In today's dynamic work environment, the traditional 9-to-5 is just one of many ways to structure a workday. With the rise of flexible working arrangements, remote work, and diverse industries, there's a growing variety of work schedules that cater to different needs and lifestyles. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to understand the 15 types of work schedules and learn how to manage employee work schedules in Singapore—from understanding the legal framework to implementing best practices that boost morale and productivity.

12 types of work schedule

Every business has its own unique needs, and the traditional nine-to-five schedule isn't always the best fit. For companies requiring 24-hour staffing or needing to address different priorities, implementing shifts is a strategic way to maximise productivity.

Without further ado, here are 12 of the most popular types of work schedules:

1. Standard schedule

A standard schedule involves consistent hours and days, such as working Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM. This predictability is beneficial for those who value routine and helps employers ensure that key tasks are covered during peak business hours. Fixed schedules are often used in industries where consistency is key, such as retail, healthcare, and manufacturing.

For deeper insights into hours of work in Singapore, refer to our “Singapore working hours guide”.

2. Full-time schedule

A full-time schedule is the most common work arrangement, typically involving 40 to 44 hours per week. Full-time employees often enjoy benefits such as paid leave, health insurance, and retirement plans. This schedule provides stability and a clear routine, making it ideal for those who prefer a structured work-life balance.

3. Part-Time Schedule

Part-time work is an excellent option for those who need flexibility, such as students, parents, or individuals pursuing other interests. Part-time schedules usually consist of fewer than 35 hours per week and can vary widely in terms of the number of days and hours worked. While part-time employees may not always receive the same benefits as full-time workers, this arrangement allows for a more adaptable lifestyle.

Explore our “Guide to hiring part-time employees” for in-depth insights!

4. Shift work

Shift work divides the day into shifts, such as morning, afternoon, and night. This is common in industries that require 24/7 coverage, like healthcare, security, and transportation. Shift work can be challenging due to the irregular hours, but it can also offer higher pay rates, especially for night shifts, and the opportunity to work when others are off.

5. Flexible schedule

Flexible schedules offer employees the freedom to choose their working hours within certain limits. For example, an employee may be required to work 8 hours a day but can decide when to start and finish. This type of schedule is popular in roles where the focus is on results rather than hours clocked. It’s ideal for those who thrive on autonomy and need to juggle personal commitments alongside work.

Prepare yourself for the upcoming Flexible Working Arrangement (FWA) policy with our comprehensive guide.

6. Rotating Schedule

In industries that operate around the clock, such as hospitality or healthcare, rotating schedules are common. Employees work different shifts on a rotational basis, for example, switching from a morning shift to an evening shift every few weeks. While this can disrupt personal routines, it also allows workers to experience different times of day, which can be beneficial for avoiding burnout.

7. Compressed schedule

A compressed schedule allows employees to work their required hours over fewer days. For instance, instead of working 8 hours a day for 5 days, an employee might work 10 hours a day for 4 days. This arrangement can offer a better work-life balance by providing longer weekends, though it requires the ability to stay productive over longer workdays.

8. Freelance or gig work

Freelancers and gig workers have the ultimate flexibility, often setting their own hours based on project deadlines. This type of work is ideal for those who prefer variety and independence, as it allows individuals to choose the projects they work on and the clients they work with. However, it also comes with challenges, such as the need for self-discipline and the lack of traditional employee benefits.

Find the useful tips for managing your freelancers in our “Ultimate Guide to Hiring Freelancers.”.

9. Remote work schedule

With the rise of digital technology, remote work has become increasingly popular. Remote workers can perform their duties from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing for unparalleled flexibility. This type of schedule is ideal for those who value freedom and work-life integration, though it requires strong communication skills and the ability to stay motivated without direct supervision.

10. Alternative schedule

An alternative schedule is when an employee has a different work arrangement than others in the same role at the same company. This could mean working fewer hours, on different days, or during different shifts than most colleagues. Such a schedule is often considered when an employee has unique needs, such as medical requirements or pregnancy. Typically, alternative schedules are temporary, with the expectation that the employee will return to a more traditional schedule once circumstances change.

11. Seasonal schedule

Seasonal work is a perfect fit for those who are only available for a few months each year. This type of schedule is especially popular among students, as it allows them to earn money during breaks while focusing on their studies during the academic year. Seasonal work is commonly available during holidays, like November through December, or in the summer months, from June to August. It offers flexibility and the chance to gain experience without committing to year-round employment.

12. On-call schedule

On-call schedules require employees to be available to work as needed, often with little notice. While this arrangement can be unpredictable, many on-call staff receive compensation beyond their work hours to account for the lack of guaranteed time off. This type of schedule is frequently used in industries that deal with emergencies or non-predictable scenarios, such as healthcare. For instance, doctors might be on call one day a month to handle emergencies. Typically, on-call responsibilities are rotated among employees to ensure fairness.

Work schedule FAQs

Is a lunch break included in an employee's work schedule?

Working schedules typically refer to the period designated for employees to carry out their assigned duties, excluding intervals allowed for rest, tea breaks, and meals.

However, it's crucial to strike a balance: Employees are generally advised not to work for more than 6 consecutive hours without a break. Exceptions exist for tasks requiring an 8-hour stretch, where meal breaks of at least 45 minutes are crucial. This approach aims to optimise productivity while ensuring employees have sufficient breaks to recharge and refuel.

How to calculate hourly pay for part-time employees?

If you have a part-time employee paid by the month, you can calculate their hourly and daily basic rates of pay as follows:

Example 1:

Josh is a part-time employee who earns a monthly basic rate of $1,500 and is required to work 20 hours per week. To calculate their hourly basic rate of pay:

Hourly basic rate of pay = (12 x $1500) / (52 x 20) = $18000 / 1040 = $17.31 per hour

Example 2:

Cassie is a part-time employee with a monthly basic rate of $2000 and is expected to work 3 days a week. To find their daily basic rate of pay:

Daily basic rate of pay = (12 x $2000) / (52 x 3) = $24000 / 156 = $153.85 per day

Tip: As an employer, hiring part-time employees can be a smart move for any business looking to improve efficiency and manage costs. Head over to our guide to hiring part-time employees in Singapore to learn more about how to manage your part-time employees!

How do rest days work in Singapore?

Employers must allocate one unpaid rest day per week, covering a full day from midnight to midnight within a seven-day period, typically from Monday to Sunday.

For shift workers, this rest period can extend for 30 consecutive hours, starting before 6pm on Sunday and continuing into Monday, considered one rest day.

Employers can decide the rest day, either Sunday or another day, and must provide advance notice of monthly rest day schedules to employees. 

Mandating work on a rest day is only permissible in exceptional circumstances. 

Tip: Head over to our comprehensive rest day guide for employers in Singapore to learn more about managing rest days for your employees to ensure they are well-rested.

How to calculate my employee’s pay if he or she works on a rest day?

The rest day pay is calculated as follows:

Tip: When calculating your employee's pay for working on a rest day, ensure that you comply with the regulations set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore. Our rest day guide for employers in Singapore provides detailed information and calculations to help you accurately determine your employee's entitlements and avoid any compliance issues.

What is the maximum number of overtime hours?

The maximum overtime limit is 72 hours per month. However, work on rest days or public holidays doesn't count towards the 72-hour limit, except for additional hours beyond regular daily working hours on those days, which are included in the limit.

For companies that want to be exempted from the maximum hours of overtime stipulated in the Employment Act, they must apply for overtime exemption at MOM’s website.

How to calculate overtime pay?

Overtime pay = Hourly basic rate of pay × 1.5 × number of hours worked overtime

The hourly basic rate of pay is calculated as follows:

Tip: Discover everything you need to know about overtime pay regulations in Singapore and streamline your overtime management process with our overtime pay guide for employers in Singapore. Reduce the risk of errors in overtime payments and try out our overtime pay calculator for compliance matters! 

Manage different employee work schedules seamlessly and run payroll automatically with Payboy HR & Payroll Software!

Handling diverse employee schedules can be time-consuming and error-prone when using manual trackers. Payboy's Shift Scheduling and Time Attendance module simplifies this process, allowing employers to assign shifts, track attendance, and ensure HR compliance efficiently.

Plus, these modules integrate seamlessly with the Payroll Processing module, guaranteeing accurate and efficient payroll calculations. Say goodbye to manual data entry and reduce errors with automated workflows.

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