Types of Resort and Hospitality Support Jobs
Introduction
Resort support employees are those workers who keep the resort running smoothly on a day-to-day basis. Often working behind the scenes, these staff members-housekeepers, waiters, diswashers, front desk personnel-are an integral part of each hotel’s operation. Often requiring little or no previous experience, resort support jobs are the easiest way to break into the destination resort job market. These positions aren’t always the most glamorous, but they will give you a chance to fulfill your desire to work in a resort setting and get your foot in the door.
As a resort support staff member you’ll meet people from all over the world with interests similar to your own. As a former resort worker says:
There’s a great sense of camaraderie. It’s like one big family. There are a lot of people there to help you and support you. It’s a great escape from
reality.
Once you’ve spent a season on the staff-in any capacity-you’ll be better prepared to go after the job of your dreams. The contacts you make and the skills you learn your first time out will be invaluable when you apply for a transfer, return for a second season, or pursue a position at an even better resort.
On-the-job issues
One drawback of taking a resort support job is the pay. Because these are primarily entry-level positions, the wages are not as high as those of more skilled or experienced workers, such as tennis instructors and dive leaders.
A college student who worked as a waiter at a resort in Michigan recommends that new employees be prepared for longer hours and more work than they might expect, but also keep in mind the perks:
The pay may not be as wonderful as one might think, but certain benefits might up the value. There are little things you have to weigh against the low wages, like free meals.
Another factor to consider is that although you will be living and working in a beautiful place, you still will be expected to work hard, just as you would at any other job. In the words of a resort employee who has worked in the Virgin Islands and Utah:
It was a major culture shock. You’ve got to remember, you’re not going there on vacation. You’re going there to work.
In general, it’s important to keep in mind that a job at a resort is still a job. If you keep your mind on your work while you’re on the clock and come prepared to work hard, you’ll undoubtedly have a fun and rewarding job experience.