What Is the Difference Between Being a Part-Time Employee or a Permanent Part -Timer?

Regular Part-Time Employee

Although the Fair Labor Standards Act doesn't define full-time and part-time employees, part-timers typically work between 10 and 34 hours per week. Part-time workers don't usually receive employer benefits, such as sick pay, vacation, holiday pay and medical benefits, but the decision is up to the employer. If the employer decides to offer benefits to part-time employees, the employer must write the terms in the employee's contract, policy or employee handbook.

Permanent Part-Time Employee

Permanent part-time employees work regular, consistent hours, but less than a full-time employee. Permanent part-timers typically receive the same benefits as a full-time employee but earn them at a reduced rate. For example, if a full-time employee earns one hour of sick pay for every 40 hours worked, the employee will earn one hour per week. A permanent part-time employee who works 20 hours a week will earn one hour every two weeks. Depending on the employee's contract, a permanent part-timer might also earn overtime. For example, if an employee's contract states he'll work 30 hours a week, he'll receive time-and-a-half for the hours he works beyond 30 hours.

Temporary Part-Time Employee

Part-time employees hired by a temporary service are temporary part-time workers. Businesses use temporary services to find employees to work on demand when the current number of employees can't handle a job. A temporary position might last only a few weeks or months, depending on demand. In some cases, businesses use temporary services to recruit employees for a temp-to-hire position, which helps the business find part-time employees who are a good fit for the position. Temporary employees don't receive benefits.

Seasonal Part-Time Employee

A business that provides seasonal services or products might experience a boost in work during a specific season. In this case, the business will hire seasonal workers, in addition to the permanent staff, to help out during peak demand. A seasonal employee, who can work part-time or full-time hours, falls in the category of a part-timer because the employee works only part of the year.