If you are searching for flexible work, the most convenient option is usually a part time job. But how many hours constitute a part-time work? It depends on labor laws, employer policy, industry practice, and even where you live.
This manual will define a part-time job, its duration, the labor law that governs it, and what you should know before you get one.
What Is a Part-Time Job?
Employers refer to a part time job as one that has fewer hours than a full-time job. While there is no single rule defining it, most organizations classify jobs with fewer than 35–40 hours per week as part-time.
You can usually expect part-time schedules to fall into these ranges:
- Less than 20 hours/week: Entry or flexible jobs
- 20–29 hours/week: Standard part-time employment
- 30–34 hours/week: One level below full-time category
Others still offer benefits if you work consistently 20–25 hours a week, depending on their policy and state laws.
What Labor Laws Say About Part-Time Hours
U.S. federal law does not define part-time work. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) makes provision for hourly wage, overtime, and for the rights of employees, but it does not mention a minimum or maximum number of hours for a part time job.
But other legislation impacts part-time employment:
- The Affordable Care Act (ACA) considers 30+ hours/week full-time for health insurance.
- The states of California and New York place their labor standards for overtime compensation and rest periods on specific industries.
If you have a part time job, your protection and benefit eligibility may change based on the number of hours you work per week and where you work.
How Many Hours Is a Part-Time Job for a Student?
If you are a student, you can potentially get a part time job to gain experience and earn money while being educated. Career counselors and colleges usually recommend 10 to 20 hours of work a week during school semesters.
Common student job types include:
- Campus library or technical support: 10–12 hours/week
- Off-campus retail or restaurant employment: 15–20 hours/week
- Freelance jobs like tutoring or designing: Variable working hours based on projects
International students in the US are required to follow visa regulations, such as the F-1 visa, where work is restricted to 20 hours during term time.
You need to choose a part-time job with a flexible work schedule that you can reconcile with your class schedule.
Why Do Employers Offer Part-Time Jobs?
Employers design part time job positions to:
- Reduced labor costs
- Oversee seasons or high seasons
- Weekend, night, or shift work
- Employ temporary project support staff
- Fill vacancies without necessitating personnel to full-time benefits
You can take advantage of this flexibility if you wish, short-term employment or must supplement your income with a second job.
How Many Hours Do Part-Time Employees Work a Day?
Most of the part-time workers work between 4 to 6 hours daily, but this may vary depending on the job and your availability.
Examples of daily hours:
- Retail salesperson: 5 hours (i.e., 4 PM–9 PM)
- Office assistant: 6 hours (9 AM–3 PM)
- Restaurant workers: 4–5 hours (i.e., 6 PM–10 PM)
Some positions offer only split shifts or weekend shifts. During your interview, ask your employer how they divide daily and minimum hours for the position.
Common Weekly Schedules for Part-Time Jobs
This is the way they typically organize part time job schedules:
Weekly Hours | Who It Suits | Sample Roles |
10–15 hrs | Students, teens | Barista, cashier, pet sitter |
15–25 hrs | Freelancers, parents | Assistant, driver, tutor |
25–30 hrs | Career switchers | Admin staff, delivery worker |
You can have a set or rotating schedule. In gig economy jobs, you typically pick your shifts via an app or website.
Can Part-Time Employees Receive Benefits?
Yes, job benefits are offered by certain employers to part-time workers, although the law does not require them to.
You may qualify for benefits like:
- Health insurance (when you work regularly 20+ hours/week) is
- Paid sick leave or vacation
- Retirement saving plans
Large corporations like Starbucks, Costco, and Trader Joe’s provide benefits to part-time employees after a few hours or months. You should never fail to ask about eligibility when you are applying for a part time job.
Remote Part-Time Jobs: A Growing Trend
Technology has made it possible for many to have remote part time jobs from home. You can get flexible part-time employment in customer service, content writing, virtual assistance, or teaching—usually for 10 to 30 hours a week.
Top websites for remote jobs include:
- Upwork
- FlexJobs
- Fiverr
- Remote.co
Steer clear of scams by applying directly to company websites or via proper job boards.
What is a good part-time job?
A good part time job is one that suits your requirements of stability, flexibility, and income.
Before taking any job, check:
- How many weeks do you work per hour
- Whether the schedule is routine
- If there is space to grow or extra hours
- Whether there are benefits
- How the role aligns with your long-term goals
Whether you are a student or a freelancer, select a job that is less supervised and has flexible working hours. If you wish to obtain a career, search for jobs with career development or training.
How Employers Define Part-Time Hours Internally
Employers prefer to define part-time employment themselves.
For example:
- Amazon defines part-time as 20–29 hours/week
- Walmart considers part-time to be less than 32 hours/week
- Target classifies part-time as under 30 hours/week
When you apply, you should ask the employer what they define as a part time job and whether that means they qualify for benefits.
Part-Time Work and Taxes
When you make money from a part time job, you have to report taxes-even if you work just for a few hours.
Tax tips for part-time workers:
- Keep your pay stubs and deposit slips
- Prepare your file income with tax preparation software or IRS Free File
- Save money if you are self-employed or work a 1099
If you qualify for the earned income tax credit, you may receive a refund even with a lower income. Correctly report income to stay in compliance.
Seasonal Employment: Another Part-Time Option
You may also look for seasonal employment if you want to work part-time seasonally or make some extra income during peak months.
Occupational categories that hire seasonal part-timers:
- Retail (holidays)
- Travel and tourism (summer or winter)
- Agriculture (harvest season)
- On Black Friday or Cyber Monday, online shopping
Seasonal part time job opportunities can translate into full-time jobs if you excel.
FAQs: Quick Answers About Part-Time Jobs
1. How many hours are in a typical part time job?
Most part-time employment is 10 to 30 hours a week.
2. Am I entitled to overtime payment in a part-time position?
Yes. If you work more than 40 hours in a week, you are entitled to federal law overtime pay.
3. Do part-time employees receive lower hourly pay?
Not always. Some off-hours workers receive the same pay as full-time workers doing the same task.
4. If I work 35 hours, am I full-time?
A few would still consider you part-time to avoid “ACA compliance”, so make sure you verify your status.
5. Would it be better to work part-time and study?
Yes. Students prefer to utilize part time jobs to gain experience and make money while having flexible study timetables
Conclusion: Choose a Part-Time Job That Is Suitable to Your Lifestyle
When you choose a part time job, you are choosing according to your schedule, financial objectives, and personal life. You have to always keep weekly hours, benefits, career development, and job suitability in mind with your present life condition. Employers use part-time jobs to manage their employees efficiently, and you can take advantage of it by availing employment that fits your time and goals.
If you are a student, career changer, or part-time worker, there is a “part-time job” that is for you.