You’ve started a new temp job, and you’re hitting the ground running. You want to make the best impression possible, but you just found out you need to take a day off. Whatever the reason, is it appropriate for a temporary worker to be asking for a day off on a new job?

The answer is: It depends.

In terms of the law, temporary workers are entitled to many of the same rights as full-time staff. For instance, employment laws give you the right to take unpaid time off with a valid excuse even if you are a temporary worker. Yet, when it comes to those rights in the particular company you’re working for, it depends on their policy.

If, however, you’re not new to the job and have been on it for a while, then what you’re eligible for might be different. For instance, under the Family and Medical Leave Act, all employers must provide at least 12 weeks of unpaid job protection for employees, including temporary workers, who need time off due to maternity leave or a serious health issue.

To receive this benefit, you must have worked for at least 1250 hours during the course of the year, and the organization that employs you – whether it’s one of the local Houston temp staffing agencies or the company itself – must employ at least 50 people.

If you’re not sure what the policy is with your employer, then ask the HR department. If you’ve been working with one of Houston’s temp staffing agencies, then reach out to your contact there.

However, if this is a new position, just make sure you truly need to take the day off, such as if there’s a family emergency. If you’re taking it off for a frivolous reason or simply want to take a vacation as a temp, it’s not going to reflect well on you during those first few days and weeks on any new job.

Looking for temp jobs in Houston near you?

Look no further than Murray Resources. As one of the Houston area’s leading temporary employment agencies, we work with companies of all sizes in a range of diverse fields and can connect you with assignments that are an ideal fit for you. Simply search our temp jobs or contact us today to get started.