Hello, everyone!
I recently interviewed for a position titled Machine Learning Data Annotation. During the interview, I was told that the position is offered as a contract job. I was also told that the pay rate is $24/hr, but that it would “look more like $20/hr after taxes.” Apparently the $20/hr would be direct deposited to me each week.
This is what I found about contract jobs with a quick Google search:
“On a contract job, an employee works for a staffing firm on a W-2 basis under the direction of the client company for a predetermined amount of time to work on specific projects. The staffing agency pays the contract worker and takes out their taxes”
The source of my confusion is why I wouldn't simply be paid $24/hr, and then see the taxes be removed each paycheck? Why is it seemingly automatically taken from me? Will I ever see it again? Will I need to pay taxes on the direct deposit I'm given, or not since I'm already allegedly being taxed?
I'm honestly just worried that I'm being taken advantage of, or lied to, to subtlely pay me less. I was sent an email with details about the position. The email states $20/hr. I don't want to sign anything until I hear from my recruiters. I hope they can help me on Monday.
This is my first time being offered a contract position, so anything with knowledge to share would be much appreciated 🙂
️