Intro:
The world of independent contracting has expanded, especially for delivery professionals. Although it’s not the primary model for UPS, the company occasionally hires independent contractors.
UPS warehouse workers and drivers earn $18 an hour on average. Contractors who work for the company during the Holidays and busy seasons can accrue extra hours, bumping up their potential weekly and monthly stipends.
The company has distribution centers and locations throughout the United States. Therefore, finding an opportunity to work in most cities and towns is possible.
Professionals estimate that the company has 5,300 locations entering 2023. California has 856 of those locations or about 16%. Thus, California residents looking for independent contracting opportunities have a good chance of finding one.
Browsing the UPS website is an excellent way for independent contractors to find the right opportunities. Speaking with current workers is another strategy.
What Is an Independent Contractor for UPS?
An independent contractor for UPS is a professional who receives a 1099 to file their taxes instead of a W-2. Independent contractors fulfill duties and receive payment in return for their services.
However, contractors do not receive benefits. Sometimes, contractors can pick their schedules based on what’s available and in demand. For example, contractors might have the opportunity to pick up graveyard shift hours.
Then, contract delivery drivers might have the opportunity to pick from available delivery routes and hours.
Find out more about becoming an independent contractor for UPS.
Look in the Right Places
To find any work opportunity, looking for it in the right place is essential. In this case, start with the source.
UPS Website
The UPS website remains a viable source for finding work opportunities for potential employees and independent contractors.
Users can narrow their searchers by entering pertinent information, such as:
- Job title
- Skill
- Category
- City and state
- Zip code
Then, the search parameters filter through what’s available and return a list of opportunities.
The website encourages users to broaden their searches when the parameters do not return several results.
In addition, users can sign up for job alerts. The alerts allow users to be among the first to discover new opportunities.
To receive alerts, fill out the online form. The form asks for basic information, such as:
- Contact information
- Areas of interest
- Location
Therefore, start the search by exploring the website.
Online Job Boards
Another online option is to browse job boards. Although UPS handles hiring in-house, it also outsources some hiring duties to third parties.
Thus, feel free to browse online job boards. Individuals who don’t know what job boards to trust can run a standard online search on their favorite search engines.
Then, the search engine results will show the most relevant information, which can lead users in the right direction.
Find a Referral
Another way to find UPS opportunities is to find a referral. UPS employs just over 500k individuals.
With some digging around, independent contractors will find a family member, friend, or reliable colleague who works at the company or intimately knows someone who does.
Referrals become more reliable when the individual can set up an interview or information session.
Become a Viable Candidate
Typical UPS opportunities are warehouse-based or delivery. Therefore, candidates should ensure that their resumes sell them as viable candidates for either.
Have the Right Training
On day one, independent contractors must hit the ground for every new project they accept. It’s not different for a client such as UPS.
Since working for the delivery company is labor-intensive, individuals seeking opportunities must have the proper training.
The training includes safety knowledge that prevents accidents. Individuals who know how to operate machinery increase their chances of gaining work and better pay.
Have the Right Credentials
Individuals who obtain the proper training also have the opportunity to earn the right credentials.
In 2023, individuals can earn their credentials by attending courses at several community colleges. At the end of the programs, students can earn certifications that prove they have picked up skills required by the opportunity.
Credentials also indicate an individual’s likelihood of understanding assignments, following directions, and avoiding workplace accidents.
Obtain the Right Experience
Independent contractors benefit from picking up experience in their chosen fields. Individuals entering the area as entry-level professionals benefit from earning certifications at trade schools.
Then, individuals can leverage the certification as proof that they can become great contractors.
Contractors who have experience benefit from keeping their driving and safety records clean. Then, they can use their records as leverage and proof of experience.
Contracting experiences can lead to permanent employment opportunities for those interested in staying aboard.
It can also put contractors interested in seasonal work at the top of the list when it becomes available.
Conclusion
Becoming an independent contractor for UPS offers several perks and attractive pay. To find the right opportunities, keep an eye on job boards and ensure that you maintain solid credentials.
