A satellite dish installer may be an employee entitled to overtime, rather than an independent contractor the Sixth Circuit ruled today in Keller v. Miri Microsystems. Michael Keller installed satellite dishes for Miri, which treated him as an independent contractor and did not pay him any overtime. The Court ruled that a jury could find that Keller was economically dependent on Miri and was an employee entitled to overtime, rather than merely an independent contractor.
This case emphasizes the factual particulars of the working relationship between Keller and Miri Microsystems. This included a number of factors that, depending on the facts, indicate whether the installer is an employee or an independent contractor. It does not rule that every satellite dish installer is an employee rather than an independent contractor; it does provide a framework for assessing the issue.
Lexington, Kentucky overtime lawyer Robert Abell helps individuals and employees recover the overtime and wages they've earned but not been paid; contact him at 859-254-7076.
