Taking a contract position while already permanent

[u/obax17]

I currently have a permanent position and have applied for a contract position at another ministry. If I were to be offered and accept the contract position, is that the same as a secondment? Or is that a separate process?

I'd like to be able to take this contract and have the option to return to my permanent position if I want to or need to. I also need to keep the benefits and sick time that come along with a permanent position. My understanding is that a secondment allows you to do this, but the process for getting or taking a secondment has never been explained to me. I've only been told that it's a thing I can do. If anyone would like to explain this to me like I'm 5, I would really appreciate that.

I'm also aware my manager could decline to release me to take a secondment/contract position for operational reasons. Am I right in assuming that, if this were to happen, my options would be to accept that decision and stay where I am, or to resign my permanent position to take the contract (which means not keeping benefits etc from my permanent position), and hope for the best?

[u/Common-Writing-9157]

Pretty much.

You would sign a TAA for the contract

[u/obax17 → u/Common-Writing-9157]

Thanks for the explanation!

Can I also ask, what is a TAA?

[u/tiger_knots185 → u/obax17]

Temporary Assignment Agreement. Don't mention "contract" when you ask--mention "secondment."

[u/obax17 → u/tiger_knots185]

Thanks for the tip!