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Posted Feb 10th, 2012
Can I be disciplined at work, for being unable to show up for a mandatory meeting due to a secondary
job and a scheduling conflict?

Additional Details:
I''ve worked my main job (Job 1) since 06/11 to the present. Never had any issues, everything is
for the most party dandy there. Never late, never call out sick, perform my job duties to an
expected level or above. Job 2, i''ve taken since 11/11, as a secondary job to help further my
career of choice, and gain the time in the company to place on experience. Job 1 was informed of my
work schedule, and while it doesn''t usually conflict with job 2, if any issues do arise, I inform
job 1 of the conflict. IE, job 1 schedules a meeting at 7am in the morning on a saturday. Job 2 my
work schedule is 12am to 9am on saturday morning. I inform job 1 that I am unable to make the
mandatory meeting. Job 1 informs me that this is my main job, and if I dont show up, I''ll be given
disciplinary action. I compromise with job 1, and state that I may be able to see if someone can
relieve me early from job 2, but if not, I''m unavailable for the meeting.
Legal Topic Area: Labor and Employment in TX

Generally, any employer has the right to expect employees be at work, on time, when scheduled. It was a mandatory meeting, and you did not attend. While it is truly admirable that you work 2 jobs, the fact you missed a mandatory meeting for your Job 1 employer creates a problem for that company. Since you missed the meeting, you may be subject to disciplinary action.


Answered on Feb 13th, 2012 at 1:22pm