The only time I have seen this is with startups --- where they are cash strapped so engineers building the new product are given *equity* instead of wages.

Equity can be created simply by issuing stock --- which for a startup with negative cash flow is basically worthless at the time.

This is highly risky for the employee. If the product/company is wildly successful, early employees can get rich. But most startups fail --- so more often, they're left with nothing to show for their work.

I have seen sales people get *recurring* commissions --- where they get a piece of every future sale to a particular client. Even if they have no involvement in the purchase. In extreme cases, they make good money doing nothing.

Engineers never get paid for doing nothing --- because they are not members of the ruling class.