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 FEED.
Contract Period Begins
The professional starts working as a contractor. They're paid weekly at the agreed hourly rate through FEED 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
Try Before You Commit
Work with a company before making a permanent commitment. See if the culture, team, and work are right for you.
Immediate Income
Start earning contractor rates while exploring the full-time opportunity. No unpaid waiting periods.
Flexibility
If it's not the right fit, you can move on without the stigma of a short employment stint on your resume.
Negotiating Power
Prove your value on the job, then negotiate your full-time salary from a position of demonstrated worth.
Benefits for Employers
Why companies reduce hiring risk with contract-to-hire
Reduce Hiring Risk
See how a candidate performs in your actual work environment before making a permanent offer.
Faster Onboarding
By the time conversion happens, the employee already knows your systems, team, and processes.
Lower Turnover
Both parties enter the employment relationship with clear expectations, reducing early departures.
Flexible Workforce
If business needs change, you have flexibility that traditional hiring doesn't provide.
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.