How Many Hours Is Part-Time? A Guide for HR Managers

What Is A Part-Time Job?

To define part-time, it’s helpful to look at how employers and countries treat part-time roles. A part-time employee usually works fewer hours than a full-time employee, offering flexibility that appeals to students, parents, retirees, and professionals not looking to commit to a full-time schedule.

These jobs can be permanent, temporary, or seasonal. Some offer paid time off, while others depend on minimum entitlements set by law. The structure may be fixed or flexible.

This type of work-life balance appeals to many, though benefits for part-time employees may be more limited. Still, part-time workers often enjoy opportunities to build experience without needing to work full-time.

Common Examples:

• A retail assistant working three evening shifts per week.
• A barista covering weekend mornings.
• A remote marketing specialist working 20 hours weekly across flexible days.

‍

‍

How Many Hours is Part-Time?

You might wonder, how many hours is a part-time job, or what qualifies under various laws. The number of hours considered part-time can vary significantly depending on the employer, industry, and country. However, a general guideline is that part-time work typically involves fewer than 35–40 hours per week.

As a general guideline, part-time employees usually work anywhere from 10 to 30 hours per week, though some positions may require slightly more or less. Ultimately, part-time status is defined by working hours by country, business needs, the nature of the job, and local labor standards. The exact hours depend on business needs and the nature of the job.

‍

Variations in Part-Time Hours

• In the United States, there is no federal definition of part-time work. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) does not specify an exact number of hours, leaving it to employers to determine whether a role is part-time or full-time.
• In the European Union, many countries define part-time work as less than 30 hours per week. However, the exact threshold may differ from one member state to another.
• In the United Kingdom, part-time work is generally defined as fewer than 35 hours per week.
• In Australia, part-time employees usually work fewer than 38 hours per week, which is the standard for full-time employees in the country.
• In South Africa, full-time work is defined as up to 45 hours per week, meaning part-time work is anything less than that.

‍

‍

What are the Key Differences Between Full-Time vs Part-Time Employment Laws?

Though part-time and full-time roles differ in hours, many employment rights apply to both. When comparing full-time vs part-time employees, the key differences lie in working hours and access to benefits. Many regions follow the pro-rata principle, meaning part-time employees are entitled to a portion of the same employee benefits as full-time staff, like holiday pay, sick leave, and retirement contributions.

However, how these rights apply depends on local labor laws and your employer’s policies. In some countries, part-time workers are entitled to nearly the same benefits as full-time staff, while in others, the gap is wider. For example, under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in the U.S., applicable large employers (ALEs) - those with 50 or more full-time employees - must provide employee benefits to eligible workers who average at least 30 hours a week.

‍

‍

What are the Benefits of Part-Time Hours?

• Flexible Schedule: Part-time jobs often allow employees to choose or adjust their working hours, making it easier to balance personal commitments like family, education, or hobbies.
• Better Work-Life Balance: With fewer hours at the office, part-time workers can enjoy more personal time, reducing burnout and increasing overall satisfaction.
• Additional Income: Part-time roles provide an opportunity for extra income, which can be particularly beneficial for retirees, students, or those supplementing their full-time earnings.
• Career Exploration: For those considering a career change, part-time positions allow individuals to explore different industries or roles without committing to a full-time schedule.
• Reduced Stress: Less time spent at work can lead to a more manageable workload, providing less stress and more time for relaxation and self-care.
• Opportunities for Education: Part-time work allows employees to pursue further education or training while still earning an income and gaining work experience.
• Improved Focus: With a reduced workweek, part-time employees may find they are more focused and productive during their hours on the job.
• Enhanced Job Security for Employers: Employers can tap into a larger talent pool and fill gaps during busy periods without committing to full-time employees, offering them flexibility while maintaining staffing levels.
• Healthier Lifestyle: With fewer work hours, part-time employees often have more time to focus on physical and mental health activities, such as exercise, mindfulness, and socializing.

‍

‍

Part-Time Hours Across Industries

Different industries interpret part-time hours based on their specific operational needs and peak times. Here's how part-time hours typically break down across various sectors:

• Retail: Part-time roles in retail typically range from 20 to 30 hours per week. Shifts can be spread throughout the day, often including evenings, weekends, and holiday periods to meet customer demand. Retail employees are frequently needed at peak shopping times, like after work hours or on weekends.
• Hospitality: In the hospitality industry, part-time roles often vary between 10 to 30 hours per week, especially during busy periods like weekends, holidays, or special events. Positions may include roles in hotels, restaurants, and bars, where employees are needed during high-traffic times such as evenings and weekends.
• Healthcare: Part-time work in healthcare, such as for nurses, medical assistants, and support staff, often involves 12 to 30 hours per week, depending on the shift needs and patient volume. Roles may be available during non-standard hours, including nights and weekends, to ensure continuous patient care.
• Education: Substitute teachers, teaching assistants, and education support staff may work part-time with schedules that range from 15 to 30 hours per week, particularly during school terms. These roles may include direct teaching hours as well as preparation and grading time.
• Technology: Many part-time tech roles, like software development or design, typically involve 20 to 30 hours per week, often with flexible hours that allow employees to work remotely. These positions may be project-based or offer flexible work arrangements based on team needs.
• Customer Service: Part-time customer service jobs, especially in call centers or retail, typically range from 15 to 30 hours per week. These positions often require working during peak times when customer demand is highest, such as evenings or weekends.

‍

‍

 Examples of Part-Time Roles in Different Industries

• Retail: Part-time sales associates might work 20-25 hours per week and be required to work weekends or evenings to accommodate customer traffic.
• Hospitality: A part-time hotel receptionist might work 20 hours a week during weekends, while a barista might work 15 hours during morning rush hours.
• Healthcare: A part-time nurse or medical assistant may work 18-25 hours per week, often covering shifts like evenings or weekends to ensure adequate care.
• Education: Part-time adjunct professors or teaching assistants could have teaching hours ranging from 12-30 hours per week, often dependent on the class schedule and academic terms.
• Technology: Part-time developers may work 20 hours per week, offering specialized skills for short-term projects or freelance positions, with flexibility to work remotely.
• Customer Service: Part-time customer support agents may work 20-30 hours per week, especially during peak hours such as evenings and weekends.

‍

‍

The Implications of Part-Time Hours and Classification

‍

Are Part-Time Employees Entitled to Holiday Pay?

While many part-time workers are entitled to holiday pay, the amount is usually prorated based on the number of hours worked. For example, if a full-time employee receives 16 hours of holiday pay, a part-time worker working half the hours may only receive 8 hours. This prorated approach is common in many countries, including the United States.

‍

Part-Time Employee Benefits and Eligibility

Part-time employees may qualify for some benefits, but these are generally less comprehensive than those provided to workers with full-time employment. A significant difference often lies in health insurance. Full-time workers typically receive more robust health insurance coverage, whereas part-time employees might face limited options.

Benefit availability varies depending on the employer and region. Some part-time workers may have access to health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, while others might only receive legally mandated benefits. It’s essential for part-time employees to discuss their benefits with their employer and carefully review their employment contract to understand what’s available.

‍

Health Insurance for Part-Time Employees

Health insurance is a key concern for part-time workers, as they may not have the same level of coverage as full-time employees. Some employers do offer health insurance to part-time workers, but the terms – such as coverage limits and premium contributions – may differ.

‍

‍

The Costs of Hiring Part-Time Employees

When hiring part-time employees, employers should consider both direct and indirect costs associated with their employment. Here's a breakdown of what to expect:

Direct Financial Costs

• Hourly Wages: Part-time workers are typically paid an hourly wage, which can vary based on the industry, job role, and geographical location. Employers must budget for these wages based on the expected number of hours worked each week.
• Payroll Taxes: Employers are required to contribute to payroll taxes for part-time employees, just as they do for full-time workers. These include Social Security, Medicare, and unemployment taxes, among others, which can increase the total cost of employment.
• Statutory Benefits: In many countries, part-time employees are entitled to statutory benefits such as holiday pay, sick leave, and parental leave. While these benefits may be prorated, they still represent a significant cost to employers. The exact benefits depend on local labor laws and employer policies.

‍

Indirect Costs

• Recruitment Expenses: Hiring part-time employees often involves recruitment costs such as advertising job openings, conducting interviews, and possibly hiring third-party recruiters. These costs may be proportional to the number of positions filled and the level of skill required.
• Training and Onboarding: Part-time employees still require training to ensure they can perform their roles effectively. Onboarding programs, safety training, and company-specific instruction take time and resources. For part-time employees, these costs may be more frequent if workers change shifts or leave more often, creating the need for continuous training.
• Management and Supervision: Part-time employees may require more supervision or coordination, especially if they work irregular hours or in multiple shifts. The time managers spend organizing schedules, ensuring adequate coverage, and overseeing performance contributes to indirect costs.
  ‍

Legal and Compliance Considerations

• Labor Laws: Employers must comply with national and local labor laws when hiring part-time workers. This includes ensuring that part-time employees receive the proper compensation, benefits, and working conditions under applicable labor regulations. Failure to comply can lead to legal and financial consequences.
• Employment Contracts: Clear, legally compliant contracts are essential when hiring part-time employees. These contracts should outline job responsibilities, hourly rates, benefits, and expectations to avoid misunderstandings and ensure fair treatment.
• Workplace Regulations: Employers must be mindful of workplace regulations governing part-time employees, such as limits on working hours, health and safety provisions, and the right to unionize. These regulations vary by country and region, so staying informed is crucial for legal compliance.

‍

‍

What Potential Challenges & Hidden Costs Might Arise From Employing Part-Time Workers?

While part-time employment offers flexibility, it also introduces certain challenges that can impact the overall cost-effectiveness and efficiency of your workforce.

• Scheduling Complexities: Coordinating part-time employees can be more challenging than managing full-time staff, especially when employees work irregular hours or have different availability. This may require more time spent on scheduling, adjustments, and ensuring there are no gaps in coverage.
• Reduced Employee Engagement: Part-time workers, especially those working limited hours or in multiple jobs, may feel less engaged and connected to the company. This can lead to lower productivity and morale, impacting the overall performance of the business.
• Increased Turnover Rates: Part-time employees may be more likely to leave or seek other opportunities, as they might view their role as temporary or secondary. High turnover among part-time workers can result in increased recruitment and training costs, as well as a loss of expertise in the organization.

‍

Simplify Part-Time Hiring Worldwide

Managing part-time staff across regions is complex. Playroll handles contracts, payroll, and compliance—so you can focus on growth.

Speak to an Expert

‍

Is Part-Time Employment Right for You?

Part-time employment offers flexibility, allowing employees to create schedules that fit their lifestyle. However, it also has limitations, such as varying benefits and entitlements. Whether part-time work is the right choice depends on your circumstances and priorities.

Understanding your legal rights and options as a part-time employee is essential in making an informed decision. It helps ensure you choose a work-life balance that meets your needs. To clarify any doubts about part-time employment, consult with relevant employment bodies and your employer.

The decision to pursue part-time work is personal, but knowing its nuances will guide you in making a choice that aligns with your goals.

‍

‍

Streamline Part-Time Employment with Playroll

Hiring part-time employees can be simplified by partnering with an Employer of Record (EOR) like Playroll. Playroll handles administrative tasks such as payroll, benefits, and compliance with local labor laws, freeing your business from administrative burdens. By leveraging Playroll’s expertise, you can reduce risks, ensure fairness, and focus on your core operations.