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Does Aerotek Drug Test?

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It Depends

Aerotek drug testing depends on the client company. Aerotek places many workers in industrial, manufacturing, and warehouse settings where drug testing is common. Engineering and professional assignments may or may not require testing.

Aerotek drug testing depends on the client company and assignment, but testing is common because Aerotek places a large number of workers in industrial, manufacturing, and warehouse settings. Aerotek is one of the largest staffing agencies in the United States (part of Allegis Group) and specializes in light industrial, skilled trades, engineering, and professional placements. Many of Aerotek's industrial clients require pre-assignment drug testing. Engineering and professional assignments may also require testing, depending on the client company and the industry (aerospace, defense, and energy clients commonly require screening). Office and administrative placements are less likely to require testing. Your Aerotek recruiter will inform you of testing requirements for each assignment.

Drug Testing by Position

PositionTested?Test TypeWhen
Warehouse / Light Industrial (temp)Yes — most clients require itUrinePre-assignment
Manufacturing / Production (temp)Yes — most clients require itUrinePre-assignment
Skilled Trades (welding, CNC, etc.)Yes — most clients require itUrinePre-assignment
Engineering / Technical (contract)Varies by clientUrinePre-assignment (if required by client)
Aerotek Internal StaffVariesUrine (if required)Pre-employment (some roles)

Aerotek Drug Testing Is Client-Driven but Common

Aerotek is one of the largest staffing agencies in the United States, operating as part of the Allegis Group. Aerotek places temporary and contract workers primarily in light industrial, manufacturing, skilled trades, engineering, and professional settings. Because a significant portion of Aerotek's placements are in industrial environments — warehouses, factories, construction sites, and manufacturing plants — drug testing is a common requirement. Many of Aerotek's industrial clients have strict drug-free workplace policies that apply to temporary workers. The drug testing requirement comes from the client, and Aerotek facilitates the process.

Industrial and Skilled Trades — Usually Tested

If you are seeking a warehouse, manufacturing, or skilled trades placement through Aerotek, expect to be drug tested. These assignments involve working with heavy machinery, power tools, forklifts, CNC machines, and other equipment where impairment could cause serious injury. The test is typically a standard urine drug screen conducted at a third-party collection site before your first day. Some clients also maintain post-accident and random testing policies that apply to all workers on-site, including Aerotek temporary staff.

Engineering and Professional Assignments — Varies

Aerotek places a significant number of engineers, IT professionals, and technical specialists at client companies. Drug testing for these positions varies widely. Clients in aerospace, defense, energy, and government sectors commonly require drug testing for all workers, including contractors. Clients in commercial technology and professional services may not require testing. Your Aerotek recruiter will provide specific information about testing requirements when discussing available assignments.

Recent Policy Changes

  • 2020-2021: Some Aerotek clients reduce drug testing during pandemic labor shortages; industrial clients generally maintain testing
  • 2024-2026: Drug testing continues to vary by client; industrial and defense clients maintain strict testing; some professional clients have relaxed requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Aerotek drug test all temp workers?
No, but many Aerotek assignments require drug testing. Aerotek specializes in industrial and manufacturing placements where testing is standard. Engineering and professional assignments may or may not require testing depending on the client. Your Aerotek recruiter will inform you about specific requirements for each assignment.
What type of drug test does Aerotek use?
When testing is required, Aerotek typically arranges a urine drug test (urinalysis) at a third-party collection site. The standard panel screens for marijuana (THC), cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP. The specific panel depends on the client's requirements.
Does Aerotek test for marijuana?
It depends on the client and the state. Many Aerotek industrial clients include marijuana (THC) in their testing panels. In states with laws prohibiting pre-employment marijuana testing for non-safety-sensitive positions, those protections apply to temporary workers. Defense and government clients typically require marijuana testing regardless of state law.
Can I get an Aerotek assignment without drug testing?
It is possible, but may depend on the assignments available. Some professional and office-based placements do not require drug testing. Discuss your preferences with your Aerotek recruiter. Keep in mind that a large portion of Aerotek's business is in industrial settings where testing is standard.
What happens if I fail a drug test through Aerotek?
If you fail a drug test for a specific assignment, that placement will be withdrawn. The failed test may be recorded in your Aerotek file and could affect your eligibility for future assignments that require drug testing. You may still be eligible for assignments that do not require screening.

Take Action — Direct Links

Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Company drug testing policies change frequently and may vary by location. Always confirm the current policy with your hiring manager or HR representative. For substance abuse support, call SAMHSA at 1-800-662-4357 (free, confidential, 24/7).