To help you get started, we’ve compiled a sample list of staffing firms and temporary employment agencies in the region. Please note that this is not a comprehensive list, and the firms included are provided for informational purposes only. Bridgewater State University does not endorse or recommend any specific agency.

Access More Job Opportunities

Many employers work exclusively with staffing agencies to fill open positions. Registering with an agency gives you access to jobs you may not find on public job boards.

It’s Free for Job Seekers

Reputable staffing firms never charge candidates to find employment. Employers pay the staffing agency for recruiting services.

Variety of Opportunities

Staffing recruiters work directly with hiring managers, helping qualified candidates get interviews more quickly. However, some of these positions can be short term, temporary, contract role, temp-to-hire, direct hire, full-time or part-time opportunities.

Step 1: Apply Online

Complete an application and upload your resume. Be sure your work history and contact information are current.

Step 2: Meet with a Recruiter

A recruiter will discuss your:

• Skills
• Experience
• Career goals
• Availability
• Preferred work location
• Salary expectations

The more information you provide, the better they can match you with available positions.

Step 3: Skills Assessment

Depending on the position, you may complete assessments that evaluate:

• Computer skills
• Typing speed
• Technical knowledge
• Industry certifications
• Professional competencies

These assessments help identify the best job matches.

Step 4: Job Matching

When a position matches your qualifications, your recruiter will contact you with details about the opportunity.

Never accept a position unless you understand:

• Job responsibilities
• Work schedule
• Pay rate
• Location
• Dress code
• Assignment duration

Ask questions before accepting an assignment.

Step 5: Interview (If Required)

Some employers request interviews before making a hiring decision.

Prepare by:

• Researching the company
• Dressing professionally
• Arriving early
• Bringing copies of your resume
• Being ready to discuss your experience

Step 6: Start Working

Once hired, your recruiter will provide instructions regarding:

• First-day reporting
• Required documents
• Timekeeping procedures
• Payroll schedule
• Workplace expectations

Relationship with Your Recruiter

Your recruiter is your career partner. Help them help you by:

• Returning calls and emails promptly
• Updating your resume regularly
• Being flexible when possible
• Sharing your career goals
• Providing feedback after interviews and assignments

The stronger your relationship with your recruiter, the better they can advocate for you with employers.

Be Honest

Provide accurate information about your experience, certifications, and availability.

Stay Responsive

Answer phone calls, emails, and text messages from your recruiter promptly. Job opportunities often move quickly.

Keep Your Availability Updated

Notify your recruiter if your schedule changes or if you accept another position.

Be Reliable

Show up on time, work professionally, and communicate if emergencies arise.

Build Your Reputation

Strong attendance and excellent performance often lead to:

• Longer assignments
• Better-paying opportunities
• Permanent employment offers
• Referrals to top employers

Working with a staffing agency can be a great way to gain experience, explore career options, and secure temporary or contract employment. As you evaluate agencies, keep these best practices in mind:

• Research the agency. Visit the company’s website, read online reviews, and verify that it has a professional presence and a history of placing candidates in reputable organizations.
• Never pay to get a job. Legitimate staffing firms do not charge job seekers fees for placement or require payment for access to job opportunities.
• Confirm the agency’s specialization. Some firms focus on industries such as business, finance, accounting, healthcare, technology, or administrative support. Choose an agency that aligns with your career interests and skills.
• Ask about the hiring process. Reputable agencies will explain the application process, interview expectations, pay rates, work schedules, and assignment details before you accept a position.
• Understand the employment relationship. Ask whether you will be employed by the staffing agency or directly by the client organization, and clarify who is responsible for payroll, benefits, taxes, and workplace policies.
• Protect your personal information. Only provide sensitive information, such as your Social Security number or banking information, after you have verified the agency’s legitimacy and understand why the information is needed.
• Watch for warning signs. Be cautious of agencies that promise guaranteed employment, pressure you to accept a position immediately, communicate unprofessionally, or ask you to pay upfront fees.
• Know your pay and benefits. Before accepting an assignment, confirm your hourly wage or salary, overtime eligibility, payment schedule, and any available benefits.
• Maintain professional communication. Respond promptly to recruiters, keep your résumé updated, and communicate your availability, career goals, and preferences clearly.
• Use Career Services & Internships as a resource. If you’re unsure about a staffing agency or a job opportunity, consult Career Services & Internships office for guidance before accepting an offer.

Staffing agencies can provide valuable opportunities to gain experience, earn income, and expand your professional network. However, it’s important to understand some potential limitations before accepting an assignment.

• Temporary employment. Many positions are short-term or project-based, and there may not be a guarantee of continued employment once an assignment ends.
• Limited benefits. Depending on the staffing agency and assignment, temporary employees may receive fewer benefits than full-time employees hired directly by an organization.
• Variable work schedules. Assignments may fluctuate based on employer demand, and work may not always be available when you need it.
• Less choice in assignments. While recruiters try to match your interests and qualifications, the opportunities available may not always align with your preferred industry, role, or schedule.
• Lower starting pay for some positions. Entry-level temporary roles may offer lower compensation than comparable direct-hire positions, although they can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities.
• Limited integration with the employer. Temporary employees may have fewer opportunities to participate in company meetings, training programs, or long-term projects than permanent staff.
• Performance expectations remain high. Employers often use temporary assignments to evaluate potential future hires, so professionalism, reliability, and strong performance are essential.
• Communication through the staffing agency. Questions about scheduling, payroll, or workplace concerns may need to be addressed through the staffing agency rather than directly with the employer.

Despite these potential drawbacks, staffing firms can be an excellent way to gain professional experience, explore career paths, develop new skills, and build connections that may lead to future full-time employment. Understanding both the benefits and limitations can help you make informed decisions about the opportunities that best support your career goals.

Do staffing agencies charge job seekers?

No. Legitimate staffing agencies do not charge candidates for job placement services.

Will I be a temporary employee?

That depends on the assignment. Opportunities may be temporary, contract, temp-to-hire, or direct hire.

Can a temporary job become permanent?

Yes. Many employers use temporary assignments as a way to evaluate candidates before offering permanent positions.

How often will I be paid?

Payroll schedules vary by agency. Your recruiter will explain your pay schedule during the onboarding process. Often time, you will be employed under the staffing agency rather than the employment site. Some of these positions may not include any employment benefits and salary are usually non-negotiable.

What if I cannot work an assignment?

Contact your recruiter immediately. Communication is essential and helps maintain a positive working relationship.