What Should I Request From Management Before Starting On-Call?

You should definitely ask for a dedicated work phone if they plan on using it for security purposes. Also, make sure to get compensated for your time. It could be beneficial to have it in writing that you will earn comp time for any late-night issues, so you’re not expected to start your regular hours after being up all night fixing problems.

Comp time is essential, and if you can swing it, extra pay is even better. If you find it too overwhelming, maybe suggest a dedicated person for the after-hours shift. Honestly, I would consider looking for a new job if it becomes too much; on-call can be a real headache.

Ask for reasonable time off for any holidays you’re on-call, just in case you’re paged. Additionally, you should request comp time for any hours you spend dealing with issues. Even if they don’t offer extra pay, you can ask for a stipend to cover your cell phone expenses.

Make sure they outline how on-call will be structured and what your responsibilities will be. It’s important to establish clear expectations early on to avoid any misunderstandings later. If they can't commit to fair compensation, seriously consider if this is the right place for you.

It's crucial to have a clear on-call policy that both you and the management sign off on. This should include compensation for after-hours work and a rotation schedule. If they expect you to be accessible during your off-hours, you deserve to have those terms laid out clearly.