Working with a Recruitment Agency in Manufacturing: What to Expect

A large proportion of manufacturing workers start through recruitment agencies. Whether you are looking for temporary, temp-to-perm, or permanent work, understanding how agencies operate helps you get the most out of the relationship.

The Registration Process

When you register with an agency like Titan Recruitment, expect:

1. Initial contact — phone call or walk-in. You discuss your experience, availability, and what you are looking for
2. ID and right-to-work checks — you will need a passport or birth certificate plus National Insurance number, and proof of address
3. Skills assessment — some agencies test basic numeracy, literacy, or manual dexterity
4. Health questionnaire — to ensure roles are suitable for you
5. Reference checks — most agencies want 2 references, though they may place you before these are returned
6. Compliance paperwork — contracts, tax forms (P46), bank details

How Quickly Can I Start?

This varies, but a realistic timeline:

• Same day — possible if the agency has an urgent vacancy and your documents are in order
• Within a week — typical for most placements
• 2-4 weeks — if references or specific training are required

The AWR 12-Week Rule

The Agency Workers Regulations (AWR) give you important rights after 12 weeks in the same role with the same client:

• Equal pay to permanent staff doing the same work
• Equal access to facilities (canteen, car park, childcare)
• Information about permanent vacancies

From day one, you are entitled to access shared facilities (toilets, canteen, car park) and information about permanent vacancies.

Temp-to-Perm

Many manufacturing clients use agency work as an extended trial period. After 12 to 16 weeks, reliable workers are often offered permanent contracts. This is a genuine pathway — not just a sales pitch. At Titan Recruitment, a significant percentage of our manufacturing placements convert to permanent roles.

Pay and Holiday

• Pay: weekly or fortnightly, usually by BACS transfer. Your hourly rate is agreed at the start
• Holiday: you accrue holiday at 12.07% of hours worked. This may be paid as you go (rolled up) or accrued for you to book
• Pension: auto-enrolment applies after the qualifying period
• Sick pay: SSP applies after the qualifying period

Getting the Best from Your Agency

• Be honest about your experience and availability
• Pick up the phone — agencies prioritise candidates who are responsive
• If a placement is not right, tell your consultant rather than just not turning up
• Ask about training opportunities — some agencies offer funded forklift or CPC training
• Build a track record of reliability — it is your most valuable asset