Q: Is there a difference between URA-AFT Flex Work and the Flex Work @ RU Pilot?
A: Yes. They are two different programs. However, the URA-AFT program follows many of the same process steps found on the Flex Work @RU website. The URA-AFT program was never at risk of ending on August 31st, 2024 and it did not require an extension from Rutgers HR.
Q: What makes the URA-AFT Flex Work program permanent?
A: The University is not legally permitted to take away the URA-AFT program, modify Article 59 or change the negotiable processes relating to the program.
Q: Explain the difference between the program’s continuation and continuing an arrangement according to the process steps.
A: Recent Rutgers HR announcements failed to acknowledge this difference appropriately. Section III.A. of Article 59 requires arrangements to be “revisited and approved on a yearly basis”. It also states that remote work schedules are required to detail “workdays, hours and locations”.
Revisiting your current arrangement does not mean your current arrangement will end automatically and it does not mean you need to reapply. Here are some common examples of what may be involved:
- Your current arrangement is already entered in the MyRutgers portal:
- It already includes the needs assessment, team agreement, your schedule, your workdays and your locations on those days. All the information continues to be accurate and complete. Re-upload all the same information into the portal.
- Your current arrangement is incomplete or inaccurate in the portal. Upload or update the correct information; plus, re-upload any existing information that is unchanged.
- You wish to request a modification around the time of the yearly renewal. You can use this opportunity to request different remote workdays, for example. This may also require the departmental needs assessment and team agreement to be revisited. Upload all relevant changes into the portal and seek approval.
- You have been working a flexible or remote arrangement without it being documented and approved in the portal. In this case, you should apply according to the steps of an initial application and seek approval.
Q: Can I apply if I do not currently have a Flex Work arrangement?
A: Everyone is eligible to apply. You’ll need to apply and receive a decision according to the provisions of Article 59 and Flex Work @RU process steps. Many positions have already been designated as eligible for Remote Work. For positions where the functions are deemed to be performed primarily on campus, Flexible Hours may be requested. Requests for Flexible Work Arrangements “shall not be unreasonably denied” and the process can be grieved under the Article 59 – Flexible Work Arrangements article of our contract.
Q: What if my supervisor wants to end my Flexible Work Arrangements agreement?
A: Any changes to our contractual right to Flexible Work Arrangements must be based on a Department Needs Analysis (FlexWork@RU Department Needs Assessment and Team Agreement (rutgers.edu)). The process is subject to grievance and “requests for flexible work arrangements shall not be unreasonably denied.” Contact union@ura-aft.org if your arrangement is being denied.
Q: Will I have to update my home address?
A: For your own purposes, it would probably be beneficial to have your home address accurate in the Rutgers system. While the program does have a provision for notification of an inspection to make sure a remote worksite is suitable, we have not heard of any actual inspections ever taking place and would investigate any request for such an inspection.
