In 2015, the part-time employment rate was similar for scientists and engineers (16%) and for the general U.S. population (18%). The part-time employment rate for scientists and engineers has remained fairly stable in recent years. Nearly one-quarter of female scientists and engineers work part time, compared with 1 in 10 men.
Within each racial and ethnic group of scientists and engineers who are employed part time, women cite family responsibilities as a reason more frequently than men do, whereas among whites and underrepresented minorities, men cite retirement as a reason more frequently than women do. Whites are more likely than members of other racial or ethnic groups to indicate that they work part time because they did not need or want to work more hours.
Reasons for part-time employment among scientists and engineers: 2015
NOTE: Not all reasons are shown; respondents could select more than one reason.
