Difference Between Staff and Intern

Irrespective of whether one is looking for a job or is hiring, it is paramount to differentiate the terms training, job, interns, employees, and contractors. This ensures persons looking for employment opportunities understand and adhere to the terms while also getting the right benefits. It also ensures employers have a streamlined staffing structure and accords each party his or her rights.   

What does Staff mean?

This is a person hired on a long term or short term contract to fulfill a specific task in an organization in exchange for an annual, monthly or weekly income.  The position can either be full time or part-time, whereby payment guidelines are provided by the respective labor acts. Staff members enjoy benefits from the employer including overtime pay, annual leave and even paid sick leave.

What is Intern?

Also referred to as a trainee, this is a temporal worker whose aim is to have an on-the-job training as opposed to pay for skills provided.  It is common for most people to start their careers from an intern position as they receive the training to jumpstart their careers. Although interns are not entitled to remuneration, a stipend may be offered to facilitate the person’s needs. While the position offers a great learning ground, interns should not replace employees and should be under close supervision. 

Similarities between Staff and Intern

• Both are common terms concerning work

Differences between Staff and Intern

Definition

Staff refers to a person hired on a long term or short term contract to fulfill a specific task in an organization in exchange for an annual, monthly or weekly income. On the other hand, an intern refers to a temporal worker whose aim is to have an on-the-job training as opposed to pay for skills provided.

Aim

While a staff aims at receiving remuneration for the work provided, an intern aims at receiving an on-the-job training.

Remuneration

Staff members receive an annual, monthly or weekly income while interns are not entitled to any remuneration.

Benefits

While staff members enjoy benefits from the employer including overtime pay, annual leave and even paid sick leave, interns are not entitled to any benefits from an employer.

Staff vs. Intern: Comparison Table

Summary of Staff vs. Intern

Staff refers to a person hired on a long term or short term contract to fulfill a specific task in an organization in exchange for an annual, monthly or weekly income and enjoys benefits from the employer including overtime pay, annual leave and even paid sick leave. On the other hand, an intern refers to a temporal worker whose aim is to have an on-the-job training. Interns are, however, not entitled to any remuneration or any benefits from an employer.

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