Changing Jobs Within the Same Industry: When Retraining Makes Sense
You want to make a change, but stay in the industry?
Do you work in the dining room or the kitchen and feel like it’s time for a change? The good news is: You don’t have to start a new training program right away to make a career move within the industry. Often, targeted continuing education or some on-the-job training can get you where you want to go just as well.
In this post, you'll learn:
- How retraining, continuing education, and on-the-job training differ
- Which path is right for which career change
- When retraining really makes sense
Retraining, Continuing Education, On-the-Job Training: What's the Difference?
In a retraining program, you prepare specifically for a new career, often with the goal of earning a recognized credential. Continuing education, on the other hand, broadens or deepens your existing knowledge. And during on-the-job training, you learn the responsibilities of your new position directly at the workplace.
| Distance | Duration | Result | Suitable if … |
|---|---|---|---|
| Training | a few weeks | Experience in the new field | you’re already familiar with similar tasks |
| Further training | Days to months | Certificate | if you lack specific knowledge |
| Catch up on your apprenticeship certification | Depending on prior experience | Apprenticeship certificate | You’ve been working in the field for some time |
| Retraining | Several months to years | New vocational certification | Your target profession requires a degree |
Which change requires which approach?
Many career changes within the industry are easier than you might think. You’ll bring your experience with guests, procedures, and peak times with you.
| Change | Typical Path |
|---|---|
| Service → Front Desk | Orientation and training in the hotel program |
| Kitchen Assistant → Cook | Catch up on apprenticeship completion |
| Service or Kitchen → Management | Advanced training for career advancement |
| Kitchen or Service → Administration | Continuing education, e.g., accounting |
More about the individual job profiles
You can find out what to expect in each of these fields in our career profiles for the hospitality and restaurant industries.
When does retraining really make sense?
#1 When a degree is a requirement
Some positions require a vocational certificate, such as those for cooks. Even if you’ve been working in the kitchen for a while, you won’t have to start from scratch. In Austria, you can earn your apprenticeship certificate by taking the special apprenticeship completion exam if you can demonstrate sufficient practical experience.
#2 If you want to move up the ranks in the long run
More responsibility often means a higher salary. If you want to become a chef or move into restaurant management, a solid education will help you. The HOGAST Job Salary Check.
#3 When Your Body Needs a Break
Long periods of standing, heat, heavy lifting: Not everyone wants to deal with these physical demands until retirement. Switching to a reception or administrative role can make things easier for you.
Who is helping you with your retraining?
These resources can help you:
Good to know: Check with the AMS to find out about possible financial assistance for your career change. The type of support you can receive depends, among other things, on your employment status and the training program you plan to pursue.
Ready for a new career path?
Changing jobs within the same industry isn't like starting from scratch. First, figure out what your dream job really requires. Often, on-the-job training is enough; sometimes, retraining is worth it.
Still not sure which field is right for you? Then our career guide will help you figure it out.
Tip: When you create a candidate profile and turn on job alerts, you won't miss any interesting job openings.
FAQs on Retraining and Changing Jobs in the Restaurant Industry
Not always. For many job changes—such as moving from customer service to the front desk—on-the-job training and brief workshops are sufficient. Retraining is worth it if your target profession requires a degree.
Yes, in Austria, under certain conditions, you can take the special apprenticeship completion exam even without having completed a regular apprenticeship. To do so, you must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate that you have the required knowledge and skills. It’s best to contact the relevant apprenticeship office to find out about your options.
Depending on your employment situation and the training program you choose, you may be eligible for financial assistance, such as through the AMS. Some employers also contribute toward the cost of continuing education. It’s best to seek advice in advance to find out which funding options are available to you.
