What is the notice period for temporary workers? (2023)

Do temporary employees need to give 2 weeks notice?

In California, there is generally no requirement that you give your employer give two weeks notice, or any notice for that matter, before quitting or terminating a job. This is because California is an “at-will“ employment state. let you go at any time.

Give Proper Notice

This two-week window gives your employer an adequate amount of time to find a suitable replacement for your position while providing training to those that may need to step up in your place.

Referring back to the DOL's definition of a temporary employee, a period of temporary employment should last no longer than one year and have a clearly specified end date. Federal law also dictates that you cannot hire the same temp employee for more than two consecutive years.

No state or federal law requires you to notify your boss two weeks before leaving your job. If you're an at-will employee, you can leave at any time, and provide as much or as little notice as you'd like. That said, there are still good reasons to provide at least two weeks' notice if you can.

It is important to remember that, as the name says, the job is temporary, and you should not feel obligated to stay if you are offered a new job somewhere else or if it isn't the right fit for you. If you follow the guidelines of your contract, you can gracefully give notice and move on to your next opportunity.

Despite work etiquette and standards, no laws require employees to give any notice whatsoever – let alone two weeks – before quitting. While breached contracts may impact compensation or trigger a lawsuit, there aren't any legal protections for employers when employees decide to leave.

Fixed-term contract notice period for employees

If you've worked for an employer for a period of one month or more, you must give at least one week's notice.

If you don't give proper notice, you will be in breach of contract and it is possible for your employer to sue you for damages. An example of this would be if they had to pay extra to get a temp to cover your work.

Be upfront and clear on your expectations for the temporary employee. Put the end date in writing so there is no confusion. Do not terminate a temporary employee for any reason you would not terminate a traditional employee. You must still abide by the law.

How long is a temporary position usually?

A temp job is just that—temporary—and generally for a pre-determined time at the time of hire. Usually 3, 6, 9 or 12 months, but it can really vary depending on the organization's needs. If someone does well in a temp job, it is possible for them to be hired full time.

The temporary workforce goes by many names: temps, contract workers, consultants, freelancers, seasonal workers and interns. But whatever they're called, they give companies flexibility when permanent employees go out on leave, business fluctuates and during times of increased short-term or seasonal needs.

But for the most part, you and your employer are free to sever working ties anytime. So despite what you might hear, in most situations, there's nothing illegal about giving only one week's notice.

Resignation Email Sample

I apologize for not being able to provide two weeks' notice, but unfortunately it will be necessary for me to leave right away. Thank you so much for the time I've spent at this job. McTeague Enterprises continues to be an excellent and supportive company, and I regret that I need to move on.

No, an employer cannot deny two weeks' notice.

That depends on your specific situation. If your employer denies your notice by saying that you cannot leave, you simply should just continue working for those two weeks, as you intended. After those two weeks, you just leave the company and do not go back.

But for the most part, you and your employer are free to sever working ties anytime. So despite what you might hear, in most situations, there's nothing illegal about giving only one week's notice.

The best thing to do is to call your Staffing Manager as soon as you know and then follow up with an email to confirm your conversation. This gives the agency time to find a replacement for you and notify the company of your need to leave.

Depending on the circumstances of your resignation, the thought of staying another moment might be too much, but if you do just walk out, you are likely to be in breach of your contract. The worst-case scenario then is that the company could decide to sue you and take you to court.

Can I leave my job immediately?

If you decide to leave your work your employer cannot physically stop, you. However, leaving without working your notice may leave you in breach of your employment contract. Your employer can take you to court if your early leave causes the company to suffer a financial loss.

It is unethical to do that; whether it is illegal only those that know the law can comment. If you have not signed any contract and are prepared to forego the pay for the time worked, quit and go. But be prepared for any backlash.

Once you have accepted the offer given by your present employer, you must honor the same. Working with one day or two or one month does not make any difference to get the relieving from the services of your current employer.