Rest and Meal Breaks

Students must abide by the College's meal break policy that is in compliance with the policies set forth by Bowdoin HR and by the State of Maine.

  • Maine law requires that most employees be given at least a thirty minute unpaid rest break (that may be a meal break) after six hours of work.
  • This unpaid rest break must be recorded in Workday.
  • Students and supervisors are both responsible for requiring and recording meal breaks.
  • In exceptional circumstances, an employee may voluntarily request that this meal break be waived in order to accommodate an alternative schedule. If the supervisor approves, the employee and the supervisor must document the alternative schedule in writing to Student Employment, noting that it is voluntary and may be discontinued by either party at any time. The SEO will provide a Meal Break Waiver Form in situations where this agreement is approved.
  • Breaks or rest periods of no more than 15 minutes, although not required by state law, may be permitted with the supervisor's permission.
  • Unused breaks cannot be accumulated for later use, late arrival or early dismissal, or credited for paid time off.
  • In certain working conditions (e.g., extreme heat or cold), more frequent breaks may be approved.
  • View the Travel Policy for information regarding meal breaks on the road.