How do I post a shift and how fast can it be filled?
Post a shift in ~60 seconds using our template. Most shifts are filled the same day—often within the first hour. You’ll set the position, hourly rate, start/end times, location, a clear job description, and any dress code requirements.
Are Standby workers W-2 or 1099?
Workers on Standby are W-2 employees of Standby Labor Force, LLC. We handle payroll, tax withholdings, workers’ comp coverage, and compliance—so you’re not exposed to 1099 misclassification risk.
Are workers vetted and insured?
Yes. Standby Pros are vetted for experience and only see/claim certain shifts if they’ve worked that role before. Workers’ comp coverage is provided by Standby as the employer of record. You can require background checks for specific shifts when needed.
What roles can I staff?
Common BOH roles include line cook, prep, and dishwasher. FOH roles like server, food runner, busser, and catering support are also available—just specify in the shift details.
How does check-in and check-out work?
Your manager (or designated staff) checks workers in and out with a single tap in our mobile or desktop app. We payroll the hours your team confirms—ensuring payment matches approved time.
How does pricing work?
You set the hourly rate—no minimums beyond applicable minimum wage and no hour commitments. We invoice for: (1) worker compensation (gross wages) and (2) a Service Cost of 38%, which covers employer tax contributions, insurance, and our Platform Fee. For context, if the worker were on your payroll, you’d typically already pay ~15% in employer taxes and insurance alone.
When do we pay Standby?
We run payroll weekly on Mondays. Your business bank account on file is auto-debited each Monday for shifts worked in the prior week.
Can we require background checks?
Yes. Enable a background-check requirement so only workers with a “Clear Background Check” badge (via our partner Checkr) can claim your shift. A per-worker fee applies the first time they work for your org after passing.
Can we favorite workers and build a go-to team?
Absolutely. Favorite standout Pros so future shifts are prioritized to the same people. They’ll learn your stations and standards, reducing ramp time every booking.
What if a worker cancels or no-shows?
Our system prevents workers with a history of last-minute cancellations or no-shows from signing up for shifts. If a no-show occurs, nearby available Pros are automatically notified to backfill ASAP.
Is there a minimum shift length or lead time?
There’s no hard minimum, but we recommend at least 4 hours for kitchen roles and as much lead time as possible to attract top workers. Same-day coverage is supported when available.
Can we hire a Standby worker full-time?
Yes. If a worker has completed fewer than 520 hours (about 13 weeks full-time) with your team, a one-time direct hire fee of $4,000 applies. After 520 hours, the fee is waived, and you’re free to bring that worker onto your payroll directly.
If you’d like to keep the same worker on your team without taking on payroll, insurance, and admin, our Dedicated Plan offers a reduced Service Cost when you commit to 30+ hours per week for that worker—giving you consistent staffing at a lower rate.
How do ratings and badges affect who can claim shifts?
You can set requirements (e.g., 4-star average, specific badges). Only workers who meet your criteria will be able to claim those shifts.
Who do we contact for help?
For app or billing questions, email
support@standbyjobs.com. For on-site issues (safety, urgent replacements), have a manager address the situation immediately and post an updated shift so we can reassign quickly.
