 Look like fun? Colorado employs more ski resort workers than any other state. |
Most of the employers in our seasonal jobs section fall into the broad "resort jobs" category. These employers offer the best opportunities for working in beautiful locations all over the country, and most resorts have a job for almost anyone - regardless of work history of experience. In fact, many seasonal resort workers are students or recent graduates.
Resorts generally offer fair pay and above average benefits, including free or heavily discounted food and lodging. You also get the advantage of having time off to enjoy your surroundings since employers typically schedule 40 hour work weeks. On-the-job training opportunities also abound for those with little work experience.
The descriptions below give you a general idea of the types jobs available. Remember, however, that each employer may have other types of positions - for example, ski resorts and guest ranches have over a dozen types of specialty jobs.
Accountants
Most seasonal accountants work as "night auditors." These employees calculate all the daily receipts for the hotel or restaurant. Little or no accounting experience is required, but applicants should have strong math ability. Night auditors may also be responsible for dealing with customer inquiries in the evening hours.
Food Service
Offering excellent opportunities for experienced and inexperienced workers alike, food service positions offer decent pay, the possibility of tips, and a general feeling of camaraderie that often develops between restaurant workers. Positions include bartenders, wait staff, bussers, dishwashers, cooks, and host/hostesses. On the whole, the greatest earning opportunities for most resort workers are generally found in restaurants, where tips are common.
Guest Services
The guest services staff is responsible for running hotel operations at a lodge or resort. Positions include front desk personnel, bell staff, concierges, doormen, and housekeepers. Front desk personnel are responsible for checking guests in and out of their rooms, and for handling guests' messages. Bell staff employees are responsible for luggage. Concierges are responsible for handling guests' complaints and questions. Housekeepers (also known as "room attendants") are responsible for keeping the facility and rooms clean. Some of these jobs offer the opportunity to earn tips.
Instructors
If it's true that "those who cannot do become teachers," there's no better place to teach than in the resort industry. Whether you're a ski, swim or horseback riding instructor, what could be better than doing what you love all day? This category also includes youth activities directors, who entertain kids while their parents have free time.
Lifeguards
These workers are responsible for the safety of swimmers around swimming pools, lakes and the ocean. Most employers require that lifeguards be certified and have first aid and CPR training. If you are interested in being a lifeguard, the best way to start is by calling your local Red Cross or YMCA for information on certification classes. The training is not that difficult, takes about one month and will prepare you for one of the best summer jobs out there.
Maintenance Workers
Maintenance workers are responsible for keeping the facility running well and looking good. Positions range from unskilled painters and landscapers to auto mechanics, carpenters, and electricians.
Telephone Operators
Offered mainly in large resorts and lodges, these workers answer telephones, route in-coming calls to appropriate departments, and occasionally handle walk-in clients' needs. Some light typing and basic computer skills are usually required for these positions.
Rental and Retail Shops
There's a great deal of variation in the jobs available in this category. If you can operate a cash register, you can probably find a rental or retail shop position. Specialized skills may be required for ski equipment sales and rentals. All shop jobs involve dealing with the general public.
Security Personnel
These workers ensure the safety of resort workers and visitors. Duties may include night watchman, daytime patrol, and even detective work. Previous law enforcement experience is helpful, but is not always required for these positions.
