A Colorado employment contract outlines the terms and conditions of employment between an employer and an employee in Colorado. Using an employment contract ensures both parties are aware of their obligations, such as job responsibilities, compensation, and paydays. An employment contract can protect an employee from wrongful termination while protecting the employer’s confidential information from being wrongfully disclosed. Below, you can learn about Colorado state laws that you should know before writing a Colorado employment contract.
Employment Contracts: What to Consider as an Employer in Colorado
From the minimum wage laws to payday requirements, you need to be aware of the below laws and requirements in Colorado before creating an employment contract.
At-Will
In Colorado, at-will employment is allowed, but there is the exception of any public policy and implied contract understandings.
Minimum Wage Laws in Colorado
Basic Minimum Rate (per hour): $13.65
Premium Pay After Designated Hours: Daily – 12, Weekly – 40
Tipped Employee Minimum Wage: $10.63
Employment/Age Certification in Colorado
For minors under 16 during school hours, employment certificates are required in Colorado. Minors must acquire the certificate through their school and present it to their employer to verify their ability to work before being hired.
Although age certification is not required in Colorado, an age certificate is required by law to be provided on request for minors under 18. However, they will not be issued to minors under 16 during school hours. Minors fourteen or fifteen years of age will need a school release permit if they wish to work on school days during school hours.
Payday Requirements in Colorado
In Colorado, employers are required to pay employees all wages or compensation due within no period greater than one calendar month. Unless, by mutual agreement, the employer and employee determine alternative periods of wage and salary payments.
Minimum Periods for Breaks and Meals in Colorado
Minimum paid rest periods are required in Colorado. A paid 10-minute rest period for every four hours of work, or major fractions thereof, is required. Where practicable, the rest period should fall in the middle of the work period.
Meal periods are also required in Colorado. Employees must have half an hour meal period if the work shift exceeds five consecutive hours. On-duty meal periods are counted as time worked and permitted when the nature of work prevents relief from all duties.
Colorado Employment Contract Sample
Start creating your Colorado employment contract by using a template to ensure you include all of the important information. Download below in PDF or Word format.
