dayworker

A dayworker is a person who is hired for a specific job or task on a daily basis. This arrangement is common in various industries, particularly in agriculture, construction, and domestic service. Dayworkers are typically paid at the end of each day's work. They often do not have a long-term contract with their employer and may work for different employers on different days.

The practice of employing dayworkers provides flexibility for both the employer and the employee. Employers can hire labor as needed, scaling their workforce up or down based on seasonal demands or project requirements. For the worker, it offers the opportunity to earn income without the commitment of a permanent position, allowing them to manage their time and seek work from multiple sources.

However, the dayworker system can also present challenges. Dayworkers may lack the job security, benefits, and legal protections often afforded to permanent employees. Their income can be inconsistent, depending on the availability of daily work. In some regions, there are efforts to formalize day labor by establishing day labor centers that connect workers with employers and can offer resources and advocate for fair wages and working conditions. The term itself can sometimes carry historical or social connotations related to labor practices and worker rights.