Bringing multiple job holding out of the moonlight: A person-centred typology of multiple job holder experiences

Multiple job holding (MJH) is linked to mixed experiences, suggesting multiple job holders (MJHers) are not a homogeneous group. Using latent class analysis, in a sample of 507 multiple job holders in New Zealand, we identified multiple job holding types based on situational circumstances, including psychosocial work factors, and examined whether outcomes differed across types. Indicators captured multiple job holding context (choice, financial security, hours, tenure, and motives) and psychosocial work conditions in their main job (COPSOQ III). The four types identified were termed compelled, striver, peripheral, and privileged, with differences in outcomes experienced found across the types. Compelled multiple job holders faced high demands and low resources and reported the poorest health and work outcomes. Strivers had the highest demands but strong resources, combining high strain with high satisfaction. Peripherals reported few symptoms but low engagement. Privileged multiple job holders reported low demands, strong resources, and the most favourable outcomes. This informed typology supports more targeted research, policy and practice.