Hirelings

In original D&D, hirelings were a large part of the game and a useful way to spend resources, and I like to adapt that as a system in my 5th edition campaigns.
Hirelings require compensation, as well as resources to complete their assigned task such as rations. Hirelings come in a variety of skill levels and specialisations which are loosely defined in these tables:

Combat based hirelings:

Artisan based hirelings:

Some of the most useful hirelings are specialized faction members who are only available for hire after gaining a certain level of reputation with a particular faction.
Some examples of things you might contract hirelings to do are:

• Information gathering, investigation and scouting (i.e. finding a dungeon to explore)

• Artisinal work to manufacture a specific object (i.e. clothing, armor, weapons or vehicles)

• Enchanting an item with a specific magical effect

• Creation of potions, spell scrolls, or other useful consumable magic items

• Stealing or performing a heist from a faction

• Transporting resources in a trade caravan

• Constructing or repairing a building on a plot of land

• Escorting a caravan, NPC, or the party to ensure their safety while travelling

• Providing a crew for a ship

Some hirelings may request alternate forms of compensation. For example, if your request hirelings to scout for a dungeon, they might request a cut of 30% of all GP found in the dungeon, or the crew for trading vessal might split 60% of the trading profit between themselves. After gaining a high reputation with some factions, they might occasionally grant you hirelings free of charge.