2019 industry breakdown: Who’s clocking the most hours and overtime?

Industry trends may help determine which field is best for your lifestyle

Currently, there are more job openings in the U.S. than there are unemployed people. The U.S. Department of Labor’s latest population survey found there are 1.29 jobs available for each unemployed worker (5,824,000 unemployed versus 7,488,000 openings).

In a labor market like this, where employees might have more choices when it comes to work, what’s keeping employees at their jobs, and what’s making them explore other options?

Some of the biggest factors influencing employee satisfaction may be contingent on the time an employee spends at their job—after all, many employees spend most of their day working—whether they prioritize short or long shifts, a flexible schedule, or overtime opportunities. To learn more, we looked at QuickBooks Time data to find trends among industries.¹

Want a flexible schedule? Consider working in one of these fields

For many in the workforce, flexibility is first on their list of work perks. A 2018 survey of small businesses found that a flexible schedule is the top non-traditional perk for many employees. According to an analysis of QuickBooks Time timesheet data recorded over the last six years, less than one-third of the employees are clocking overtime hours in fields where flexible schedules are more prevalent. More work 30 hours or fewer a week—leaving plenty of time to do life.

Workers in these four industries clock the most hours

If you’re looking for long days to keep you busy, you might want to consider a career in one of these industries. Conversely, if you’re looking for more time at home, it’s probably best to avoid these jobs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says more than 80% of each industry works full time, and QuickBooks Time found that about half of each workforce clock overtime.

Working parents might want to work in these fields

For working parents, finding a job with a flexible schedule and part-time hours might be a priority. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) defines part-time workers as anyone who works fewer than 35 hours per week. And QuickBooks Time found that these industries are mostly clocking 30 hours or fewer, with less than one-third clocking overtime. Plus, most of these industries offer various shifts, which is especially helpful if you need to work around a child’s school or daycare schedule. Of course, some industries, especially the restaurant world, don’t pay high wages or offer benefits for part-time employees.

Looking for extra cash? Workers in these industries clock the most overtime

For some employees, money is the ultimate motivator. A 2016 study found that people who work over 50 hours a week make 8% more an hour than those working 35 to 49 hours. So if the green is your goal and you don’t mind spending most of your day clocking hours, here are the industries that really put in the overtime.

Compare average hours worked per week in each industry

Take a look below to see a comprehensive breakdown of hours worked (2018-2019) in all industries analyzed.