Understanding California Wage Orders

Get ready to master the intricacies of California Wage Orders in this self-paced, comprehensive course. We begin with the surprising origins of these regulations—dating back to 1913—when California first recognized the need to balance operational efficiency with protecting workers’ rights. You’ll uncover how wage orders have evolved over the past century, why there are 17 distinct orders, and how they’re structured into industry and occupational categories. From manufacturing to professional services, you’ll learn exactly what each order governs, the unique nuances involved, and how to spot the difference between Industry versus Occupation in real-world workplaces.

Building on that foundation, we’ll walk you step by step through determining which wage order applies to your company (or multiple entities if you have them!). Using concrete examples—from secretaries in a manufacturing plant to a lawyer’s office—you’ll see how the same job title can fall under entirely different wage orders. We’ll also delve into the essentials of compliance and provide actionable strategies for conducting audits, posting the correct orders, and understanding the penalties for violations. By the end of the course, you’ll not only know where to look for resources like DLSE Opinion Letters and Interpretations Manuals, but you’ll have the confidence to apply (and even explain) these rules across a variety of business scenarios. This is your guidebook to ensuring wage and hour compliance in the Golden State!

NOTE: The information provided in this course should only be used as a guide. Always consult an attorney when making decisions based on the topics discussed in this course.