What should be included in an employment contract?

An employment contract is a written agreement between an employer and an employee that outlines the terms and conditions of the employee’s employment. No specific language is required to create an enforceable contract in Washington, however, there are certain provisions that should be included. First, the contract should state the duration of the employment agreement, including the date of hire and the date the employee’s employment will end. If the employment is of an indefinite duration, the contract should state whether or not either party can terminate the agreement and if so, under what conditions. The contract should also state whether or not the employee is exempt or non-exempt from overtime and other wage and hour regulations. Additionally, state and federal labor laws require that employers include language detailing any required deductions, such as taxes and insurance premiums, and any additional benefits, such as vacation and sick pay, that may be provided to the employee. The contract should also outline any workplace policies that the employee must follow. This can include policies related to attendance, workplace safety, and workplace conduct. Finally, the contract should include a non-disclosure agreement or a non-compete agreement that will protect the employer’s proprietary and confidential information. This is especially important if the employee will be dealing with sensitive or confidential information. A well-crafted employment contract should provide a clear understanding of the rights and responsibilities of both employer and employee. This will ensure that the employer and employee both understand the terms of the agreement and that the employers’ rights are protected.

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