Employee

An employee is a person who performs work for an employer under an agreement of employment, contract of service, or similar arrangement, and is typically subject to the employer's control and direction. In exchange for wages or a salary, the employee provides labor and expertise as part of the employer's business operations. The relationship is usually formalized through a payroll arrangement, with tax withholding and social contributions handled by the employer or the state, depending on jurisdiction.

Employees are distinguished from independent contractors by factors such as ongoing obligation to perform, integration into the employer’s organization, and entitlement to certain protections and benefits. They are covered by labor and employment laws that govern minimum wage, working hours, overtime, health and safety, discrimination, and leave entitlements. Benefits may include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid holidays, depending on law and policy.

Common types of employment include full-time, part-time, temporary, casual, and fixed-term contracts. The rights to overtime, paid leave, and eligibility for benefits generally increase with duration and status, but vary by jurisdiction and agreement. Some jurisdictions recognize employee rights differently when classification changes.

Employees have duties to perform assigned tasks, follow lawful instructions, respect confidential information, comply with workplace policies, and protect company property. They are expected to maintain professional conduct, safety, and quality standards, and to participate in performance reviews and training.

The employee life cycle typically begins with recruitment and onboarding, followed by ongoing performance management, potential advancement, and eventually resignation, retirement, or termination. Termination can be voluntary or involuntary and may involve notice periods, severance, or redundancy procedures mandated by law or contract.