Essential job functions are the core duties that are fundamental to a specific job position. These functions are critical for the role and are typically outlined in a job description created by the employer before they begin the hiring process. Understanding these functions is important for both employers and employees, especially in relation to workplace accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
The term "essential job functions" is often used in employment law, particularly in cases involving the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It helps determine whether an employee can perform their job with or without reasonable accommodations. Legal professionals may encounter this term in civil rights cases, employment disputes, and when drafting job descriptions or policies that comply with disability regulations.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
For instance, in a case involving a warehouse worker, the essential job functions may include lifting heavy boxes and operating machinery. If an employee requires accommodations, such as modified lifting techniques, the employer must evaluate whether these accommodations allow the employee to perform the essential functions effectively (hypothetical example).
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is the primary law governing essential job functions. It mandates that employers provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities, as long as it does not cause undue hardship to the employer. Relevant case law includes Nawrot v. CPC International, which discusses the balance between essential functions and the need for accommodations.
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Marginal Job Functions | Tasks that are not essential to the job but may still be part of the role. | Marginal functions are not critical for the position and may be performed by others. |
| Reasonable Accommodation | Adjustments made to enable an employee with a disability to perform essential job functions. | Reasonable accommodations relate to how essential functions are performed, not the functions themselves. |
If you believe that essential job functions may impact your employment situation, consider the following steps:
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They are the fundamental duties that are critical for a specific job position.