When a job is listed as non-exempt, it means the employee is entitled to overtime pay and other protections under the Fair Labor Standards Act, which is a federal law that governs employment practices. Non-exempt employees are typically paid hourly and must receive at least one and a half times their regular pay for any hours worked over 40 in a week. This is different from exempt positions, which are often salaried and don't qualify for overtime pay, regardless of the number of hours worked. For employees, non-exempt positions can be better because they provide a clear understanding of pay and hours, and the potential for extra earnings with overtime.