Frequently asked questions
Q: What type of assignments can I expect from SOS Temporary Services?
A: The majority of assignments with SOS are for skilled office positions. On occasion, there may be a limited need for assignments involving light labor duties or highly skilled services.
Q: What is the average length of an assignment?
A: The length of each assignment varies, depending on the needs of the departments. It could be for one day, weeks or months. Assignments can end unexpectedly or be extended.
Q: How often could I expect assignments?
A: As with any temporary service, there is no guarantee that you will be kept steadily employed. Several factors determine this:
- Your skills and experience
- Departmental needs
- Number of available assignments
Q: How much will I get paid?
A: All temporary employees are assigned hourly pay rates based on standard university wage scale. Most assignments will pay between $8.00 and $10.50/hr.
Q: Can I work for SOS and continue to seek permanent employment?
A: Yes. SOS employees may continue to apply for regular positions and continue to work through SOS.
Q: Can an SOS assignment go from temporary to permanent?
A: Yes. SOS Temporary Services is a good way to get your foot in the door! Our Temp to Hire program also provides you the opportunity to “try on” a job before making a commitment. Just indicate you are interested in temp-to-hire assignments during your interview. Two week's notice is required to transfer into a benefit eligible position.
Q: How long can an SOS person work for the same department?
A: There is no restriction on length of assignments for SOS employees.
Q: Can retirees work for SOS?
A: Yes. In fact, flexible hours and ability to choose assignments is something retired employees like most.
Q: Can I work for SOS if I am in Layoff Status?
A: Yes. Your layoff benefits remain intact while employed with SOS. You will continue to be responsible for your portions of staff benefits.
Q: Is training available for SOS Temps?
A: Yes. Free training is available to SOS temps. Many on-line training opportunities are available through the Division of Information Technology (DoIT). In addition, as a way to reward long-term temps, anyone working for SOS Temporary Services for at least six months may enroll in instructor-led classes offered by the Division of Technology Services. Call SOS for more information and to see if you qualify..
Q: Are there any benefits?
A: Temporary employees do not qualify for vacation, sick leave, holiday pay, medical insurance or educational assistance. However, there are many recreation and leisure opportunities as well as discounts on some products and services available to you. See extra perks for details.
Q: Are temporary employees subject to a background check?
A: Yes. In order to determine suitability for employments, all new and rehires and transfers to new departments are subject to criminal background checks. Eligibility for employment is contingent on the results of the background checks.
Q: How Do I Report Hours Worked?
A: Employees are required to turn in a Biweekly time sheet — non benefit eligible at the end of each biweekly pay period. Time sheets should be submitted electronically (see completion instructions) and must be received in our office by 8:00 a.m. on the Monday following the end of the pay period. Deadlines cannot be adjusted. If you fail to turn in your completed sheet by the due date, your hours will be processed the following payroll period.