Contract-to-Hire
Try before you commit. Start as a contractor, transition to full-time when both parties are confident it's the right fit.
What is Contract-to-Hire?
Contract-to-hire (also called "temp-to-perm") is an arrangement where you start working as a contractor with the option to convert to full-time employment. Both the professional and employer get to evaluate the fit before making a permanent commitment. It's the lowest-risk way to find your next great job or hire.
Typical 6-Month Timeline
How Contract-to-Hire Works
Post or Apply
Employers post contract-to-hire positions specifying the contract duration (typically 3-6 months) and potential full-time conversion. Professionals apply through Automate America.
Contract Period Begins
The professional starts working as a contractor. They're paid weekly at the agreed hourly rate through Automate America or through the employer directly.
Evaluation Period
Both parties assess the fit during the contract. Regular check-ins help align expectations. Either party can end the contract without penalty.
Conversion Decision
At the end of the contract period, both parties decide whether to convert to permanent employment. Terms are negotiated directly.
Full-Time Employment
Upon conversion, the professional becomes a direct employee of the company with full benefits, salary, and employment status.
Benefits for Professionals
Why smart professionals choose contract-to-hire
Test-drive the job first
You get inside the plant before you commit — the team, the equipment, the way they actually run. If the culture is right you convert; if it is not, you walked in with eyes open.
Earning from day one
You are on the clock at your contractor rate the whole trial, not sitting through an unpaid audition. The evaluation happens while you are already getting paid.
A clean exit if it is not right
If the fit is off, you finish the contract and move on — no six-week stint on the resume that you have to explain in every future interview.
Negotiate from proof, not a pitch
By conversion time you have already shown what you do on their floor. You are negotiating salary from demonstrated value, not a resume and a good feeling.
Benefits for Employers
Why companies reduce hiring risk with contract-to-hire
See the work before the offer
You watch the person solve real problems on your line before you put them on permanent payroll — the truest interview there is, run at your actual pace.
Onboarding is already done
By the time you convert, they know your PLCs, your team, and your process. Day one as an employee is really day sixty on the job.
Lower turnover, both sides sure
When both parties spent the trial confirming the fit, nobody is surprised after the offer — which is exactly what keeps a hire from walking in month three.
An exit ramp if plans change
If the project shifts or the budget moves before conversion, you have flexibility a straight permanent hire never gives you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I'm not converted to full-time?
No problem - you've gained valuable experience and were paid throughout. Many professionals find their next opportunity quickly, and you leave with a good reference. Some continue contracting for the same company.
How is the conversion salary determined?
The salary is negotiated between you and the employer at conversion time. Your contract rate can inform the discussion, but full-time salaries typically include benefits value, so the hourly equivalent may differ.
Can I work contract-to-hire remotely?
Yes, many contract-to-hire positions are remote or hybrid. The work arrangement during the contract period typically continues into full-time employment, but this should be confirmed before accepting an offer.
What if I don't want to convert to full-time?
That's completely fine. Some professionals prefer the contractor lifestyle. You can respectfully decline the full-time offer and continue contracting elsewhere. Be upfront if you know early you're not interested.
Do I get benefits during the contract period?
Through our White Glove service, you can access benefits including health insurance during the contract. For Standard contracts, you would handle your own benefits as an independent contractor until conversion.
Find Your Next Opportunity
Browse contract-to-hire positions or post a job today.