Free tool

Shift Coverage Calculator

Enter your shift schedule below to estimate the staff headcount needed to keep every shift covered, including a buffer for absences and time off.

Staff needed on duty at once

Shift length (hours)

Shifts per day

Days per week covered

Hours per staff member per week

Absence / PTO buffer (%)

Recommended headcount

10 staff

336 labor hours/week ÷ 40 hrs/staff = 8.4 FTE, plus a 10% absence buffer = 9.2 FTE, rounded up.