Will a non-compete prevent me from working on temp assignments that have been awarded to competitors of my previous employer

If your non-competition agreement is enforceable, which is impossible to tell without examining it in light of your state's law, then it makes no difference whether you are working in a permanent or temporary capacity. The noncompetition agreement likely prohibits the simple act of competing without distinguishing how you do it. That being said, noncompetition agreements can be invalidated or limited for a host of reasons, including overbreadth in time, territory, or the scope of work prohibitied. If you are concerned about missing this new employment opportunity, you should consult an attorney practicing employment law in your state to advise you as to the enforceability of the non-competition agreement.

You should also keep in mind that, depending on your state's law, the competitor may subject itself to a lawsuit by your prior employer if the competitor knows of your non-competition agreement with your previous employer and nevertheless encourages you to violate that agreement. I, therefore, reiterate that you consult an employment law attorney in your state before proceeding.

DISCLAIMER: I am not your attorney. This answer is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship.

No you can't do this. You are aiding a competitor of your company obtain clients that might have gone to your former employer. Live by the agreement, don't get cute with it, and you won't get sued.