What is Seasonal Employment?
Seasonal employment refers to temporary work that organizations offer to meet their temporary staffing needs at certain times of the year. Most seasonal jobs are part-time, but some full-time positions may also be available. Depending on the employer, location, and time of year, a seasonal job may last for several months, or only a few weeks. However, it does not involve year-round positions.
Applying for Seasonal Work? What You Need to Know
Seasonal employment benefits employers by helping them to efficiently manage their staffing needs. During slow periods, they don’t need to keep seasonal workers on the payroll. Since most of these employees are part-time workers, they usually receive fewer benefits, thereby reducing labor costs. During the vacation and summer months, seasonal workers can fill in for absent employees and keep the organization running smoothly.
Seasonal employment provides a lifeline for unemployed individuals or those looking to supplement their income from a second job. Additionally, it can be a stepping stone to a permanent job for workers. It’s a chance to gain valuable experience and prove your worth. Many businesses screen their seasonal candidates to discover promising candidates for permanent job openings.
Seasonal Employment Laws to Keep in Mind
Federal laws establish minimum wage, recordkeeping, overtime pay, and youth employment standards for seasonal employment. Employers must pay seasonal employees either the federal or the state (or local if it applies) minimum wage, whichever is higher. Seasonal employees are eligible for overtime pay at a rate of one and a half times their regular pay rate for any extra hours worked beyond the standard 40 hours worked per week.
Federal laws regulate child labor in seasonal employment. Children aged 14 and 15 can only work for a certain number of hours permitted in authorized occupations. After they turn 16, there are no federal limits on the hours worked per week. However, those who are 16 to 17 years old should avoid working in occupations that the Secretary of Labor has classified as dangerous.
Seasonal employees receive the same tax withholding treatment as other employees. If you’re an employer seeking information on your tax responsibilities, you can refer to the IRS’s page on businesses with employees. Also, because state and local labor and tax regulations vary widely, it is vital to verify with the appropriate agencies in your region.
In conclusion, seasonal employment is a useful tool for both businesses and employees. Companies save on expenses, and seasonal employees obtain valuable experience and earn extra cash. It can be a stepping stone for long-term employment, and by following federal laws and regulations, businesses can mitigate risk and ensure compliance.
