Worst HR and Management Ever - Substitute Teacher ESS Employee Review

1.0
Jan 27, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

-Relatively quick hiring process -You get to know your school district better -Pleasant school staff once you find your favorite area

Cons

-No training a lot is learned after a consequence or on-site Ex: I learned that you have to call ESS for cancellations instead of using the willsub+ app AFTER being blacklisted from my first school. -Delayed or incorrect paychecks for up to 2 - 4 weeks at a time -No HR assistance , don’t bother reaching out if ESS is at fault -No reliable upper management contact Ex: I called 3 days straight regarding a paycheck affecting my housing and a missing days work. They did not get back to me for 2 days. Customer service apologized stating they couldn’t do anything. -Your account will be deactivated constantly for any reason including missing a call from them. Very backwards given they don’t answer calls. -You don’t actually choose when you work -They require up to 15 UNPAID minutes before the start of the assignment for you to arrive. -You may have to stay after the assigned time UNPAID -I am disabled and took this job because of the implied flexibility being extremely vital to me but its worse than a 9-5. -no pay over breaks or holidays -retaliation seems to be common place or just pure lack of empathy. Wouldn’t be surprised if i am let go after this review. If you work for them don’t do it full time no matter what just use it as an occasional side job.

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ESS Response
4mo
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We appreciate you providing your perspective and understand how important communication, training, and support are in the workplace. We are continually working to make improvements whenever possible.

Explore other reviews about ESS

5.0
Feb 23, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

They are super understanding with scheduling, and provide a great system for clocking in and out of work!

Cons

Some of the technical aspects to set up and get certified takes a while and can be confusing

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ESS Response
3mo
We appreciate you sharing your input with us! It’s great to hear. We’re fortunate to have you as a part of our team!
4.0
Jun 17, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The corporate support and recruitment team are excellent; they are professional and highly responsive. The onboarding and training process was comprehensive and genuinely prepared me for the realities of substitute teaching. The role offers a great deal of flexibility, opportunities to engage with the local population, and a clear pipeline for those seeking long-term subbing positions or a path toward a full-time teaching career. It is an excellent environment for networking within the education sector.

Cons

The day-to-day experience is heavily dependent on the specific district and school culture, which can vary significantly. Some districts provide free lunch, others don’t. Unfortunately, there is often a lack of respect at the school level; substitute staff are sometimes treated as expendable rather than as valued members of the team. There is a lack of job security, as pre-booked assignments are frequently canceled on short notice to accommodate other preferred substitutes. Subs have to work 4 days a month and it’s hard to meet when people are constantly being dropped from jobs. Additionally, the compensation is extremely low, and the benefits package is insufficient, making it difficult to rely on this position as a primary source of income.

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