Performing Work Without Pay

An hourly paid employee cannot perform work without being paid. There are situations that are easily misunderstood regarding hours worked and work schedules which can lead to employees inadvertently performing work without being paid. The following examples are provided for clarity on paying for hours worked. An employee typically must be paid if the employee: 

  • works outside of the normal work schedule; 
  • extends the workday by starting work early, staying late to perform work or working through lunch; 
  • takes work home or prepares materials or other items for work at home; 
  • works during a work-related event on or off site; or 
  • performs special tasks that are related to university activities or programs even if the tasks are not the normally assigned work duties. 

All the examples above and any similar situations that are considered hours worked must be approved in advance by a supervisor.