EPFL implements a modern approach to working time and absence management, based on flexibility, trust, and accountability. An integrated digital system allows each staff member to manage their schedules, absences, and leave independently and transparently.
Working Time
- Standard Weekly Hours: 41 hours
- Flexibility: Working hours may vary according to individual and service needs, without prior notice, as long as the weekly total is respected
- Time Entry:
- Mandatory no later than the end of the following month
- If no entry is made, the contractual schedule is considered fulfilled
- Alternating Schedules: Possible for part-time work or variable attendance, and must be recorded in the system
Additional and Overtime Hours
- Additional Hours:
- Up to 4 hours allowed per week
- Must be declared weekly
- Overtime Hours:
- More than 45 hours per week
- Must be authorized in advance by the unit manager
- Validated through an automated workflow
- Compensatory Time Off:
- Must be scheduled in the system
- Subject to approval
Informations and Services
- Holidays and Public holidays provisions for 2025 (PDF)
- Regulations on Working Time Management (RGT) [LEX 4.1.4] (PDF)
- Directive on Terms of Employment of EPFL Assistants [LEX 4.4.1] (PDF) – See article 5 regarding the PhD students’ holiday leave
- Online Help Absence Management
- SESAME: Administrative management platform for working hours and leave
- CHRONOS: For tracking hours related to research
- Knowledge Base (Service Now support portal, in French)
Vacation and Absences
Taking time off is key to staying balanced! At EPFL, every staff member is encouraged to regularly plan their holidays, which are tailored to their age and work rate. What are the rules to follow, which public holidays are official, and what should you do in case of illness or accident?
Teleworking
EPFL encourages remote work as part of a commitment to flexibility, sustainability, and mutual trust. It enables better work-life balance while maintaining work quality and team collaboration.
Secondment
At EPFL, secondment allows researchers and other staff categories to carry out temporary assignments abroad while retaining their employment status. This arrangement promotes international collaboration and enhances the institution’s scientific visibility.
Special Leave
EPFL grants various types of special leave to allow staff members to manage important personal or family events. These leaves are paid and must be taken in direct connection with the event concerned.
Leave for the Other Parent
In the event of a birth, EPFL grants 20 fully paid working days of leave to the other parent, in accordance with the Ordinance on EPF Personnel. This leave applies to the father of the child, the wife of the mother considered the other parent, as well as to adoptive fathers.
Unpaid Leave
Unpaid leave allows EPFL staff members to take temporary time off without remuneration, under certain conditions. Impacts on accident insurance, pension contributions, and vacation entitlements must be taken into account.
Contact
For any questions regarding working hours and absences, please write to: