Flexible Work Arrangements

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Murray State University
POLICY NUMBER: III L
SUBJECT: FLEXIBLE WORK ARRANGEMENTS
APPLIES TO: STAFF
EFFECTIVE DATE: January 1, 2024

FLEXIBLE WORK ARRANGEMENTS

The flexible work arrangements policy allows for workplace flexibility while still meeting the needs, interests and mission of Murray State University (MSU) as required by Kentucky Revised Statue. The University’s operational needs are consistent with its status as a traditional, residential, comprehensive university. 

Regular full-time and part-time staff positions may be eligible for consideration for flexible work arrangements.

This policy does not apply to incidental or brief time periods that are best managed through the use of leave or other arrangements with the employee’s supervisor.

Flexible work arrangements are not feasible within some departments or for certain positions within a department. Positions that are ineligible for flexible work arrangements include but are not limited to dispatch and police operations, central plant and facilities management, farm operations, parking enforcement, post office, student financial services, student recruitment and retention, the wellness center, among others, in order that expected services and student engagement are at the forefront of operations and the delivery of services. Student facing positions, especially, require careful review and evaluation.

Flexible work arrangements that cause a department to incur overtime will not be approved. This policy does not allow for altering the regular full-time definition of a workweek from either 37.5 or 40 hours per week.

The University may establish new or open positions in which a flexible work arrangement is available. For positions designated for flexible work, the job posting will describe the flexible work arrangement available and include a statement that the ability to work effectively and efficiently is a qualification of the position. Flexible work arrangements must comply with applicable local, state and federal laws, including the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Flexible work arrangements refer to flexible work schedules during a 37.5 or 40 hour workweek which permit variable daily starting and ending times. Flexible scheduling options include:

• Fixed starting and ending times that vary from the standard unit operating hours;

• Variations in workday length but maintaining the same hours per week requirement.

• The University’s workweek is Saturday through Friday.

There may be situations where there is a mutual agreement between a supervisor and staff that some component(s) of a staff's work may be performed at home for a specified number of hours per week. These situations will be managed and approved on an individual basis.

Flexible work arrangements are not designed for, or intended to be used as, a substitute for in-home or other types of dependent care.

1. Requesting Flexible Work Arrangements

   1. Flexible work arrangements may be considered after six (6) consecutive months of service have been completed in the position intended to be covered by a flexible work arrangement, unless otherwise recommended by the supervisor and administrative head of the department. The requirement is waived if a new or open position is designated for flexible work.

   2. Requests for positions to have a flexible work arrangement must be submitted by the supervisor and recommended by the administrative head, dean/director and the Vice President or President. Final approval is granted by Human Resources.

   3. Requests for flexible work arrangements will have a set period of time of one year. The agreement may be reviewed and re-defined as needed, if it is to be continued for an additional period of time.

   4. Participation in flexible work arrangements is not an entitlement, and the request will be approved or denied based upon the needs of the department and/or University.

2. Flexible Work Arrangements Outside of Kentucky

   An additional review of flexible work arrangements by Human Resources and other required departments is needed for work locations outside of Kentucky and may not be approved. Flexible work arrangements outside of the United States will not be approved.

3. Workers’ Compensation

   Work-related injuries are subject to workers’ compensation at the primary work location or a flexible work arrangement that is considered an extension of the primary work location.

Flexible Work Arrangement Form