Yes, we all know they're out there, and in far greater numbers than there should be. They do stupid things in order to save a buck, usually to the detriment of the employees.
I worked for this manufacturing company, running a laser, for 9 months and was doing great. I had almost full autonomy, side from material (inventory) and design issues that came around daily. Somewhat flexible schedule that I never really needed, but was nice to have if I did.
Well they let me go on dramatic fashion after those 9 months, mysteriously DAYS before I was set to be gone for 2 weeks of planned vacation. I had the PTO. They brought me into a small meeting room on the same level as the machines, set a paper on the table, and told me that I was no longer employed there, effective immediately and escorted out after gathering my things. Pay was automatically taken care of via ADP, at least I didn't have to chase that..
My vacation disappeared tho.
I'm not broke, since I've been maneuvering for the last 5 years ago that I'm not dependent on “the man” (for this reason!). So we went on our vacation and had a good time. Came back and found a job. Total time of unemployment was about 6 weeks.
After I got paid for 2 weeks, the ex employer decided to fight my right to collect and stalled 3 weeks. UI sent me a few questions to answer, and after reviewing our case, just sent me all of my back pay from requested weeks.
I'm count that as a huge victory. NOW, I'll be going after my 2 weeks of vacation time.