Been offered a job but have to work through umbrella company?

[Makemeaname]

I've recently had an interview for what I thought would be a straightforward job (major company). However I've now been offered it and told that I would be working as a contractor and need to set myself up through an umbrella company.

Is this a thing? Should I do it (I'd quite like the job)? Or should I run a mile?

Thanks

Some large corps have such a complex recruitment process that it's easier to get people in the back door by having them contract for a few months to ensure a good fit then they offer you a permanent position without all the interview stages. A contract position should garner you a much higher wage to offset the lack of stability and holiday though. Also you need to be aware that this puts you in a vulnerable position if there are major cut backs etc. If its a company you think would look great on your cv then it might be worth doing, however if you need total stability it might not be right for you. I took a contractor role at a major global company, got hired ft within a few months and stayed for a good few years so I think weigh up carefully what you want short and long term really. It can work really well.

Thanks - I'm just out of uni and would be living with my parents so lack of security isn't a major issue. Think it'll be good as a short term option just to get some experience, and then I can start to think about what I really want.

I would not be keen, essentially you are having to pay extra for someone to process your pay.
I work as a supply teacher and avoid umbrella companies like the plague and always insist on PAYE.

Agree about insisting on PAYE. People get into huge problems with HMRC insisting that they were employees in practice.