A survey by employment platform iHire finds that 41.6% of workers have taken—or considered taking—a “burner job,” a temporary or short-term role held only for the paycheck with no intention of staying long-term. Specifically, 21.9% have actually held a burner job, while 19.7% have considered taking such a role.  

“Burner jobs are often thought of as part-time, temporary, or gig economy roles that people take to earn quick income and fill gaps in their employment histories,” says Lori Cole, career coach and brand ambassador at iHire. “However, a burner job can be any job someone takes that they are not passionate about. Often, they will accept the job and anticipate leaving as soon as they find something better.” 

For example, an unhappy employee might accept the first opportunity that arises so they can leave their current role, then search for the right fit while employed in the burner job. This likely has occurred during the post-pandemic Great Resignation and beyond since people are placing a stronger emphasis on career fulfillment and workplace satisfaction, iHire stipulates. 

In addition, the rising cost of living and inflation have been leading workers to seek burner jobs, including gig economy roles, to earn supplemental income. The Bureau of Labor Statistics backs this claim, reporting in August 2024 that 8.2 million people in the U.S. were working multiple jobs.