Uber Works launches in Chicago to connect temp workers to businesses

Uber has announced the availability of Uber Works in Chicago for workers looking for temporary employment and businesses seeking labour for a limited period. Uber says that its new product is trying to address the rigid scheduling regime by staffing agencies, and the lack of information they provide about where workers can pick up shifts and how much they can expect to earn. Uber also hopes to aid businesses that can’t get the staff in at peak times or have to deal with missed shifts and high turnover.

With Uber Works, those looking for temporary employment will be able to get detailed information about the work they want to take on, how much it pays, the job’s location, the skills required, and the required clothing. Uber Works also aims to reduce the stress around clocking in and out by letting you do it from within the app. Uber also promises that workers will be paid in a timely fashion.

While Uber criticised the job-seeking process for those looking for temporary work, the firm did say that it will be partnering with staffing agencies. In its announcement, it said:

“To do things right, we believe we need to take a partnership approach. That’s why Uber Works has partnered with staffing agencies, including TrueBlue, who employ, pay and handle worker benefits. Uber Works is also committed to deliver services that support skill up-leveling and promote work re-entry and we are partnering with various organizations that support workers in their employment journey. … Uber Works is also connecting with community and faith-based organizations to examine how we can leverage the Uber Works platform to help with workforce reentry.”

Uber Works has been under development in the firm’s business incubator; it wanted to find new ways that it could use its marketplace expertise to “help solve pain points” when it comes to connecting workers and employers. Hopefully, the product will help make the job hunting process a bit smoother for those that rely on temporary jobs.