Careers and pay
Contractor
A self-employed person hired for a set period or project rather than as an employee, usually paid a day rate. A freelancer is much the same, usually working for several clients at once.
A plain-English explanation of how this usually works in the UK, not legal advice. Rules change, so check your own situation. For free, impartial advice on work rights, try Acas. Disclaimer.
You'll hear it as
We can't get headcount, but we can bring in a contractor for six months.
Why it matters to you.
Contractors are often how work gets done when there's no headcount. For you, contracting trades a steady salary and benefits for a higher day rate and your own risk.
Also called Freelancer.
Related terms.
Videos.
Mentioned in 2 videos, plus more on Careers & hiring.