Construction Jobs in the Gig Economy

The gig economy is the workforce of freelance or independent contractors who work by the project (or gig). People in many different industries work this way — for example, the construction worker, electrician or plumber who goes from building project to building project and subcontracts under a general contractor. Working by the project has been routine in some industries. In fact, “musicians playing gigs” has been familiar language for many years. But now other workers are getting gigs too, and the gig economy is becoming more and more prevalent in other industries as well, such as computer technology, graphic design, freelance writing, along with Uber and Lyft driving.

According to CNN Money, the gig economy is growing at a fast rate. In 2017, researchers estimate 34% of the workforce makes up the gig economy. However, by 2020, they predict the gig economy will be 43% of the workforce.

What Does the Gig Economy Mean for Recruitment Agencies?

The reasons recruitment agencies exist are to meet the businesses’ production needs based on supply and demand. They fulfill a staffing service demand for industries as production ebbs and flows. While the gig economy continues to grow, our staffing professionals at Power Labor learn how to shift gears and make the connections between workers and contractors so projects get staffed in a timely manner. Just as a construction worker can roll out his set of tools and get to work, our recruiters bring up databases of current projects and contractors looking for specific skill sets and on-the-job experience. We know which skilled laborers are looking for work and can make the right connections and find the right fit.