What Aerotek Does

Aerotek is a staffing agency that matches workers with temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct-hire jobs across many industries. The company does not post jobs on a public board and wait for applications — instead, recruiters contact candidates directly or candidates contact Aerotek's local branches to be matched with openings. Aerotek handles the paperwork between you and the employer, processes your paychecks, and manages taxes and benefits for temporary assignments.

Aerotek operates through local branch offices in most U.S. states. You work with a recruiter at your nearest branch who learns what kind of work you do, what schedule you need, and what pay range you want. That recruiter then calls or emails you when an opening matches your profile. If you accept, Aerotek becomes your employer for the duration of the assignment — you are on Aerotek's payroll, not the client company's payroll.

The company places workers in manufacturing, warehouse, logistics, administrative, healthcare, skilled trades, and professional roles. Assignment lengths range from a few days to several months, and some temp positions convert to permanent jobs with the client company.

Key Takeaways

  • Aerotek is your employer during temporary assignments, meaning you receive a paycheck from Aerotek and Aerotek withholds taxes, even though you work at a client company's location.
  • You contact a local Aerotek branch in person or by phone to register, and a recruiter matches you with openings rather than you searching a job board yourself.
  • Temp-to-hire positions let you work as a temporary employee first, and the client company can convert you to permanent staff if both sides agree.
  • Aerotek offers benefits such as health insurance and 401(k) plans to may be able to access temporary workers, though coverage varies by assignment length and hours worked.
  • You are paid by Aerotek on a weekly or biweekly schedule, and Aerotek deducts taxes, Social Security, and Medicare from your paycheck.

How to Register with Aerotek

To work with Aerotek, you first contact a branch office near you. You can find branch locations and phone numbers on Aerotek's website by entering your city or zip code. Call the branch directly or visit in person with a valid government ID, Social Security card or number, and proof of address (a utility bill or lease works). Some branches let you start the registration process online, but you will need to complete it in person or over the phone with a recruiter.

During registration, a recruiter asks about your work history, the types of jobs you want, your availability, and your pay expectations. Be honest about your skills and experience — the recruiter uses this information to match you with jobs you can actually do. If you have certifications (such as a commercial driver's license, forklift certification, or nursing license), bring documentation. The recruiter may also ask you to take a skills test or background check, depending on the type of work you are seeking.

After registration, the recruiter keeps your profile on file. When an opening matches your skills and availability, the recruiter contacts you by phone or email. You can accept or decline each assignment — there is no obligation to take every job offered.

Temporary, Temp-to-Hire, and Direct-Hire Roles

Temporary assignments are short-term jobs that end on a set date or when the work is complete. You know going in that the assignment is temporary. These are useful if you need work for a few weeks or months, want to try a new type of job, or need flexible scheduling. Temporary assignments typically pay hourly wages.

Temp-to-hire positions start as temporary assignments but give the client company the option to hire you as a permanent employee. You work as a temporary employee (on Aerotek's payroll) for a trial period — usually 90 days to six months — and if both you and the client company want to continue, the company hires you directly. Once hired, you move to the client company's payroll and benefits. Temp-to-hire is a way for employers to test whether a worker is a good fit before committing to a permanent hire.

Direct-hire positions are permanent jobs from the start. Aerotek recruits and screens candidates, but once you are hired, you work directly for the client company, not for Aerotek. Your paycheck comes from the client company, and you are covered by their benefits plan.

How Pay and Taxes Work

When you work a temporary assignment through Aerotek, Aerotek is your employer and issues your paycheck. You are paid on a weekly or biweekly schedule, depending on the branch and assignment. Your paycheck includes your hourly wage minus federal income tax withholding, Social Security tax (6.2%), Medicare tax (1.45%), and any state or local income taxes that explore where you work.

The hourly rate you receive is set between you and Aerotek before the assignment starts. This rate is usually lower than what the client company pays Aerotek for your work — Aerotek keeps the difference as its fee. Rates vary by job type, location, and your experience. Aerotek does not charge you a fee to register or to find you work.

If you work enough hours in a quarter, you may be sent a 1099 form instead of a W-2, depending on how Aerotek classifies your assignment. Ask your recruiter which tax form you will receive before you start work, so you know what to expect at tax time.

Benefits Available to Temporary Workers

Aerotek offers health insurance, dental coverage, vision coverage, and a 401(k) retirement plan to temporary workers who meet may be able to access requirements. may be able to access usually depends on how many hours you work per week and how long your assignment lasts. A typical threshold is working at least 30 hours per week for at least 90 days, though this varies by location and assignment type.

Health insurance through Aerotek is not automatic — you must enroll during your may be able to access period, usually within 30 days of starting an assignment. Your recruiter or the branch office can explain which plans are available and what the monthly premiums are. If you are already covered by another plan (such as through a spouse's employer or a government program), you can decline Aerotek's coverage.

The 401(k) plan lets you contribute a portion of your paycheck to retirement savings. Aerotek does not automatically match contributions, but some branches may offer matching — ask your recruiter. You can contribute to the 401(k) even if you do not enroll in health insurance.

What Happens When an Assignment Ends

When a temporary assignment ends, your employment with Aerotek for that assignment ends. You receive a final paycheck for hours worked, and if you were enrolled in health insurance, your coverage ends on the last day of the assignment (unless you extend or move to another assignment when ready). You do not receive severance or unemployment pay from Aerotek for temporary assignments — this is a key difference from permanent employment.

After an assignment ends, you remain registered with Aerotek. Your recruiter can contact you about new openings that match your profile. If you want to stay active in the system, let your recruiter know you are available for more work. If you do not hear from your recruiter for several months, you may need to re-register or update your profile.

If a temp-to-hire assignment converts to permanent employment, the client company hires you directly and you move to their payroll. At that point, you are no longer an Aerotek employee, and your benefits come from the client company instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to accept every job Aerotek offers me?

No. You can decline assignments without penalty. However, if you decline too many jobs that match your profile, your recruiter may stop calling you. Staying responsive and accepting work you are suited for helps your recruiter keep you in mind for future openings.

Can I work for another staffing agency at the same time as Aerotek?

Yes, you can register with multiple staffing agencies. However, tell each recruiter that you are registered elsewhere, so they do not send you to the same job. Also, check whether your assignment contract prohibits working for competitors during the assignment — some client companies require exclusivity.

What if I get hurt on the job?

Aerotek carries workers' compensation insurance that covers temporary employees. If you are injured, report it to your supervisor and to your Aerotek recruiter when ready. Workers' compensation covers medical treatment and lost wages if you cannot work. The process and benefits vary by state.

How long does it take to get my first assignment after I register?

This depends on your skills, the jobs available in your area, and how quickly you can start. Some people get a call within days; others wait weeks. Staying in touch with your recruiter and being flexible about start dates and shift times can speed up placement.

What if a temp-to-hire position does not convert to permanent?

If the client company decides not to hire you permanently, your temporary assignment ends. You are not owed a permanent job — temp-to-hire means the company has the option to hire you, not an obligation. You can then register for other assignments through Aerotek.