A contingent worker is a temporary or non-permanent employee hired for specific projects, seasonal work, or short-term business needs. This category includes freelancers, contractors, consultants, temporary staff, and gig workers. Unlike full-time employees, contingent workers usually do not receive long-term benefits such as paid leave or retirement plans from the hiring company. Businesses use contingent workers to gain flexibility, reduce labor costs, and quickly access specialized skills when needed for particular tasks or projects.