Former Employer Bad-Mouthed Me, But Now Wants Me Back?

Dear Experts, After a buyout, I was let go by my employer. Although HR said it was a downsize and gave me all the ARRA benefits, the dept supervisors told a different story to those left behind. I was lucky and found a temp job within days of the layoff. Today, I received an offer to return to work at my former employer in a lower position at a significant salary cut for a short term transition contract, mainly because I will not need any training for the position. According to unemployment, if I don't accept the offer, I will lose my benefits since it pays more than the other temp job I had. I've negotiated a significant number of remote work days so I don't have to be in the office continually and can continue my search for full-time work. The supervisors who spoke ill of me are not in this department but I will have to work with them. I can be civil and rise above the rumors but I feel uncomfortable going back. How do I explain on my resume going from management with the former owners, to an administrative position with the new owners and the temp job in between the two places? Here is how our CAREEREALISM-Approved Experts answered this question on Twitter: Q#446 On resume, can list 2 gigs/same employer @ diff times; cover letter explains: layoff, rehire; really want FT job. (@juliaerickson) Q#446 It's always best to be honest, but there are many others in similar situations. It shouldn't hold you back. (@gradversity) Q#446 Stay professional at work. Note loss on resume as downsizing, but you were rehired b/c of skill. Leave at that. (@EmilyBennington) Our Twitter Advice Project (T.A.P.) is no longer an active campaign. To find an answer to the above question, please use the "Search" box in the right-hand column of this website.