I was told I'm classified as a non-exempt employee at my new job. What does this classification mean for my pay, overtime eligibility, and work schedule? Are there any protections that come with being non-exempt under labor law?
Being non-exempt means you are protected by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). You must receive at least the minimum wage and overtime pay (1.5x your hourly rate) for any hours worked over 40 per week. Your employer must also maintain accurate records of your hours.
The minimum wage and overtime payments (at time and a half after 40 hours) along with correct recording of the working hours are among the rights that a non-exempt worker can enjoy under the labor law regulations. He or she should be honest about the number of working hours, comply with workplace rules and perform the necessary work.
It basically means you're protected under the FLSA so your employer has to pay you minimum wage plus overtime at 1.5x your rate for anything over 40 hours a week, and they're required to keep accurate records of your hours.