University of Massachusetts Amherst
Tier2-6: Telecommuting

The University recognizes that in order to attract, retain, and develop highly skilled employees and partner with the Union on promoting a clean environment, there may be times when it is in the best interest of both the University and the employee to consider options beyond traditional work locations and schedules. This flexibility must always meet the needs of the individual campus business units. The University’s commitment to this flexibility does not mean that every employee is entitled to a flexible work option. The nature of the work and/or the needs of the University may preclude a flexible work arrangement. Flexibility is appropriate where both the needs of the University and the needs of the employee are met. Upon request of a bargaining unit member, the supervisor may grant, for a specific period of time, or for an unspecified time (subject to a cancellation by the supervisor) a flexible personal work schedule, a compressed work week, or an alternative work site/telecommuting schedule, so long as the bargaining unit member can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the supervisor that the proposed schedule will not interfere with or detract from the delivery of services provided or the day to day operation of the department. Such request shall not be unreasonably denied.

Section 18.4 of the PSUMTA contract: PSU UMA&UMB (7/1/09 – 6/30/12) 49