or are considering per diem employment and need legal guidance, contact a California employment lawyer near you.