FORT MYERS, Fla. - Local temp agencies say they're seeing growth for the first time in more than a year; a sign permanent positions could be coming soon.

The U.S. added 34,000 temporary jobs in October, even as unemployment increased. Local agencies say it makes the most sense for many companies that are still struggling to dig out of the recession.

Ron DuBois has been placing temporary employees into Southwest Florida businesses for 11 years.

"We have to move quickly and we have to be light on our feet," DuBois, the owner of Express Employment Professionals, says.

DuBois says temps allow businesses to hire with caution.

"They want to remove as much risk as they possibly can without making commitments and still be able to achieve their service and production needs," DuBois says.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a two-percent increase in temp jobs from September to October. It may not sound like much, but it's the biggest increase in two years.

DuBois says the companies he staffs need help but haven't gotten the go-ahead to hire permanently.

"That is what's called flexible staffing, and that's what works in terms of business today," DuBois says.

"If you're willing to work hard and take whatever comes -- knowing that it's a growing experience -- then it will work for you," Mark Waldron, temporary employee, says.

DuBois thinks temporary staffing is not only here to stay but believes it will become a future business model.

"I'm talking about even contractual situations -- a CFO, maybe a Vice President," DuBois says. "You will have them come in, do the strategies, the work that it takes... but then that position will end."

The extra temp work still isn't enough to satisfy the growing number of willing employees. DuBois says many are also taking jobs that pay far less than they used to.