Day Worker Center of Mountain View

Frequently Asked Questions

What are your hours?
We are open Monday-Saturday, 7am-5pm. If you need someone for after hours or a Sunday, call in advance so that we can arrange for it.

How do I hire someone?
Start with our Reserve a Worker page to send us your request. Or simply call or come by; no appointment is needed. We will provide a worker who meets your specific job needs and who will be ready to go to work.

How are workers and employers matched?
The Center uses a list to make sure that jobs are distributed as evenly as possible among workers. When you come to the Center we ask for details regarding the job. We then match you with the next worker on the list who meets your needs. For example, if you need an expert painter, we will find the next painter waiting to work: we will not match you with the first person on the list if they do not know how to paint. We also try to accommodate preferences regarding English proficiency and age, and employers are welcome to request workers by name.

I need someone who speaks some English. Can the Center accommodate me?
Most of the workers speak Spanish as their native language. All workers participate in daily English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at the Center. Most workers understand quite a bit of English. Some speak English well and some are still learning, so be willing to talk slowly and clearly. We can translate your instructions and provide you with someone who understands exactly what you need done.

How much should I pay?
Our laborers earn a minimum of $12 an hour, or $15 per hour of heavy labor. Specialty skills require higher pay. Bonuses for a job well done are always appreciated. The actual wage is determined when the job application is completed, so there is a clear understanding prior to leaving the Center. Many of our employers call to say how pleased they were with their worker(s), and are repeat customers. If you have a good experience, please share your experience and recommend us to your family and friends.

Are your workers qualified?
We register the workers every day as they enter; priority is given to those registering first. The workers come to the Center seeking a safe place, looking for assistance with language and culture, and seeking employment with dignity. We provide job matching as a community resource, but we are not an employment agency. We have not done background checks.

Am I liable if a worker is injured while working at my residence?
Most homeowners' insurance covers people working at your home. However, we recommend checking with your insurance company for details on your situation.

Could I get in any trouble for using a worker who does not have proper documentation?
Since we are not an employment agency, we do not check documentation for either workers or employers. We consider information about employers and workers private, and our policy is to never share such information.

Do I need to report the wages I pay for tax purposes?
For one-time, or short-term jobs, reporting wages for tax purposes is not usually necessary. If, however, you have a long-term project, we suggest you talk to an accountant with any questions.

What about transportation?
Although some workers have cars or bicycles, most rely on public transportation. As the bus system does not always connect to work sites, we suggest that you plan on picking up the workers from the center and returning them to the center when your work is done.

Is reliability or safety a concern?

Employers and employees undertake a work relationship at their own risk. Yet when you hire one of the workers, you will be reassured by the close-knit community behind the Day Worker Center. The workers you hire are a part of an extended family; by the time you hire one, we have gotten to know them and are pleased to recommend them to you.

Any other suggestions?
Most workers will not have food or drink with them. Please consider providing something to eat and drink during the workday -- they will appreciate it. Please provide access to drinking water and a restroom they can use.