The holiday season is a bustling time in the hospitality industry, with many businesses seeking extra hands to manage the increased customer flow. If you’re looking for a seasonal gig that pays well, consider these top-paying hospitality jobs available in November and December. Each role not only offers competitive pay but also valuable experience that could lead to full-time opportunities.

1. Event Coordinator

Job Description:

Event coordinators plan and execute holiday parties, corporate gatherings, and weddings during the peak season.

Job Responsibilities:

• Coordinate logistics for events, including venue selection, catering, and entertainment.
• Manage budgets and negotiate with vendors.
• Ensure all details are executed as planned on the event day.

Salary Range:

$25-$40 per hour

Experience Needed:

1-3 years in event planning or hospitality management.

Potential Full-Time Careers:

Event Manager, Catering Director, Venue Manager.

2. Hotel Front Desk Manager

Job Description:

Front desk managers oversee hotel operations and staff at the reception area, ensuring guests receive excellent service during peak travel seasons.

Job Responsibilities:

• Supervise front desk staff and manage guest check-ins/outs.
• Handle customer inquiries and complaints.
• Coordinate room assignments and manage reservations.

Salary Range:

$20-$30 per hour

Experience Needed:

2-5 years in hotel operations, preferably with supervisory experience.

Potential Full-Time Careers:

Hotel General Manager, Operations Manager.

Related: Surviving the Holiday Season as a Hospitality Worker

3. Restaurant Server

Job Description:

Servers provide attentive service to guests, taking orders, serving food, and ensuring a pleasant dining experience, especially in busy holiday restaurants.

Job Responsibilities:

• Take orders and deliver food and beverages.
• Provide recommendations and address customer concerns.
• Process payments and maintain cleanliness of the dining area.

Salary Range:

$15-$25 per hour (including tips)

Experience Needed:

No prior experience required, but previous serving experience is preferred.

Potential Full-Time Careers:

Restaurant Manager, Catering Coordinator, Food and Beverage Director.

4. Retail Sales Associate

Job Description:

Retail sales associates assist customers during the busy holiday shopping season, often in gift shops, department stores, or specialty boutiques.

Job Responsibilities:

• Assist customers with product selections and provide information.
• Process transactions and handle cash register duties.
• Maintain store organization and visual merchandising.

Salary Range:

$15-$20 per hour

Experience Needed:

Entry-level; customer service experience is a plus.

Potential Full-Time Careers:

Store Manager, Retail Buyer, Visual Merchandiser.

5. Concierge

Job Description:

Concierges provide guests with information and services to enhance their stay, from booking reservations to suggesting local attractions during the festive season.

Job Responsibilities:

• Assist guests with bookings for restaurants, tours, and events.
• Provide recommendations for local attractions and activities.
• Address guest inquiries and resolve issues promptly.

Salary Range:

$18-$30 per hour

Experience Needed:

1-3 years in hospitality or customer service.

Potential Full-Time Careers:

Head Concierge, Guest Services Manager, Hospitality Consultant.

Related: Working the holidays: Finding the ho ho ho in the busiest season

6. Bartender

Job Description:

Bartenders prepare and serve drinks in restaurants, bars, and hotels, with increased demand during holiday parties and gatherings.

Job Responsibilities:

• Mix and serve drinks according to recipes.
• Manage bar inventory and stock supplies.
• Provide excellent customer service and engage with guests.

Salary Range:

$15-$25 per hour (including tips)

Experience Needed:

Prior bartending experience preferred; certification may be required in some areas.

Potential Full-Time Careers:

Bar Manager, Beverage Director, Restaurant Owner.

7. Housekeeping Supervisor

Job Description:

Housekeeping supervisors oversee cleaning staff to maintain high standards of cleanliness in hotels and resorts during busy periods.

Job Responsibilities:

• Manage housekeeping staff and assign tasks.
• Inspect rooms and public areas for cleanliness and maintenance issues.
• Train new employees and ensure compliance with health standards.

Salary Range:

$18-$25 per hour

Experience Needed:

2-4 years in housekeeping or hospitality management.

Potential Full-Time Careers:

Housekeeping Manager, Operations Manager.

8. Catering Assistant

Job Description:

Catering assistants help with food preparation and service during events, often hired for large holiday parties or corporate events.

Job Responsibilities:

• Assist with food setup and serving.
• Ensure cleanliness of catering areas and equipment.
• Support the catering manager with logistics and service.

Salary Range:

$15-$20 per hour

Experience Needed:

No formal experience required, but hospitality experience is beneficial.

Potential Full-Time Careers:

Catering Manager, Event Planner, Food Service Director.

The holiday season presents a wealth of opportunities in the hospitality industry. Whether you’re looking for a temporary position to earn some extra cash or seeking a gateway to a full-time career, these seasonal roles can provide valuable experience and connections in this vibrant field.