The hospitality industry thrives on flexibility—seasonal rushes, last-minute events, and fluctuating demand require a workforce that can scale up quickly. That’s where hospitality temp agencies come in. These agencies connect hotels, restaurants, event venues, and catering companies with skilled temporary workers, ensuring smooth operations even during peak times.
If you’re a business looking for reliable short-term staff or a worker seeking flexible gigs, here’s a breakdown of the top hospitality temp agencies and how they can help.
1. What Are Hospitality Temp Agencies?
Hospitality temp agencies specialize in providing temporary workers for roles like:
- Hotel staff (front desk agents, housekeepers, concierge)
- Restaurant workers (servers, bartenders, line cooks)
- Event staff (catering servers, banquet staff, event coordinators)
- Seasonal workers (holiday resorts, cruise ships, festivals)
These agencies handle hiring, vetting, and payroll, making it easier for businesses to fill gaps without long-term commitments.
2. Top Hospitality Temp Agencies in 2024
a. Aquent Hospitality
- Specializes in hotels, resorts, and luxury venues
- Provides trained temp staff for front-of-house and back-of-house roles
- Known for high-end clientele and rigorous screening
b. Instawork
- On-demand staffing app for restaurants and events
- Workers available within hours for last-minute needs
- Popular in major U.S. cities (NYC, LA, Chicago)
c. Harri
- Focuses on restaurants and quick-service businesses
- Offers shift-filling tech + temp staffing solutions
- Strong in urban markets with high turnover
d. Poached Staffing
- Specializes in food service & catering gigs
- Workers can browse and claim shifts instantly
- Popular for event staffing and pop-up restaurants
e. The Change Group (TCG)
- Luxury hospitality & corporate events
- Provides trained temps for high-profile venues
- Operates in the U.S. and Europe
3. Benefits of Using a Hospitality Temp Agency
For Employers:
✔ Fast hiring – Fill shifts in days (or hours)
✔ No long-term commitments – Scale up or down as needed
✔ Pre-screened talent – Agencies verify skills and experience
✔ Reduced admin work – No need to handle payroll or taxes for temps
For Workers:
✔ Flexible schedules – Choose shifts that fit your availability
✔ Varied opportunities – Work at hotels, events, or restaurants
✔ No long-term contracts – Great for students or side gigs
✔ Weekly pay – Many agencies offer instant pay options
4. How to Choose the Right Temp Agency
- Industry specialization (hotels vs. restaurants vs. events)
- Location coverage (local or national?)
- Worker reviews (check Glassdoor or Indeed for feedback)
- Pay rates & benefits (some agencies offer bonuses or healthcare)
Final Thoughts
Hospitality temp agencies are a game-changer for businesses needing quick, reliable staff and workers seeking flexible gigs. Whether you’re managing a hotel during tourist season or a bartender looking for extra shifts, the right agency can connect you with the best opportunities.
Have you used a hospitality temp agency before? Share your experience in the comments!