More than one in three workers in the United States, nearly 57 million people, are considered disposable workers in 2026, according to labor economist research. These workers hold jobs where employers make no commitment to career prospects or job security, despite often working on-site for the employer. The total US workforce is 162 million, highlighting the scale of this trend.
The findings come from a nationally representative survey of over 6,000 people conducted in late 2022, supplemented by interviews with nearly 100 workers, employers, and policymakers. The research, detailed in the book "Disposable Workers: The Transformation of Employment," identifies three categories of disposable workers, including contractors employed by staffing firms but working at client sites. Examples include building concierges, office cleaners, part-time food service workers, and even potato-chip tasters hired by companies like PepsiCo.
This shift toward disposable jobs reflects a broader transformation in the labor market where employers increasingly avoid long-term commitments to workers. The phenomenon affects a wide range of sectors and job types, underscoring challenges related to job security and career development. The research highlights the social and economic consequences of this trend, emphasizing the need for policy responses to address the precarious nature of such employment.
The book "Disposable Workers: The Transformation of Employment" was released in 2026 and provides an in-depth analysis of this labor market shift, supported by extensive survey data and interviews. It offers insights into the causes, forms, and impacts of disposable work in the current US economy.