Best Temp Agencies To Help You Get A Job

Job hunting can be a demanding and challenging experience, particularly in today’s evolving job market. Many individuals may find themselves in urgent need of an income to address financial obligations.

Temp agencies serve as valuable resources for professionals seeking immediate employment, helping streamline the job search process and quickly connecting you with available positions.

In this article, we’ll explore what temp agencies are, how they operate, their costs and benefits, and highlight some of the best agencies in 2026.

What Are Temp Agencies?

Temp agencies, also known as staffing agencies, connect job seekers with businesses needing temporary, seasonal, or temp-to-hire employees.

Some agencies serve a broad range of industries, while others specialize in specific fields.

How Do Temp Agencies Work?

Temp agencies manage all aspects of the employment process typically handled by a company’s internal human resources department. Their responsibilities include:

• Hiring

• Onboarding

• Termination

• Work scheduling

• Compensation and benefits

• Addressing employee concerns

• Tax management

Temporary workers are considered contractors for the temp agency, meaning the client company does not provide benefits or compensation directly. Any issues regarding termination or disciplinary actions must be addressed through the agency.

Typically, a contract between the temp agency and the client outlines the number of workers needed and their hourly rate. For instance, if a temp agency supplies ten workers at $25/hour, they may retain $10 for their services, distributing the remaining $15 to each worker.

Pros and Cons of Using a Temp Agency

While temp agencies offer numerous benefits, they may not suit every job seeker. It’s essential to consider the pros and cons before engaging with a temp agency.

Key advantages include:

• Rapid employment. Many temporary workers choose agencies to alleviate the burden of job searching. Although interviews with the agency are necessary, you avoid the tedious process of applying to multiple companies without feedback.

• Flexible scheduling. Direct-hire positions often have limited schedules, but temp agencies provide access to a variety of roles across different companies, increasing the chances of finding a suitable match for your availability.

• Temp-to-hire opportunities. Client companies frequently convert successful temporary workers into permanent employees, offering a pathway into organizations that might otherwise overlook you.

Key disadvantages include:

• Wage sharing. Temp agencies typically take a cut of your hourly wage, which can be around 30% or more.

• Job instability. As a contractor, you can be terminated at any time without the same protections as a full-time employee.

• Perceived career limitations. While some find permanent roles through temp work, others may struggle with the stigma attached to temporary positions, which can impact future job applications.

The Best Temp Agencies of 2026

With numerous temp agencies available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Employment is a crucial aspect of life, so selecting a staffing firm that aligns with your needs is vital.

We have identified the top temp agencies of 2026 based on several criteria:

• Speed and efficiency. Agencies should be able to quickly match you with jobs that fit your skills, ensuring you receive timely pay.

• Compensation. The amount of your hourly wage that is paid directly to you can vary significantly between agencies, with higher rates generally preferred.

• Industry specialization. We’ve highlighted temp agencies that are known for being particularly worker-friendly in specific sectors, aiming for broad relevance.

• Reputation. The agencies listed are recognized for treating workers fairly and have received numerous positive reviews, enhancing your career prospects.

Here are the best temp agencies of 2026:

1. Randstad. Randstad is the world’s largest staffing agency, with a presence in over 38 countries. It recruits for various temporary roles across 12 industries, including:

   • Engineering

   • Human resources

   • Marketing

   • Legal

   • Call centers

   • Non-clinical healthcare

   Randstad is known for offering excellent compensation, benefits, and flexible hours, leveraging its size to negotiate favorable contracts for both clients and workers.

2. Kelly Staffing. Established in 1946, Kelly Staffing operates in all 50 states and 30 countries, offering temporary positions in education, manufacturing, and clinical science.

   Compensation levels may vary but are generally comparable to Randstad’s offerings. Kelly Staffing provides extensive training resources, helping workers advance their skills and career opportunities.

3. Adecco. As the second-largest staffing agency globally, Adecco has 450 offices in 60 countries. Their focus on rapid placement means many applicants secure jobs within hours, making it a reliable choice for immediate income.

   Adecco is recognized for competitive compensation and flexible scheduling, with opportunities spanning creative fields, finance, hospitality, manufacturing, retail, and transportation.

4. TEKsystems. Renowned for IT and tech staffing, TEKsystems assists over 80,000 job seekers annually in specialized fields like healthcare IT and artificial intelligence.

   With a strong focus on matching candidates with company values and goals, many TEKsystems positions are temp-to-hire, allowing top performers to transition into permanent roles.

5. Aquent. Aquent specializes in placing creative and marketing professionals with leading companies, operating in seven countries and 26 U.S. cities.

   Known for its advanced matching system that utilizes machine learning, Aquent connects workers with high-profile projects at Fortune 500 companies, providing excellent career advancement opportunities.

6. AMN Healthcare. AMN Healthcare is a premier staffing agency for healthcare-related roles, operating in all 50 states and providing temp positions in urgent care, physician roles, travel nursing, allied health, and retail clinic positions.

   With a focus on prestigious medical centers, AMN Healthcare positions are often well-compensated and provide valuable experience, although candidates must pass a rigorous screening process.

In conclusion, temp agencies can be an effective resource for job seekers looking for quick employment opportunities or pathways to permanent positions. By understanding how these agencies operate and considering the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about utilizing their services. Explore the best temp agencies of 2026 to find the right match for your career goals.

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.