Essential functions are the basic job duties that an employee or applicant must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Essential functions are the fundamental, crucial job duties performed in a position. They do not include marginal functions, which are extra or incidental duties. A function may be essential because:

1. The position exists to perform that function.
2. There are limited number of employees available who could perform that function.
3. The function is highly specialized, and the incumbent is hired for special expertise or ability to perform it.