I work for a defense contractor, and as such hand been sent to work remotely on several occasions. Due to a management shortage I was asked to work a duty manager position for several areas. I accepted, with the understanding that I would work from home during this time. My request was approved by management, my computer was given the access needed to work remotely (access company network through private Wi-Fi), and I went home and set up a table in my den.
I covered multiple shifts, making phone calls both morning and night. I was also on call 24/7 during this time. I charged 12 hours per day, the standard shift for an overlap and multi shift schedule. I have been back at work for several months and found out HR had opened an investigation into me. I was told that I was to only be paid for the time I was actively typing on my computer, or actively on the phone.
A formal complaint was filed by an employee against me because they were angry at the charging, unaware there was overtime involved in the job I volunteered for. Thankfully my logs are very thorough, so I was able to prove my productivity. However there are 44 hours I charged, which I was not “actively engaged”. HR concluded that my actions were not malicious, nor intentionally deceptive, however I am told I am still being reprimanded.
I was told my paycheck will be docked until the money is returned, I will receive a written final warning (any issue and it's termination), and this happened late enough in the year that my annual review will reflect this impacting my raise next year. I spoke with an attorney, our state has arbitration laws, however the attorney fees to fight this will be more than the money I'll save. I did everything that was asked of me, and more, and was met with this. F- big business.