Your first part-time job: what to ask before you start

About pay

• What is the pay, per hour, day or month? Is it the same on weekends and public holidays?
• When and how will I be paid: every week, every month, by bank transfer?
• Will I get a payslip? Employers covered by the Employment Act must give itemised payslips.
• Are CPF contributions made? For Singapore Citizens and PRs, CPF generally applies once you earn more than S$50 in a month.

About hours

• Which days and shifts, and who decides the roster?
• How much notice will I get of shift changes, and what if I need to swap?
• Are breaks paid? Is there overtime, and how is it paid?

About the job itself

• What does a normal shift look like, and who will I report to?
• Is there training, and is the training paid?
• Do I need a uniform or equipment, and who pays for it? You should never pay to get a job.

Get it in writing

Employers covered by the Employment Act must give you your key employment terms in writing. Keep a copy, and keep your own record of the hours you work.

The Ministry of Manpower explains your rights as a part-time employee, including leave and working hours, in plain language. If something does not add up, you can ask MOM or the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM) for help.