The Impact of Alternative Work Schedules on Job Satisfaction in the Federal Sector: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study
Loading...
Authors
Cole, Sandra
Issue Date
2025-12
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
Federal Work Schedules , Business, Engineering, Science, & Technological Innovation
Alternative Title
Abstract
This study explored the impact of alternative work schedules on federal employees, aiming to understand how these arrangements affect employees' experiences and satisfaction within the federal sector. Its primary objective was to evaluate employees' perceptions of alternative work schedules in relation to job satisfaction following the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly with respect to return-to-work initiatives. Specifically, the study examined three key questions concerning alternative work schedule practices and their impact on federal employees' job satisfaction: (1) What alternative work schedule work factors enhance job satisfaction? (2) What alternative work schedule factors lead to employee dissatisfaction? and (3) What alternative work schedule factors influence job satisfaction during the return-to-work phase? Using a qualitative phenomenological approach rooted in H2FT, insights were gathered from 11 government employees in the North Atlantic region. The findings demonstrated the importance of balancing structure and flexibility: employees appreciate the autonomy provided by an alternative work schedule, yet they also expect organizations to establish well-defined objectives and a transparent framework for progress. Although this study's scope is limited due to its focus on participants from a single medium-sized government agency, this focus enabled a detailed exploration of alternative work schedules within that specific context. However, gaining a broader understanding would necessitate examining a wider variety of government departments with diverse missions and structures. Exploring how the cultures of federal agencies influence flexible work schedules provides a basis for future research aimed at developing more equitable alternative work schedule practices across sectors. The findings lay a foundation for further study of job satisfaction in the public sector.