Part-time

What is part-time?

In the case of part-time work, an employee regularly works shorter hours than a full-time employee. Part-time work occurs when an employee regularly works fewer hours per week than a comparable full-time employee in the same organization. Fixed working hours are usually agreed, but these do not ultimately make up the full working hours. It is also possible to work at a reduced hourly rate on all working days or only on certain working days to the extent of a normal working time relationship.

A distinction is made between near-full-time and far-full-time part-time work. Although there is no uniform distinction, the term “near-full-time part-time” is often used for working an average of 30 hours or more per week.

What does classic part-time work look like?

The classic part-time model is that the daily working hours are reduced. This form of part-time work is very easy and quick for the employer to implement.

The working days per week are 5 days on which, for example, 6 or 4 hours are worked instead of 8 hours. The positive thing about this is that the employee has more free time each day.

Part-time can also mean that you work 6 hours a day, 5 hours 3 days a week and have weekends on 3 days. There are many variations of part-time models.

What remuneration applies to part-time work?

However, it should be noted that if you want to work part-time, you will earn less. The hourly wage usually remains the same as in the full-time position. However, as the number of hours is reduced, the salary is correspondingly lower.

How must the employer be informed?

If an employee wishes to switch from full-time to part-time, they must notify their employer 3 months in advance. The employee should inform the employer how many hours they would like to work in the future. If the employment relationship has existed for more than 6 months and the company has at least 15 employees (excluding trainees), the employer may grant the request.

The employer must agree or disagree to the request at least one month before the desired start of part-time work. The agreement or refusal must be made in writing.

What is partial retirement?

Partial retirement is also part-time employment. This is regulated by the associated Partial Retirement Act.

In general, there is no legal entitlement to this. It is therefore only possible on the basis of a voluntary agreement between the employer and employee.

Partial retirement is possible from the age of 55. The prerequisite for this is that the employee has been employed full-time or part-time for at least 1,080 calendar days, subject to social security contributions.

In addition, the periods of entitlement to unemployment benefit I and II must also be taken into account. It is also important to note that partial retirement must last at least until the date from which the old-age pension can be claimed.

What are the advantages of part-time work?

1. flexibility for employees:
Part-time employment offers flexible working hours that allow employees to better adapt their professional commitments to their individual needs. This is particularly beneficial for parents, students or people who have extra-occupational commitments.

2. improved work-life balance:
Part-time employment helps to improve the balance between work and private life. Reduced working hours allow employees to spend more time on their personal interests, family and leisure activities, which can lead to a more satisfying quality of life overall.

3. entry-level opportunity for career starters:
Part-time jobs often offer an ideal entry-level opportunity for career starters or people who want to return to work after a longer break. This enables a gradual adjustment to the world of work without neglecting personal needs.

4. diverse industries and professions:
The option for part-time work extends across various industries and professions. Many companies recognize the added value of flexible working models and offer part-time positions in different areas so that employees have the opportunity to work in their preferred industry.

5. companies also benefit:
Not only employees benefit from part-time employment, but also companies. Flexible working hours allow companies to respond to changing work requirements and build a more diverse, satisfied team.

Overall, part-time employment is more than just a reduction in working hours. It is a lifestyle-friendly way of working that offers numerous benefits to both employees and companies. Discover the possibilities of part-time work and find the ideal work-life balance.