This study examined the relationship between non‐standard work schedules (shift work and weekend work) and job burnout, stress and psychosomatic health problems among full‐time employed Canadians in a large metropolitan city on the east coast. Data were collected by means of a structured mail back questionnaire (N = 376). Employees involved with weekend work reported significantly higher emotional exhaustion, job stress and psychosomatic health problems than employees not involved with weekend work. Similarly, employees on non‐standard work shifts (other than fixed day shift, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.) reported significantly higher overall burnout, emotional exhaustion, job stress and health problems than employees on a fixed day shift. Results from two‐way ANOVA indicated that employees involved with weekend work and non‐fixed day shifts reported significantly higher emotional exhaustion and health problems than other employees. Implications of the findings are discussed for future researchers in light of employee well‐being and non‐standard work schedules. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.