What type of labor pays employees on an hourly basis?

Variable labor is characterized by payment structures that fluctuate based on hours worked or specific tasks completed. In the context of the hospitality industry, employees who receive hourly wages—such as housekeepers, front desk staff, and maintenance workers—are typically classified as variable labor. This classification aligns with the nature of their work, where the total hours can change from week to week depending on operational needs.

In contrast, fixed labor would imply a set salary that does not change regardless of hours worked, making it unsuitable for hourly payment. Temporary labor refers more to the duration of employment rather than the payment structure. Commission-based labor involves payment that is contingent upon sales or performance metrics, which also does not align with hourly pay. Therefore, variable labor is the correct choice, as it specifically encompasses those employees who are compensated based on the number of hours they work.