Understanding Per Diem Employee Work Hours

The concept of per diem employment involves employees who are hired on an as-needed basis. This means they are brought in to cover specific needs or fulfill duties when necessary. If you're considering hiring per diem employees or are curious about how they work, here's everything you need to know about their work hours.

Overview of Per Diem Employment

Per diem, which literally means "daily," refers to a classification of employees who work based on need and availability. These individuals do not have a set weekly or monthly schedule, and their work hours can vary widely depending on the demands of the organization. Per diem employees typically work fewer hours than full-time employees and often have a more flexible schedule.

This type of employment is particularly useful in industries that require continuous coverage or on-demand support, such as healthcare, hospitality, and customer service. Per diem employees can help organizations maintain their operations even during high-activity periods or when full-time staff members are unavailable due to illness, vacation, or other personal reasons.

Typical Work Hours for Per Diem Employees

There is no definitive answer as to how many hours per diem employees work, as this can vary significantly depending on the organization's needs and the employees' availability. However, many per diem employees can expect to work an average of 8 hours per day. This is a common assumption, but it can be adjusted based on negotiations with the employer and outlined in the contract prior to employment.

As per Genesis HR, the typical workday for a per diem employee might involve:

Flexibility in scheduling Variability in the number of hours worked The ability to work multiple shifts within a week

It's important to note that these hours can be extended or reduced based on the job requirements and the employer's needs. For example, a hospital may require more staff during peak hours, while fewer hours may be needed during slower periods.

Advantages of Per Diem Employment

The clear advantage of having per diem employees is the flexibility and adaptability they bring to an organization. Here are some key benefits:

Flexibility in Staffing: Per diem employees can be called in anytime to cover shortages, ensuring that staff levels are always adequate. Cost-Effective: Since these employees are not paid for unused hours, the cost is more manageable when compared to full-time staff. Adaptability: Per diem employees can adjust their schedules to accommodate unexpected peaks in demand.

For instance, a healthcare facility can maintain a well-staffed building 24/7 by utilizing per diem employees. Even if a high number of full-time employees are out for a single day, the hospital can still operate smoothly with the help of per diem staff. This reserve tank of flexible workers ensures that essential services are never disrupted.

Contract Considerations

It's crucial for both the employer and the per diem employee to have a clear understanding of the work arrangement. Key points to consider when drafting a contract include:

The number of hours expected per day or per week The frequency of shifts and workdays The pay rate and compensation structure The conditions under which the employee can be called in Termination policies and notice periods

Clear communication and a well-drafted contract can prevent misunderstandings and ensure a positive working relationship between the employer and the per diem employee.

Conclusion

Per diem employees offer a valuable solution for organizations that need flexible staffing and can adapt to changing demands. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how many hours per diem employees work, the typical expectation is an 8-hour workday. However, flexibility and negotiation can lead to varied schedules that meet the unique needs of each organization.

If you're interested in utilizing per diem employees or want to learn more about their work hours, conducting thorough research and establishing clear contracts can help ensure a successful and efficient workforce.