What exactly is an "on-call" job?

Question

I recently got a job at Macy's.
My manager said she did not have any part-time schedule available for the kind of hours I wanted, so she offered me an on-call job and I took that.

My manager told me that since its the holidays, there are always open hours to work- so it would be like working part-time.

Since its on-call, does that mean I will never know when I will work? How much time in advance will I know when they want me to come in?

Answer 1

You will be called when they need you. They should give you at least an hour and a half or two before starting the shift. However sometimes, they will give you more advance warning. "On Call" is tricky...usually used when people call in sick and you have to be called in to cover their shifts, or in the case of retail stores...its used when they need to clear a big stock or they're expecting a larger then usual shipment to distribute before a big holiday. Either way, its like what it is..you are called when they need you!.

Answer 2

It means you are available 24/7...Generally, unless you are a complete workaholic who loves working better than relaxing at home, its not a good situation to be in...Basically, you work whenever THEY want you to...not whenever you feel like it...You won't have any say in the matter, so unless its a great job with a huge paycheck, maybe you should rethink Macy's...

They'll give you a day or 2 notice that you have to work a particular day...

Answer 3

"on-call" means they will call you to work if they need, such as this seasonal period (from Nov. to Dec.). In fact you can discuss with your Manager and set-up your schedule in advanced, it's better than wait for their call 24 hours 7 days. However they don't provide any benefits to "on-call" employees, such as paid holidays, 401k, insurance .. etc.