Who controls an employee's schedule and duties?

• A. The independent contractor
• B. The employer
• C. The employee themselves
• D. The regulatory board

Answer: (B)

In employment relationships, control over how and when work gets done is determined by who directs the work. The party that assigns tasks, sets work hours, and dictates the methods for completing duties exercises the employer’s control. The employee is expected to follow those directions, adhere to the schedule, and perform the duties as described in the job role and company policies. An independent contractor usually has more autonomy over when and how they work, within the terms of their contract, so they control their own schedule and approach. A regulatory board governs standards and licensing, not the day-to-day assignment of duties. Therefore, the one who controls an employee’s schedule and duties is the employer.