what summer job?
Some basic info on some of the main jobs follows. Please bear in mind that there are many other different types of work available not covered here, but you might find this helps.
GENERAL POSITIONS
Chefs and Cooks
There are numerous summer jobs available for chefs and cooks,
ranging from working out in the Alps on a 'Lakes and Mountains'
programme to event work in the UK and of course yachts. Qualified
chefs will find it easier to find work, but as well as cooking the
following would be useful: planning
and costing of weekly menus; controlling
food budgets; staff management
of any kitchen team. Languages
are not required. There is one day off a week.
Nannies and
Children's Representatives
There are a large
number of child care jobs during the summer. Typically tour operators
look for a minimum age 19, but on occassion it can be possible for
younger applicants. These positions are ideal for recently qualified
nannies or people with childcare experience who are looking for
a challenge.
Nannies tend to have their own crèches, which are run under by a local Nanny Manager. These usually cover children up to the age of 4 or 5, with seperate clubs for older children. It is only working with older children that non-NNEB qualified applicants may be able to get a job and only then if you have childcare experience. Nanny jobs can be for 5 or 6 days, with the one day off.
Maintenance Men
There can be quite a lot of this sort
of work in the summer, either improving winter properties or keeping
villas up to date. You need to be at least 21 with a clean driving
licence. This is a a varied
and unpredictable role which calls for initiative, independence
and flexibility. Proven experience
in carpentry, plumbing and/or vehicle maintenance/repair experience
and general repair/maintenance is essential.
Resort Reps/Managers
Reps are responsible for all aspects
of the smooth running of a resort. This can include providing information
to the guests, organising day and evening events, dealing with problems
and escorting the guests to and from the airport.
You need to be self-motivated with a out-going personality, 21+ and capable of working on your own or as part of a team. Relevant experience in a customer service environment is useful. Stamina and enthusiasm is essential as you tend to work a 6/7 day week. In addition you need to speak French, German, Italian or Spanish to a good conversational level. Resort Managers must be fluent.
CAMPSITE JOBS
Children's
Courier
In this type of role the accent is on safety, fun and enjoyment
and you will usually be expected to use your imagination to organise
your own activity programme for 5 hours per day, 6 days a week.
Typically you need to be 18+ and have previous experience of working
with groups of children
Campsite
Courier
A courier's role is very varied. As well as welcoming customers,
preparing and cleaning their accommodation you also need to provide
info about the local area, act as an interpreter, as well as completing
reports and basic accounts. Typically you need a friendly, helpful
attitude and the maturity to deal with any situation, 18+, with
a good working knowledge of a major European language would be an
advantage
Montage /
Demontage Assistant
This position involves the erection of tents at the beginning of
the season, and the dismantling, cleaning and storing of equipment
at the season's end. You need self motivation and stamina to work
to tight deadlines.
Activity Courier
Organising activities for guests. Much of the emphasis is on planning,
advertising, and visiting newly arrived customers to introduce yourself.
You should be lively, with both initiative and excellent organisational
skills. 18+ with previous experience and an energetic nature to
organise group activities
Site Manager
As well as organising the work duties and rotas for your team, you
need to be able to set and maintain excellent service and behavioural
standards. You may also be required to lead montage and demontage
teams at the beginning and end of the season. Typically you will
be 21+, with a good working knowledge of at least one major European
language and supervisory experience
BARGING JOBS
Positions are
all live in and accommodation is tight. Hours are long and varied,
with generally 2 evenings off a week. Briefly, the crews consist
of:
Manager - responsible for the overall operation of each barge.
Chef - buys and cooks food for passengers and crew.
Stewardesses - maintain the general upkeep of the barge and serve
meals.
Bar Staff - runs the bar and serves wine at meals.
Pilot - pilots, steers and maintains the barge.
Matelot - helps the pilot during cruising and maintains the barge
and bicycles.
Driver/Guide - drives and maintains a 30 seat coach, handles daily
excursions and transfers.
