Understanding Temporary Workers’ Rights in New Jersey Employment Law

Temporary workers play a crucial role in the modern workforce. From filling short-term vacancies to managing seasonal surges, employers across New Jersey depend on temps to keep operations running. However, these workers are often more vulnerable to mistreatment and legal oversights compared to full-time employees. At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we believe it’s essential to shed light on the employment rights of temporary workers and ensure they receive the same respect and protection under the law.

What Is a Temporary Worker?

A temporary worker, often referred to as a temp, is someone hired for a limited period to fulfill specific work demands. They may be brought in directly by an employer or through a staffing agency. Regardless of how they are hired, temporary workers in New Jersey are entitled to fundamental workplace rights, and employers are not allowed to discriminate or retaliate against them for asserting those rights.

Legal Protections for Temporary Employees

Despite the transient nature of their positions, temporary workers in New Jersey are protected by both state and federal employment laws. This includes protection against:

• Discrimination: Temps cannot be treated unfairly based on race, gender, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.
• Sexual Harassment: Temporary employees are entitled to a workplace free of harassment and unwanted sexual advances.
• Wage Violations: Temps must be paid at least the minimum wage, and overtime must be compensated according to law.
• Retaliation: It is illegal for an employer or staffing agency to retaliate against a temporary worker for filing a complaint or participating in an investigation.

Rights Under the New Jersey Temporary Workers Bill of Rights

New Jersey has taken steps to further safeguard temp workers through the “Temporary Workers Bill of Rights,” which was enacted to ensure that staffing agencies and employers treat temporary laborers fairly. Key provisions include:

• Equal Pay: Temporary workers must receive equal pay for equal work when compared to permanent employees doing the same job.
• Assignment Transparency: Staffing agencies must provide written notice of the terms of an assignment, including work location, pay rate, and job description.
• Transportation Charges: The law prohibits staffing agencies from charging excessive transportation fees.
• Wage Notice: Temps must be notified of their wages in writing before starting work.

Discrimination and Hostile Work Environments

Temporary workers are sometimes placed in unfamiliar work environments where they may be subjected to discrimination or harassment. Employers may mistakenly believe that because these workers are not permanent, they are less likely to speak out. However, the law protects all workers—regardless of how long they’re on the job. If a temp is working in a hostile environment or has been subjected to unequal treatment, they have the right to take legal action.

Staffing Agencies and Employer Responsibility

Both staffing agencies and the employers where temporary workers are assigned may be held legally responsible for workplace violations. Joint liability ensures that temp workers are not caught in a legal grey area when asserting their rights. This is a crucial point—especially in cases involving wage theft, discrimination, or wrongful termination.

Filing a Legal Claim as a Temporary Worker

If you’re a temporary employee in New Jersey who believes your rights have been violated, it’s important to act quickly. Employment laws set strict deadlines—called statutes of limitations—within which you must file a claim. For example, most discrimination claims must be filed within 180 days with the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights or within 300 days with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Gathering documentation, such as assignment letters, time cards, pay stubs, emails, or witness contact information, can significantly strengthen your case. A skilled employment lawyer can help evaluate your situation, explain your options, and guide you through the next steps.

How NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC Can Help

At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we are committed to protecting the rights of all workers—temporary or permanent. Our legal team understands the unique challenges faced by temp employees and has the experience needed to pursue justice on their behalf. Whether you’ve experienced wage theft, harassment, or discrimination, we can help you understand your legal rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

To learn more about how we advocate for temporary workers’ rights, contact our office for a consultation. Let our experienced team at NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC be your voice in the legal system.

Contact NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC

Address:
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland, NJ 07068

Phone:
(973) 358-7027

About NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC:
Our Employment Lawyers represent individuals and employees throughout the state of New Jersey. We handle cases in both State and Federal Court involving allegations of discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, misclassification of independent contractors, whistleblower violations, pregnancy leave, and all other lawsuits involving NJ Employment laws. NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC aims to be the first call you make when presented with a legal issue. If we can’t handle your matter, we’ll refer you to someone who can ensure the best legal representation.