Types of work explained

Not sure whether to look for a temporary, contract or permanent role? Each type works differently - how long you'd be in work, how much flexibility you'd have, and how you'd be paid. This page explains the three main types so you can go into your job search knowing what to expect, and have a more useful conversation with your Rullion consultant when the time comes.

At a glance

blue search icon

Temporary work

Short or variable assignments, often with a quick start. You're employed by Rullion and paid through PAYE. Good if you want flexibility or to try different organisations.

pink search icon

Contract work

Fixed-term or project-based roles. You work via an umbrella company or your own limited company. Good if you have specialist skills and want to work across different clients.

yellow timer icon

Permanent work

An ongoing role with the hiring organisation. You're on their payroll from day one. Good if you want stability and a long-term career path.

Temporary work

Temporary roles can range from a few days to several months. They suit people who want to get into work quickly, gain experience across different organisations, or keep their options open. Temporary work might be right for you if: You want to get into work quickly Flexibility matters more to you than a fixed role You want to try different organisations or sectors before committing You're returning to work and want to ease back in gradually You're fitting work around other commitments

In a temporary role through Rullion, you're paid through Rullion's payroll under Pay As You Earn (PAYE). Income Tax and National Insurance contributions (NICs) are deducted automatically before you're paid. There's no tax administration for you to manage.

Payment flow: Client → Rullion → You (PAYE payroll)

Temporary assignments finish at the agreed time, or when the client's requirement ends. Your Rullion consultant can support you in finding your next opportunity as the end date approaches.

Search our temporary jobs

Contract work

Contract roles are tied to a specific project, period or business need, and typically carry a defined end date that may be extended. Contractors often work across different organisations over their career, building specialist expertise along the way. Contract work might be right for you if: You have specialist skills and want to develop them across different clients You prefer project-based work over an open-ended permanent role You're comfortable planning your next move when a contract ends You want to work across a variety of sectors or organisations You're interested in the potentially higher earnings contracting can offer

As a contractor, there are two main payment arrangements. Which applies to you will depend on your circumstances and, sometimes, the requirements of the specific role or client. Your Rullion consultant will confirm which arrangement applies before you accept a role.

You become an employee of an umbrella company, which handles your pay and tax deductions. Rullion continues to manage your assignment. Income Tax and National Insurance contributions are deducted before you're paid. This arrangement is typically used where the role is inside IR35, or where the client specifically requires it.

Learn more

You operate through your own limited company, which provides services to Rullion on behalf of the client. You're responsible for your own tax and financial administration. This option applies where the role is outside IR35.

Learn more

Most contract roles have an agreed end date. Extensions are possible if the client's project continues. Your consultant can help you find your next contract as the end date approaches.

Job search

Permanent work

Permanent roles are ongoing positions directly with the hiring organisation. Rullion's role is to find the right match. Once you're placed, you become an employee of that organisation on their employment contract and terms. Permanent work might be right for you if: You want job security and a stable income You're looking to build a long-term career within one organisation You want access to employee benefits, development opportunities and progression You value being part of a team and a working culture You're looking for a career step rather than your next assignment

Once placed, your salary and benefits are set by the hiring organisation. You're paid directly by your employer on their payroll. Rullion is not involved in your pay once you're placed.

You become a permanent employee of the organisation. Your relationship with them is direct from that point. If you're ever looking for your next move in the future, your Rullion consultant will be there to help.

Search our permanent roles
FAQs

Common questions

Yes. There's no restriction on the type of work you take on through Rullion. Some people start with temporary work while they find their feet, then move into contracting or a permanent role over time. Speak to your consultant about what you're looking for and they'll help you find the right opportunities.

IR35 (also called the off-payroll working rules) is an HMRC framework that determines whether a contractor should be taxed in a similar way to an employee. If a role is 'inside IR35', PAYE-style deductions apply even if you operate through a limited company — in practice, this usually means working through an umbrella company instead. Rullion will confirm the IR35 status of a role before you accept it.

Rullion maintains an approved supplier list (PSL) of umbrella companies that have been reviewed and vetted. You'll need to choose from providers on that list. If an umbrella arrangement applies to your role, talk to your consultant or review our preferred suppliers list.

Approved umbrella suppliers

A Key Information Document is designed to give you clear examples of what a working arrangement and payment would look like, whether you're engaged directly through Rullion or via one of our approved umbrella suppliers. More details can be found on our Key Information Documents page.

Key Information Documents

Yes. Many people move between temporary, contract and permanent work at different stages of their career. What suits you now may not suit you in a few years. Speak to your Rullion consultant and they can help you think through your options.

In most cases, the role itself makes the decision, job listings are usually advertised as temporary, contract or permanent, so the type is set by the employer. If you're not sure what suits you at this stage, talking to a consultant before you apply is a good place to start.

View our current jobs

Ready to find your next role?

Browse current vacancies or speak to a Rullion consultant about what you're looking for.