Same boat, different journeys: a latent profile analysis of hybrid work experiences among technical-administrative staff in public academia

Purpose This study investigated the heterogeneity of hybrid work experiences in the public academic sector by identifying distinct demand–resource profiles and examining their associations with occupational health and behavioral outcomes. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional design involved academic technical-administrative staff engaged in hybrid work. A latent profile analysis (LPA) was conducted using six indicators: workload, techno-complexity, work autonomy, work self-efficacy, organizational learning culture and continuous learning behaviors. Distal outcomes included psychological well-being, job satisfaction and multidimensional job performance. Findings The analysis revealed three distinct profiles: digital routinarians, digital castaways and resource-rich thrivers. Significant between-profile differences emerged across all outcomes. Resource-rich thrivers reported the highest levels of well-being and performance, whereas digital castaways exhibited the most vulnerable psychological and professional outcomes. Originality/value This study challenges the “one-size-fits-all” perspective on hybrid work and highlights the need for profile-sensitive interventions that foster sustainable well-being and job performance in public academia.