Catalog of Sample Policies for Pennsylvania's Conservation Districts

Employment Categories
(Westmoreland Conservation District)

It is the intent of the WCD to clarify the definitions of employment classifications so that employees understand their employment status and benefit eligibility. These classifications do not guarantee employment for any specified period of time. Accordingly, the right to terminate the employment relationship at will at any time is retained by both the employee and WCD.

Each employee is designated as either "Exempt" or "Nonexempt" from federal and state wage and hour laws. An employee's Exempt or Nonexempt classification may be changed only upon written notification by WCD management.

In addition to the above categories, each employee will belong to one other employment category:

Regular Full-Time employees are those who are not in a temporary or introductory status and who are regularly scheduled to work WCD's full-time schedule. Generally, they are eligible for WCD's benefit package, subject to the terms, conditions and limitations of each benefit program.

Regular Part-Time employees are those who are not assigned in a temporary or introductory status and who are regularly scheduled to work less than the full-time work schedule, but at least 20 hours per week. Regular part-time employees are eligible for some benefits sponsored by the WCD, subject to the terms, conditions and limitations of each benefit program.

Introductory employees are those whose performance is being evaluated to determine whether further employment in a specific position with WCD is appropriate. Employees who satisfactorily complete the introductory period will be notified of their new employment classification.

Temporary employees are those who are hired as interim replacements or part-time employees generally not working more than 20 hours per week, to temporarily supplement the work force, or assist in the completion of a specific project. Employment assignments in this category are of a limited duration. Employment beyond any initially stated period does not in any way imply a change in employment status. Temporary employees retain that status unless and until notified of a change. While temporary employee receive all legally mandated benefits (such as workers' compensation insurance and Social Security), they are ineligible for all of the WCD's other benefit programs.