What jobs are there in the hotel and catering industry?
These jobs await you in the hotel and catering industry
The hotel and catering industry offers you plenty of variety - there's no room for boredom or monotony! Whether you work directly with guests in service, get creative in the kitchen or ensure smooth processes in the background: there are many paths you can take. But what jobs are there exactly? And what qualifications should you have?
Hogastjob gives you a compact overview of the most popular job profiles. And you will immediately see how diverse not only the industry but also the individual fields of activity really are.
Your job in service
In service, you are right in the middle of the action. You make sure that the guests feel completely at ease and that their visit to the restaurant remains a good memory. Friendliness, organizational skills and teamwork are particularly important.
Typical jobs in service:
You should know that: In service, you often work at times when others have free time. On the other hand, no two days are the same and the job offers many opportunities to expand your expertise.
Your job in the kitchen
In the kitchen, everything revolves around good food, quality and teamwork. You prepare dishes, contribute your own ideas and ensure that everything is perfect on the plate. Creativity, resilience and organizational talent are important skills in this area. With hard work and commitment, apprentices develop very quickly from young chef to head chef.
Typical jobs in the kitchen:
- Breakfast chef
- Chef de Partie
- Commis de Cuisine
- Saucier
You should know this: Good chefs are in demand worldwide. With increasing practice, doors to international hotels or restaurants will also be open to you.
Your job at reception
At reception, you are the first point of contact for guests. In addition to handling check-in and check-out, you will answer questions and help with any issues relating to the stay. Strong communication skills, organization and a friendly manner are essential.
Typical jobs at the reception desk:
- Receptionist/Front office staff
- Night Auditor
- Front Office Manager
- Concierge
You should know this: Do you love learning new languages and enjoy working with people from all over the world? Then look around for a job abroad! Language talents are in high demand, especially at reception.
Your job in housekeeping
In housekeeping, you ensure that your guests get a positive impression of the hotel from the very first moment. From the entrance hall to single rooms and luxurious suites: With your eye for detail, you create a pleasant atmosphere in all rooms.
Typical jobs in housekeeping:
- Cleaner
- Chambermaid/Roomboy
- Housekeeping Supervisor
You should know this: Housekeeping is one of the essential tasks in a hotel. Clean rooms and a well-kept environment have a huge impact on how guests rate their stay. Regular training will keep you on the ball professionally and ensure your continuous development.
Your job in the wellness area
In the wellness area, you will pamper guests, advise them on skin and body care and the use of care products or look after the spa area. To do this, you should have empathy and a sense of responsibility and enjoy working with people.
Typical jobs in the wellness sector:
- Masseur
- Beautician
- Fitness supervisor
- Chiropodist
You should know that: In the wellness area, you are close to people. Massages and treatments involve physical contact - so there's no need to be afraid of contact.
Your job in administration
As an administrative employee, you will primarily be responsible for coordination, figures and processes in the background. That's why organization, accuracy and economic thinking should be among your strengths. Depending on the size of the company, there are different tasks, departments and career paths.
Typical jobs in administration:
- Personnel management/HR
- Marketing or sales staff
- Accounting/Controlling
You should know this: Are you already working in the hotel and catering industry? With the right further training, you can also switch internally from other areas to administration.
Your job in management
In management, you take on one thing above all: responsibility. Depending on your position, you will manage individual areas or entire departments. With experience, commitment and specialist knowledge, you have the opportunity to develop into management positions.
Typical jobs in management:
- Hotel Manager
- Head of department
- Marketing- & Event Management
You should know this: Many managers start their career with operational activities. Over the course of your career, you will be able to take on more and more responsibility to eventually reach a management position.
More jobs in the hotel and catering industry
In addition to the classic jobs, there are many other exciting roles in the industry. Especially in vacation regions or in larger hotels, additional areas of responsibility arise that provide variety in the guest experience.
Further job examples:
- Animator/childcare worker
- House technician
- Ski instructor/outdoor guide
You should know this: Depending on the region, season and hotel concept, new areas of responsibility are constantly emerging. This gives you the opportunity to pursue very different career paths - even as a career changer.
How to get started in the hotel and catering industry
The classic entry into a career in the hospitality industry is via an apprenticeship or an apprenticeship with a school-leaving certificate after compulsory schooling. If you decide to take a job in the hotel or catering industry later, you can also complete your apprenticeship as an adult.
But even without traditional training, many doors are open to you in the hotel and catering industry: Career changers are particularly welcome in the hospitality industry. The main thing is that you are motivated and show commitment and a willingness to learn. You can expand your knowledge with further and advanced training.
One thing is certain: there is no one career path - but many perspectives that suit you and your life.
The question of all questions: Which job suits you?
Now you know the most important jobs - but which one is right for you? It's often only in practice that you find out what you really enjoy.
Our career guide accompanies you step by step in your career search.
Start your career in the hotel and catering industry on Hogastjob
Whether you prefer to work in direct contact with guests, be creative in the kitchen or provide structure in the background - each area brings its own opportunities. You've already taken the first step to find out more. Now all you need to do is choose a top employer, check vacancies and prepare your application. And we'll help you with all of this.
What you always wanted to know about working in the hotel and catering industry
Not necessarily. Although many start with an apprenticeship or training, a lateral entry is often possible in the hotel and catering industry. The most important factors are motivation, commitment and a willingness to learn.
Jobs in service, the kitchen or housekeeping are particularly good places to start. Over time, you will gain practical experience and confidence.
Working hours are often flexible and are generally based on opening and operating hours. This means that you may often work evenings and weekends in some areas such as service or the kitchen. There are also early shifts in housekeeping and reception. On the other hand, you often have time off during the week and can organize your daily routine more flexibly.
The salary depends heavily on the profession, your practice, the company and the location. In Austria, salaries in the hotel and catering industry are regulated by a collective agreement. Tips can also increase your income.
By the way: Many of our premium employers also pay collectively.
