Remote Work Policy

Purpose and scope

This policy sets expectations for where and how work is performed, how we stay aligned across time zones, and how we protect client data and company systems in a distributed environment.

It does not replace employment contracts, contractor agreements, client statements of work, or applicable local labor laws. Where this policy and a signed agreement conflict, the signed agreement controls.

Remote-first commitment

ScaleKernel operates as a remote-first company. Our default mode of work is distributed — not a temporary exception to office-based norms.

• Client engagements are structured for async collaboration and scheduled syncs, not co-location requirements.
• Documentation, written updates, and recorded decisions are first-class — not afterthoughts to hallway conversations.
• Hiring and performance are evaluated on outcomes and communication, not physical presence.
• In-person meetings are intentional and infrequent — for key workshops, team offsites, or client needs where agreed in advance.

Work locations and eligibility

Team members may work from any location where they can reliably perform their role, comply with applicable law, and meet the security requirements in this policy.

Approved locations

• A private home office or dedicated workspace with a stable internet connection.
• A co-working space or professional office that meets confidentiality and security expectations.
• Temporary locations while traveling, provided security practices in the Security section are maintained.

Restrictions

• Work must not be performed from public settings where confidential client or company information could be overheard or viewed on screen (for example, open seating on transit or in cafes during sensitive calls).
• You may not work from jurisdictions where doing so would violate export controls, sanctions, or contractual restrictions applicable to ScaleKernel or its clients without prior written approval.
• If your work location changes for more than two weeks (including relocation or extended travel), notify ScaleKernel so tax, payroll, insurance, and compliance implications can be reviewed.

Schedule, availability, and time zones

We do not require a single global clock-in time. We do require predictable overlap for collaboration and timely responses on committed work.

• Each team member maintains a consistent weekly schedule with documented core hours — the window when you are reachable for live meetings and urgent messages.
• Core hours should overlap with your squad, client stakeholders, or internal leads as agreed at onboarding or phase kickoff.
• Calendars stay accurate; out-of-office and delayed-response expectations are set before absences.
• Client-facing roles align syncs to phase gates, roadmap reviews, and delivery milestones described in active statements of work — not ad-hoc availability pressure.

Flexible scheduling is encouraged when it does not impair delivery commitments. Adjustments for caregiving, health, time zone changes, or local holidays should be communicated early to your lead.

Communication and collaboration

Remote work succeeds when communication is explicit. Default to written context; use live conversations for alignment, not as the only record of decisions.

• Use company-approved channels for work-related messages, files, and calls — not personal accounts for client or proprietary material.
• Share progress through agreed rituals (for example, weekly updates, phase artifacts, and documented readouts at phase end).
• Respond to internal messages within one business day during your core hours unless a different SLA is defined for an active engagement.
• Escalate blockers early with context: what is stuck, what was tried, and what decision is needed.
• Meetings have agendas and outcomes; cancel or shorten meetings that can be resolved asynchronously.

Tools, equipment, and expenses

ScaleKernel provides or specifies the tools required to do your job securely. Personal devices may be used only when approved and configured to company security standards.

• Company-issued or approved hardware must run current operating system updates and disk encryption where applicable.
• Reimbursable home-office and connectivity expenses follow your employment or contractor agreement and applicable expense policy — submit itemized requests with prior approval where required.
• Software licenses for work are procured through ScaleKernel; do not store client deliverables or credentials in unapproved consumer apps.
• You are responsible for a professional-grade internet connection and a workspace suitable for video calls during core hours.

Security, confidentiality, and data

Because we access client systems, codebases, analytics, and business data, remote work at ScaleKernel carries a high bar for security — regardless of location.

• Use multi-factor authentication on all company and client-access accounts.
• Lock devices when unattended; do not share credentials or allow household members to use work devices.
• Access client environments only through approved VPNs, SSO, or client-mandated controls.
• Do not download client data to personal storage; use client-approved repositories and retention rules.
• Report lost devices, suspected phishing, or security incidents to hello@scalekernel.com immediately — within 24 hours at most.
• Follow applicable privacy obligations described in our Privacy Policy when handling personal information.

Client engagements and travel

Most ScaleKernel client work is delivered remotely. On-site visits are exceptional and require client invitation, internal approval, and clear scope.

• Travel for client work is pre-approved in writing and reimbursed per agreement.
• While representing ScaleKernel on site or on calls, you follow client workplace rules and this policy's confidentiality standards.
• Time zone fairness applies to client teams: avoid routinely scheduling contributors outside their stated core hours without consent.

Performance and accountability

Remote work does not change our standard for delivery. We measure progress by shipped outcomes, clear artifacts, honest readouts, and how reliably you meet commitments — not by hours logged online.

• Deliverables, phase scopes, and success metrics are defined upfront for client work; internal work follows equivalent clarity.
• Leads provide regular feedback; sustained gaps in communication, security compliance, or delivery may result in corrective action up to termination of engagement, per contract and law.
• Secondary employment or consulting that creates a conflict of interest with ScaleKernel or its clients must be disclosed and may require approval.

Health, safety, and workspace

You are responsible for maintaining a safe, ergonomic workspace. ScaleKernel encourages sustainable work habits in a distributed environment.

• Take breaks and reasonable time off; burnout impairs the quality our clients depend on.
• Follow local health and safety regulations for your workspace.
• Report work-related injuries or hazards that arise in the course of your duties to hello@scalekernel.com and your lead.

Changes to this policy

We may update this Remote Work Policy as our operations, regulations, or client obligations evolve. The "Last updated" date at the top reflects the latest revision. Material changes will be communicated to active team members. Continued engagement with ScaleKernel after updates take effect constitutes acknowledgment of the revised policy, subject to applicable law and individual agreements.

Contact

For questions about remote work, accommodations, or this policy:

• Email: hello@scalekernel.com
• Website: https://scalekernel.com