2. Telecommuting and Remote Worksite Information
Office of Human Resources and Payroll

3. Agenda Purpose of Telecommuting or Remote Worksite
Definition of Telecommuting and Remote Worksite
Application Steps
Criteria of Appropriate Employee
Supervisor Requirements
Employee Requirements
Questions

4. Purpose
When the need presents itself, North Dakota State University may allow flexibility in a location where work is performed by NDSU.
Telecommuting or Remote Worksite is for the benefit of the institution. Sometimes it is necessary to meet university goals and/or meet customer needs. The decision to allow Telecommuting or a Remote Worksite is at the discretion of the supervisor (after thoroughly considering the needs of the job, work group, department and the employee’s past and present performance) with the approval from the respective division’s Vice President and/or the Provost.
It should be used on a pre-scheduled basis.

5. Definitions
Telecommuting is for an employee who is located on an NDSU worksite but works at an alternate worksite on a regular bases on specified days/times. This does not apply to occasional work from non-NDSU property.
Remote Worksite is for an employee who works out of the state of North Dakota for an extended period of time. “Extended period” means for longer than 30 consecutive days. It does not apply to occasional work from non-NDSU property or out-stationed permanent worksites designated by NDSU.

6. Application Steps
Supervisor/Employee consult to determine if this is a viable option for the duties of the position and department.
Employee and Supervisor complete the NDSU Telecommuting or Remote Worksite Request form, whichever is applicable.
Form is forwarded for:
Approval of appropriate Chair/Dean/Director
Review and comments by Office of HR and Payroll
Approval of appropriate Vice President or Provost
If approved, Telecommuting/Remote Worksite Agreement is completed and signed.
The Request form and Agreement must all be fully signed before employee can begin the telecommuting or remote worksite assignment.
Submit original to Office of HR and Payroll for employee’s official personnel file and copy to University Police & Safety for workers compensation processing.
Supervisor will send any state-required information to the employee.

7. Criteria for Appropriate Employee
Current documented consistent and acceptable level of productivity and quality.
Demonstrates a thorough and productive understanding of their job.
Demonstrates ability to work independently with minimal levels of supervision.
Position duties are not location-specific (e.g., receptionist, customer service rep).
Work space is free from distractions.
Employees who have caretaking responsibilities and will be working from home must have viable caretaking arrangements. Telecommuting is NOT a substitute for those arrangements.

8. Supervisor’s Requirements
Orient the employee:
Clearly defined expectations
Work schedule
Check-in expectations/contact method
Ensure state and federal laws are followed
Keep telecommuters informed, integrated and able to collaborate with onsite employees and management.
Review employee’s performance on a regular basis.
Ensure Agreement is reviewed, updated, and renewed annually.

9. NDSU Employee Requirements
Requirement of on-campus office attendance when needed.
Understanding of NDSU policies, i.e. if non- exempt Policy 212.
Meeting the requirements of the position.
Staying in contact with supervisor.
Maintaining structured hours.

10. For Questions, colette.erickson@ndsu.edu