Working with a Temporary Agency

Why work with a temporary agency?

• Do you want to find a job fast?

• Do you want to get your foot in the door somewhere?

• Do you want to try something new?

• Do you want to keep your options open?

• If you answered "yes" to any of those questions, you might want to work with a temp agency.

What is a temp agency?

A temporary agency provides companies with workers to fill temporary positions. The worker is an employee of the temporary agency. The temp agency pays the worker's wages and deducts taxes.

In Southern Sonoma County, there are two main temp agencies. They are Star Staffing and Nelson Staffing. Neither agency charges temp employees a fee. If you work in Petaluma, you can count on payment of at least $15 per hour. Petaluma's minimum wage for large employers is $15.

What kind of work is available?

Much of the work is in manufacturing, warehousing and general labor. Most temp workers are helping to meet seasonal demands. You will also find a lot of office and clerical work, especially data entry.

Some companies like to do "temp to hire." If they like your work, they may offer you a permanent position.

How do I get started?

For Star Staffing, visit https://www.starhr.com/ and begin the application process online.

For Nelson Staffing, call 762-5100. After a short conversation, the Nelson representative will email you an application link.

For both agencies, be prepared to provide employment and residential history.

As with any job, you must provide documents that prove you have the right to work. See "required documents" for more information.

How quickly can I get to work?

You can be at work in a matter of days or weeks.

How can I benefit from the experience?

Working as a temp gives you the opportunity to explore new fields, develop new skills and make a good impression. You can add new skills and new references to your résumé.