Understanding the Role and Definition of an Administrative Employee

Definition & Meaning

An administrative employee is a worker who is generally exempt from receiving overtime pay under federal law because they earn a minimum salary of $250 per week. Their primary role typically involves significant responsibilities related to the company's policies and operations. Administrative employees are also characterized by their ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment in their work.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A human resources manager who develops company policies and oversees employee relations may be classified as an administrative employee due to their salary and responsibilities.

Example 2: An office manager who makes decisions about office operations and manages budgets could also fall under this classification. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Administrative Employee Classification
California Higher salary threshold for exemption applies.
New York Specific duties must align with state law definitions.
Texas Follows federal guidelines closely.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Administrative Employee Exempt from overtime pay, earns a minimum salary, exercises discretion. Focuses on policy and management duties.
Non-Exempt Employee Entitled to overtime pay for hours worked over 40 in a week. Typically paid hourly and does not meet salary threshold.
Executive Employee Also exempt from overtime, but primarily manages a business or department. Has a higher level of authority and responsibility compared to administrative employees.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe you are classified as an administrative employee, review your job duties and salary against the legal criteria. If you have questions about your classification or rights, consider consulting a legal professional. Additionally, you can explore US Legal Forms for templates related to employment agreements and compliance.

Quick facts

  • Minimum salary: $250 per week.
  • Job duties: Must involve significant responsibility for business operations.
  • Exemption status: Generally exempt from overtime pay.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

To qualify, an employee must earn at least $250 per week and perform duties related to management or business operations.