FAQs for candidates and workers

What is the TSS?

The Temporary Staffing Service (TSS) provides temporary administrative and clerical work opportunities across the University of Bristol. You can apply to join the TSS to hear about an array of temporary full time and part time assignments that match your skills and experience.

Why should I join the TSS?

The TSS can offer you excellent opportunities to work at the University of Bristol in different areas on a range of temporary assignments. Joining the TSS will give you a chance to join an organisation with an exciting and thriving work environment, allowing you to develop your skills and experience.

How does it work?

You will need to apply to register with the TSS and if successful you will join our pool. This means that as assignments come up that match your skills, experience and indicated availability we will let you know to see whether you’re interested. Find out more about joining the TSS.

Am I guaranteed work through the TSS if I register?

Registering with the TSS does not guarantee that you will be offered temporary assignments, but we will keep in contact with you to make sure we have up to date details on your skills and availability to ensure we have the best possible chance of matching you to an assignment.

I am a current University of Bristol student, can I register?

We welcome applications from current University of Bristol students to join our pool. Working through the TSS is an excellent way to build your skills and experience around your studies. Find out more about joining the TSS.

Why haven't I been placed on an assignment?

Getting placed on an assignment will depend whether our vacancies match your skills and experience and we can’t guarantee that something will come up. You can increase your chances of getting matched by keeping the TSS team up to date on any new skills/experience and any changes to your availability so keep in touch!

Am I able to apply for open-ended and fixed term jobs at the University?

Yes! Once you are fully registered you will be able to login to view and apply for open-ended and fixed term roles online

Getting paid is simple – you will need to complete and submit a timesheet within MyERP in time for approval by the assignment manager by the last working day of the month. 

If you have been working and your timesheet is submitted and approved on time payment is made in arrears directly to your bank account on the 26th of the month (or the last working day beforehand if 26th falls on a weekend or bank holiday).

Do I get holiday pay?

Yes, you will accrue holiday pay which will be calculated using the basic rate of pay for each assignment. You are entitled to the equivalent of 38 days holiday per annum, calculated on a pro-rata basis dependent on the hours you actually work. Your 38 day entitlement includes Bank Holidays (8 working days) and Closure Days (7 working days). 

Am I entitled to sick pay?

You may be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) if you meet the statutory criteria, but you will have no entitlement under any University sickness pay scheme.

Am I entitled to maternity pay?

You may be entitled to statutory maternity leave, and subject to meeting the qualifying criteria, Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP). If you are not entitled to receive SMP, you may be able to claim Maternity Allowance.

Am I entitled to paternity pay?

If your partner is pregnant, you may be entitled to Statutory Paternity Pay, providing you meet the qualifying criteria.

Can I join the TSS if I am a current member of staff on an open-ended or fixed term contract?

If you are on a full time contract (35-hour week) you are not able to register with the TSS for additional work. If you are currently working part time (working under 35 hours per week) you are able to submit an application to register for additional work up to a maximum of 35 hours per week.

What is the hourly pay rate for temporary assignments?

Our pay rates vary dependent on the type of duties involved in an assignment and the level of work. We will discuss this with you in more detail when you register with us. Please indicate the minimum hourly rate you are looking for on your application form to give us an idea of the types of assignments you would be interested in.

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