Types of employment: which one is right for you?

With many different types of employment available, it can be difficult to determine which kind is right for you. There are two main types of employment: hours-based and length-based. Most people are already familiar with hours-based positions, usually full-time or part-time. There is also length-based employment, which includes permanent, temporary and seasonal roles.

Keep reading to learn more about each type of employment.

Full-time

The specific requirements for full-time work can vary between organizations, but typically, anyone who works more than 30 hours a week is considered a full-time employee. For many companies, a full-time employee works eight hours a day, totalling a 40-hour work week. However, full-time hours differ between companies, and employees should refer to the hours defined in their contract or company policies.

Full-time employment often comes with benefits that other employees do not receive. For example, many full-time employees receive health, dental and vision insurance. Benefits also differ depending on the company, and there is no set minimum.

Along with longer hours, full-time employees often receive a higher salary compared to part-time employees. Many full-time positions require higher levels of skill and experience, so their compensation is usually greater.

Part-time

Part-time employment often entails working under 30 hours per week. While part-time employees can work more than this, it is important to remember that according to the Employment Standards Act, part-time or full-time employees who work over 44 hours a week must be paid overtime.

Since part-time employees often work fewer hours than full-time employees, part-time employment offers a better work-life balance. Part-time employees often have days off during the week, which allows for more flexibility and personal time.   

Part-time employment is also a great way to explore different career options and transition into new fields. Part-time employment offers a chance to test potential job opportunities and gain experience without committing to full-time hours.

Permanent

While full-time and part-time positions are defined by the number of hours an employee works, permanent, temporary and seasonal jobs are determined by the length of employment. Sometimes positions will be a mix between hours-based and length-based. For example, an employee might be permanent part-time or temporary full-time.

A permanent employee has a position in a business without a predetermined end date and can work with the same company for months or even years.

Typically, permanent employees receive substantial benefits, especially if they work full-time. These benefits can include health care coverage and paid time off.

Temporary

Temporary employees work for a defined period, typically a few weeks or months. Temporary employment may be beneficial for individuals looking to change career fields. With short contracts, they can build up relevant experience and skills before looking for a permanent position.

Some temporary positions are designed to lead to permanent positions and can act as a test for employees to see if they are a good fit before a company hires them permanently.

Seasonal

Seasonal employees are individuals who temporarily work during specific times of the year, usually when a company sees increased demand during certain seasons. Seasonal employees often work part-time hours, and because of their temporary status, they rarely receive insurance or other benefits offered to permanent employees.

Seasonal jobs are only available during specific times of the year when a company needs more assistance with its operations. Seasonal employment can be a way for a worker to start with a company before building up to a permanent position later. Seasonal employees may also be rehired by the same company during the next season, either for the same position or a new one.

With many options for employment available, continue researching to find out what’s right for you. Different employment types might be beneficial at different times in your career, so don’t lose out on the benefits of taking on a temporary or seasonal position for a short while.