The benefits of using electronic freelancers over permanent staff

In the fast-paced world of engineering, staying agile is crucial. When it comes to hiring, deciding between permanent staff and electronic freelancers can significantly impact your ability to adapt. With project demands constantly shifting and specialist skills harder to find, freelancers could be the solution your business needs. Here’s why:
 

1. Access to niche expertise

Engineering projects often require highly specialised skills that aren’t needed full-time. Freelancers bring expert knowledge in areas like FPGA development, embedded software and power electronics. This makes it easy to plug gaps in your team without committing to long-term hires.
 

2. Cost-effective solutions

Hiring permanent staff comes with ongoing costs like salaries, benefits and training. Freelancers work on a pay-as-you-go basis, so your budget is focused directly on project needs. This is especially helpful for SMEs and startups managing tight finances.
 

3. Flexibility to scale

Workloads in engineering can fluctuate. Freelancers give you the freedom to scale your team up or down as projects change. Whether it’s short-term R&D or tackling a tricky design challenge, freelancers offer the flexibility to meet demands without the risk of overstaffing.
 

4. Speedier hiring

Finding the perfect permanent hire can take months, especially in competitive markets. Freelancers, however, can be onboarded in days, helping you keep projects on track and meet tight deadlines. Access to a pre-vetted pool of talent can make all the difference.
 

5. Less admin, more focus

Permanent staff come with administrative overheads like pensions, insurance, and compliance. Freelancers, particularly those hired through trusted partners, minimise these burdens. A good recruitment agency handles contracts, IR35 compliance, and payment, so you can focus on the work.
 

The right talent, when you need it

While permanent employees are essential for core functions, freelancers offer an invaluable resource for project-based work and scaling technical teams. By combining both approaches, engineering managers can ensure their teams are equipped to handle any challenge, efficiently and cost-effectively.
 
At IntaPeople, we specialise in connecting businesses with top-tier freelance and permanent engineering talent across Europe. If you’re ready to find the right specialist for your next project, get in touch with us today.