For multiple years, fabrication positions have been transitioning. Shifting customer requirements plus rising hiring costs have pushed numerous manufacturers into hiring fabrication staff on a temp-to-full time basis. It’s a less risky and generally quicker alternative for an employer to offer than a permanent job and gives an employer greater flexibility.
With a temp-to-full time fabrication job becoming more common, this might be the next type of job you are offered. However, temp-to-full time fabrication jobs come with both plusses and minuses.
Benefits and Drawbacks of temp-to-full time Fabrication Jobs
For job seekers, the following lists some of the pros and cons of temp-to-full time jobs in fabrication to help you decide whether to seek such a position in this environment.
Benefits of a temp-to-full time Fabrication Job
A temp-to-full time fabrication job can offer a foot-in-the-door into a manufacturing environment, making it easier to land a permanent role down the road. While you may be nervous to accept a role that does not assure a permanent position at the end of the contract, it can come with a lot of benefits, such as:
Opportunity for full-time employment
Hiring costs for manufacturing companies can be high. Bersin by Deloitte found that the average national cost per hire is $5,611 for manufacturing jobs. Finding truly skilled fabrication workers is difficult. Some candidates overstate their competence or don’t match the employer’s culture. A temp-to-full time hire permits a firm to ‘try-before buying.’ It also allows you to do the same.
If you prove yourself to be a skilled, eager worker, and make a good impression on your direct supervisor through your term of employment, you would be more likely to be extended a permanent spot by the company.
A trend toward temp jobs in the manufacturing industry
Industry statistics are showing that employers are more likely to hire temp employees than previously. Our experience shows that more employers have started to hire manufacturing workers for a temp-to-full time fabrication job. This approach helps them plan more efficiently and be more responsive to their rapidly changing employment situation.
As more temp jobs pop up, your likelihood of getting a temp position offer rather than a permanent offer could be increased. But, once you have established yourself, you can demonstrate that the employer should offer you a permanent fabrication job.
Maintain an uninterrupted employment record
With nearly 10 million Americans unemployed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, finding a new fabrication job remains difficult. Job competition is aggressive with less jobs to compete for.
Taking a temp-to-full time contract allows you to show recruiters continuous employment. It also helps to keep your cash flow positive and demonstrates that you are enthusiastic to work.
Trial run at a company
As mentioned earlier, the ‘try before you buy’ evaluating does not only benefit the employer. It also gives you a trial run to see if the job is a good fit.
Taking on a temp-to-full time manufacturing job gives you time to settle in. You can determine if the company, the job tasks, your co-workers, and the culture are right for you. If not, you can leave at the end of your temporary contract and look for something else.
Drawbacks of temp-to-full time Manufacturing Jobs
As you can see, a temp-to-full time fabrication job in manufacturing can present a great opportunity. However, like any job, it can have its downsides too. The main drawbacks to taking a temp-to-full time fabrication job are:
Does not always lead to full-time employment
Temp-to-full time roles never guarantee a full-time position at the end of the contract. You may spend a few months working for a company, really like the job, but at the end of that time you may need to return to your job search.
Lack of benefits
Temporary staff usually do not receive the benefits that permanent employees do. Paid time off, sick pay, and other benefits may not be offered to you while you are in a temporary role.
In Conclusion
Fabrication jobs are changing. With continuous changes in demand and employers wanting high-quality candidates, temp-to-full time positions are becoming more commonplace. While this might be a change from the type of role you really seek, it can really be a good opportunity to gain the right job at the right company for you.
For help finding your next job in manufacturing, contact Flexicrew Today