Although not suited to everyone, Pharma contract roles do have a raft of benefits for those looking to work on a temporary or short-term basis. The recruitment process for contract roles is notoriously quicker than that of permanent recruitment due to its nature. Contract Pharma roles are typically required to ‘fill a gap’ within organisations, be it to temporarily replace a permanent member of staff or address an increased business need. This could be due to a new project or end-of-year rush, for example.
Working in a Pharma contract role will provide you with plenty of opportunities to work across a range of companies in your field and the opportunity to flexibly structure your working life while earning a competitive living. Many of those working in contract roles relish the flexibility to up-skill themselves on a continuous basis as they learn differing practise from company to company.
Working as a contractor or freelancer can offer a range of benefits, which can be especially appealing to individuals who value flexibility, autonomy, and diverse work experiences. Here are some key benefits that you might want to consider:
Flexibility: Contractors and freelancers often have more control over their work schedules. They can choose when and where to work, allowing for a better work-life balance and the ability to accommodate personal commitments.
Autonomy: Freelancers typically have the freedom to choose the projects they work on and the clients they work with. This autonomy can lead to a higher level of job satisfaction and a sense of ownership over one's work.
Diverse Projects: Working on a contract basis allows individuals to work on a variety of projects for different clients or companies. This can help in building a diverse portfolio and expanding skill sets in different areas.
Higher Earning Potential: Freelancers often have the potential to earn more than traditional employees, as they can set their own rates and take on multiple clients simultaneously. However, it's important to factor in expenses like taxes, healthcare, and retirement savings.
Specialisation: Freelancers can focus on their specific skills and expertise, allowing them to become specialists in their field. This specialisation can lead to a strong reputation and increased demand for their services.
Location Independence: Many freelance roles can be done remotely, allowing individuals to work from anywhere with an internet connection. This can be especially appealing for those who want to travel or live in different places.
Networking Opportunities: Freelancers often interact with a variety of clients and collaborators, which can lead to networking opportunities that may not have arisen in a traditional employment setting. These connections can lead to future work and collaborations.
Learning and Growth: As freelancers often take on different projects, they have the chance to continuously learn new skills and gain experience in various areas. This can contribute to personal and professional growth.
Tax Deductions: Freelancers can often deduct certain business-related expenses from their taxes, potentially reducing their tax liability.
Portfolio Building: Freelancers can curate a diverse portfolio showcasing their work, which can be a powerful tool when seeking new clients or employment opportunities.
Avoid Office Politics: Freelancers often have less exposure to office politics and corporate hierarchies, which can lead to a less stressful work environment.
Testing Entrepreneurial Ideas: Freelancing can be a stepping stone for individuals considering starting their own businesses. It allows them to test the waters of entrepreneurship without committing fully.
However, it's worth noting that freelancing also comes with its challenges, such as inconsistent income, lack of benefits like healthcare or retirement plans, and the need for self-discipline to manage deadlines and workload effectively. It's important to carefully consider your personal and financial situation before making the decision to work as a contractor or freelancer.
Visit our Pharma contract jobs page for all our current opportunities.
Upon expressing a desire to work with a Pharma contract role, our consultants will register you formally for work. This will include verifying your right to work, checking any industry qualifications and necessary security checks, and obtaining a reference history. From here we will keep you informed of any contract roles available that match your skillset. Should you decide a certain position is for you, we will send your CV immediately to the recruiting client. A telephone or face-to-face interview will follow and should you be successful, we’ll be able to get you in the role imminently or as required.
Once in your role, your consultant will be available throughout to ensure your contract is running smoothly. We will explain fully how the timesheet and payment process works and are more than happy and equipped for our candidates to manage their finances via an Umbrella or Limited company if this is preferable.
For more details on how Carrot Recruitment can help you, please contact Emily:
emily.goulding@carrotpharma.co.uk
