Job update for the Dreadmeister

[dreadnut]

Man, I couldn't have written a better script. So they made me an offer, I accepted it, they sent me a contract and I signed it, did my 10-panel drug test, jumped through a bunch more hoops, was supposed to start the new job last Monday, they call me at 5:45 pm on Friday to tell me that the whole thing is on hold until they have some meetings to decide how they're going to proceed!

Here's the deal: I'd be working in the plant of an electronics manufacturer as Supplier Quality Engineer for their customer - the customer is the one I'd be working for, but I got hired through a head hunter that they employed, so I'm three companies deep into this thing. Now the manufacturer says they don't want to have a customer rep in their plant, something they already agreed to do for one year.

They are supposed to meet again next week to make a final decision. :roll:

Do you think I would have a chance for legal action should they rescind the offer? I have a signed contract, and what's worse, I turned down another solid job offer to accept this one! :evil:

 

[fronobulax]

I'm not going to express an opinion about what your legal recourse is. I will ask, though, how long do you think you will be happy in a position that you had to initiate a lawsuit to get?

I'm reminded of a friend who applied for and received a Federal civil service position (many years ago). His first day, he had to have a physical at medical office at the lab that was hiring him. He was standing there in his underwear when a HR person came in and told him to get dressed because he had been laid off. I don't think he even got severance pay, just an opportunity to collect unemployment.

 

[dreadnut]

I wouldn't sue to get the job, just compensation for breech of contract, loss of wages, etc.

 

[Ian]

Hey Dread,

Man that sucks. Any chance of going back to the other firm that made you an offer and having a chat to them ?

Good luck

Cheers, Ian

 

[idealassets]

Most likely you can only sue if you can prove you had another job offer that you didn't take because of what happened. Its funny how this happens when the economy is bad, they know that usually you had no other offer, because most folks are prone to take the first offer that comes through, then quit if they have to to grab the better offer. If thats hwat you did you have a case.

But please keep us posted if you experience anything different.

 

[learnintoplay62]

Patience my friend. They can change their mind just as quickly and push forward. In the meantime do what you can to search for another job.
One day at a time

 

[Curlington]

Sorry for the bad turn of events. FWIW and this is not legal advice, it seem to me the first question is whether you the signature of the company. Any oral discussions are probably going to be open to interpretation and I'm guessing the written contract is more important. If you have the signature, find where the contract relates to contingencies and commencement of employment. Also, headhunters generally work on commission don't they? So, you should have an ally there that might be in a position to give you some infomed guidance. Best of luck.

 

[Bikerdoc]

Mmmmmmm......a non-union company hired you? To put you in a union plant?

Just askin'

Peace

 

[dreadnut]

Thanks for the advice guys. I hope this all plays out that I still get the job. You're right, ltp, one day at a time!

BTW, what I learned in Business Law class is that a verbal contract is every bit as binding as a written contract, but the burden of proof is higher. No matter, I have a written contract. I will look it over for contingencies, etc., good suggestion, Curlington.

Interestingly, doc, I believe it's a union company (automotive) hiring me to work in a non-union manufacturing plant. However, it is an exempt salaried position anyway.

Even if I do get the job now I feel a bit like I'll be walking into a buzz-saw. Oh well, wouldn't be the first time, probably won't be the last.

Can I just get paid to play my guitar? 8)