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Many employers in the field of project management have developed clever compensation packages to obscure the true nature of a scheduler’s compensation, often presenting it as a “salary.” However, under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), for a payment to qualify as a bona fide salary, it must bear a reasonable relationship to the total compensation received. This means that the salary should be a significant portion of the employee’s overall pay.
Unfortunately, some employers take advantage of this requirement to circumvent overtime pay obligations. They might offer a seemingly generous “salary” while significantly reducing other forms of compensation, such as hourly wages or overtime pay. This tactic effectively allows them to mask the fact that schedulers are actually working well beyond the standard 40 hours per week, denying them the overtime pay they are legally entitled to.
It’s crucial for schedulers to be vigilant and knowledgeable about their rights under the FLSA. When assessing your compensation package, consider the following factors:
1. Salary-to-Total-Compensation Ratio: A bona fide salary should make up a substantial portion of your total compensation. If your “salary” appears disproportionately low compared to your overall earnings, it may not meet the legal criteria for a bona fide salary.
2. Overtime Hours Worked: Calculate the number of hours you actually work each week. If you regularly exceed 40 hours and are not receiving overtime pay, it may be indicative of an unlawful compensation scheme.
3. Employer’s Intent: The FLSA examines the employer’s intent when assessing compensation packages. If it’s clear that the employer structured the compensation to avoid paying overtime, it could be seen as a violation of the law.
Schedulers should consult with experienced employment attorneys to evaluate the fairness and legality of their compensation packages. These legal professionals can help schedulers understand their rights and guide them through the process of pursuing overtime pay claims if necessary.
Schedulers play a pivotal role in project management, and their compensation should reflect the hard work and dedication they put into their roles. While some employers may attempt to obscure the true nature of compensation with clever packages, schedulers should not be fooled.
Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, the law clearly stipulates that a bona fide salary must have a reasonable relationship with the total compensation received. If your compensation package seems misleading or fails to comply with this requirement, it’s essential to take action to ensure you receive fair compensation for your efforts.
By staying informed about your rights and seeking legal guidance when needed, you can unmask deceptive compensation packages, protect your interests, and assert your entitlement to the overtime pay you deserve as a dedicated scheduler. Remember, your commitment to your work should be rewarded fairly, and the law is on your side.