temporarywork

Temporary work, also known as temporary employment, refers to an employment arrangement in which a worker is hired for a fixed or limited period to perform specific tasks rather than being employed indefinitely by a single employer. Common forms include temporary agency work, where workers are employed by a staffing agency that places them with client companies; fixed-term contracts; and contract or freelance assignments. Some programs include a temp-to-hire option, where successful performance may lead to permanent employment.

Temps are typically paid through the staffing agency, which handles payroll, taxes, and, in some cases, benefits; in other arrangements, the client company directly pays the worker under a fixed-term contract. Duration can range from a few days to several months, and longer assignments may transition to permanent employment if both parties agree.

Temporary work is used to cover seasonal demand, project-based needs, workforce turnover, or skill shortfalls, and is common across sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, administration, healthcare, information technology, and construction. The legal and regulatory environment varies by country; some jurisdictions provide rights to equal treatment, minimum wage, and access to benefits for temporary workers, while others rely on contract terms and agency policies. In the European Union, directives address temporary agency work to ensure fairness and prevent abuse; in the United States, federal and state laws govern minimum wages, overtime, and non-discrimination.

Advantages for employers include flexibility and cost control, while workers may gain rapid employment and skill development. Drawbacks can include lower job security, limited access to benefits, and variable career progression. Trends include the growth of on-demand platforms and ongoing emphasis on credential portability and protections for temporary workers.