What Is It Like to Work at a Hotel?
Working in a hotel is a great way to gain real workplace experience, build skills employers value and discover where a career in hospitality could take you.
Thinking about working in a hotel?
A hotel can be one of the best places to start your career. Whether you're looking for your first job or wanting to gain real workplace experience, you'll build valuable transferable skills while discovering the wide range of opportunities available in the hospitality industry.
Hotels are made up of many different teams, so whether you enjoy working with people, cooking or being behind the scenes, there's likely a role that's right for you.
Many of the world's leading hotel brands, including Marriott International, offer entry-level opportunities that can lead to long-term careers across hospitality, tourism, events and business.
Could This Be for You?
If you:
- Are looking for your first job
- Enjoy working with people
- Want to build confidence and workplace skills
- Like being part of a team
- Are interested in hospitality
A hotel could be a great place to start.
Ready to take the next step?
Explore current hotel opportunities with My First Job.
Breakfast Attendant
Breakfast Attendants help create a great start to every guest's day by providing friendly service in the hotel's restaurant.
What you might do:
- Welcome and seat guests
- Serve food and drinks
- Clear and reset tables
- Answer guest questions
- Help keep the restaurant clean and organised
Great if you...
- Enjoy talking to people
- Like working in a fast-paced environment
- Want to build confidence in customer service
Kitchen & Pastry
Kitchen and Pastry team members help prepare the food served throughout the hotel, from breakfast and room service to desserts and special events.
What you might do
- Prepare ingredients
- Help plate meals and desserts
- Keep the kitchen clean and organised
- Support chefs during busy service periods
Great if you...
- Enjoy cooking or baking
- Like working behind the scenes
- Work well as part of a team
Hotel Porter
Hotel Porters are often the first people guests meet when they arrive. They help create a welcoming first impression and assist guests throughout their stay.
What you might do:
- Welcome guests on arrival
- Assist with luggage
- Deliver guest requests to rooms
- Provide directions and helpful information
Great if you...
- Enjoy helping people
- Like being active
- Present yourself professionally
Why Start in Hospitality?
Working in a hotel helps you develop transferable skills that employers in every industry value, including communication, teamwork, customer service, time management, problem solving and professionalism.
Many people who start in entry-level hotel jobs go on to careers in restaurants, culinary, events, guest services, sales, marketing, finance, human resources and hotel management.
Global hotel brands such as Marriott International also provide opportunities to build a long-term career across different hotels, cities and even countries.
Looking for a Summer Job in Melbourne?
My First Job has partnered with The Westin Melbourne, a luxury hotel in Melbourne's CBD and part of Marriott International, one of the world's leading hospitality companies, to recruit for a range of paid summer opportunities.
Whether you're looking for your first job or wanting to gain real workplace experience, this is your chance to work alongside experienced hospitality professionals, build valuable workplace skills and experience what it's like to be part of a world-class hotel.
Think this could be for you? Apply now!
Frequently Asked Questions
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The minimum age depends on the employer and the role. Some entry-level hotel jobs are available to school students, while others may require you to be older because of the duties involved.
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No. Many entry-level hotel jobs are designed for people applying for their first job. Employers are usually looking for a positive attitude, reliability and a willingness to learn. Training is provided on the job.
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Yes. Many students work in hotels after school, on weekends and during school holidays. Employers often offer shifts that can fit around your school commitments.
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Hotels operate seven days a week, including weekends and public holidays, so shifts vary depending on the role. Breakfast Attendants often work early morning shifts, while Kitchen & Pastry and Hotel Porter roles may include morning, afternoon, evening or weekend shifts. Your employer will discuss expected hours and your availability during the recruitment process.
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Most hotels provide a uniform or have a dress standard for employees. You'll receive everything you need to know before you start.
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Hotels value people who are reliable, friendly, professional and willing to learn. A positive attitude, good communication and the ability to work well as part of a team are often more important than previous experience.
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Absolutely. Many hotel managers and leaders started in entry-level roles. Hospitality offers opportunities to build a long-term career in Australia and overseas.
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