[JohnFen]

I agree.

But you need to find a good one. They do exist -- but they're not likely to be cold-calling you.

I know of a lot of companies who simply don't do direct hiring at all -- they do everything through agencies, on a contract-to-hire basis. That way, they don't have to put as much time and effort into finding and screening applicants, and they can "try before they buy" -- if the person doesn't work out during the contract period, it's less investment lost by the company. If they do, then the company hires them directly after the contract ends.

[mgkimsal]

Sure, not easy to find a good recruiter, but yes, they exist. Hence the advice "Contact 3-4 recruiting companies in your area" - you need to do some outreach to them. Get referrals from network as to who may have used someone. I've had a couple of good engagements from recruiter-connected work over the years. Had a couple of not great ones too, but... they pass. You move on. Just like with 'job hunting' - you need to work it. Be talking to multiple recruiters at the same time.