Shift work is common in a variety of job settings, including manufacturing plants and hospitals. While the specific start and end times can vary, a typical first shift runs from approximately 8 a.m. to 4 or 5 p.m., and a typical second shift runs from approximately 4 p.m. to midnight.
Pros and Cons
The first shift aligns more with traditional business and public office schedules. Plus, you can keep a more regular sleep schedule. The second shift allows you to sleep in later and have more time to keep appointments during the day. However, it often leads to more irregular sleep habits, since you may not get to sleep until well after midnight. Some companies pay slightly more for a second shift when it is difficult to find enough workers to staff it.
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