However, when companies use temporaries to supplement full-time personnel, the practice has been successfully attacked by unions on the grounds that bargaining unit employees are deprived of job opportunities and overtime.

As a part-time worker, you may be terminated for poor performance and are subject to the company's work rules and requirements like other workers. Your paycheck will reflect payroll deductions and taxes. All legal obligations owed by the company to its workforce, such as complying with safety (OSHA) rules and regulations, not making promises it does not intend to keep, and avoiding discriminatory acts, apply to you as well.

Tip: Negotiate the right to convert into a full-time position if your work skills are satisfactory or if the employer's needs or your needs change. Don't forget to discuss this with management where appropriate. Additionally, inquire if the employer will allow you and someone else to share a job that requires 40 or more hours of work per week. Some companies are offering job shares where circumstances warrant. The advantage of a job share is that these employees often obtain prorated shares of benefits normally available only to full-time workers. They also work flexible hours and have the opportunity to take time off during the workweek to meet family obligations, such as child care, or pursue other interests. Inquire if the employer has a job-share plan in effect if appropriate.

LEASED AND TEMPORARY EMPLOYEES

Leased and temporary employees work for the service firm supplying workers to the client company. Although they report directly to an employer, they receive their paychecks and benefits from the company leasing their services. Leased employees typically do not work at one job site for more than a fixed period (i.e., one year). Once a particular job is finished, they are then assigned to work at another company.

Counsel Comments: Although the Department of Labor reports that the use of temporary workers has surged 400% since 1982, statistics provided by USA Today reveal that temps earn an average 40% less per hour than full-time workers. Even though the vast majority (80%) work 35 hours a week, most do not have health benefits, pensions and life insurance and most temps are women. This has caused some commentators to point out that when you are a temp you are treated at a lower status despite the advantages of a flexible work schedule.