Which job? Completely torn…

[WitsEnd10]

I’ve recently been offered two jobs and I’m completely torn between them. Both have pros and cons, and I’m really worried I’ll make the wrong choice.
Background context: Job 1, I was shortlisted with one other candidate after interview, they were chosen however one of the interviewers called me and offered me a different position as they felt I interviewed really well and wanted to work with me. However I was due to start yesterday and showed up, only to be told that I couldn’t as HR hadn’t processed my paperwork yet. Nobody contacted me to tell me this. This has left a bit of a sour taste in my mouth to be honest.

Job 1: Zero hours contract, however there are currently up to full time hours available and I would potentially be offered a contract in January when somebody is due to retire. Requires occasional weekends and evening work (maybe 3-4 shifts per month). No paid holiday or sick time due to zero hours contract. Would need to pay for morning childcare and bus travel. I would prefer the actual job role of this job (public facing) but I wouldn’t dislike Job 2 IYSWIM.

Job 2: 18 hours per week (I was looking for 16-24 hours) term time only. No childcare costs or travel costs. Temporary position until April but possibly permanent offer for the right candidate. I already know most of the staff and get on well with them.

What would you choose?

2, no contest. If they didn't bother to contact you about start dates etc, you can bet their going to mess you around on hours

This is my worry (not specifically the hours but just generally poor organisation/communication) but I’m also very conscious that I may not have a job again in April if I go for Job 2. I’m probably overthinking though which is why I wanted some opinions. Thank you for your answer 😊

Job 2 for me. I see what you're saying about the risk of not having a job in April, however job 1 isn't secure either being zero hours

Job 2. Zero hours is a massive drawback.

your worry about job 2 about it being temporary applies much more to job 1 as with zero hours they can just stop offering work with no notice.

Job 2. No contest.

i agree with PPs, job 2 offers more certainty over hours.
It sounds job 1 are already messing you around with start dates as well.

Also, this wasn’t your question, but although job 1 is zero hours, it still entitles you to holiday pay.

Absolutely job two.

Job 2 - something else will turn up if it’s not made permanent

Job 2 and then start applying for other stuff a few months before the fixed term ends in case it doesn't become perm. I would no way go for job 1!

I thought that, but their contract indicates otherwise.