What term applies to a worker who is hired to perform a specific job?

The term that applies to a worker hired to perform a specific job is "employee." This designation refers to an individual who is directly engaged with an organization or company and is compensated for their work. Employees typically have a formal agreement or contract with their employer, which outlines their roles, responsibilities, and the terms of their employment.

An employee is generally considered part of the company, often receiving benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks that can accompany full-time or part-time positions. The employer has certain responsibilities toward employees, including providing a safe working environment and complying with various labor laws, which is integral to the employer-employee relationship.

In contrast, other options involve different arrangements or relationships in the workplace. A contractor, for instance, generally operates independently and is hired to complete specific tasks or projects, often without the same level of long-term commitment or benefits that an employee would expect. An associate may refer to a colleague or someone who works with others in a business context but does not specifically denote being hired for a defined job in the same manner that "employee" does.