Unique seasonal jobs you’ve probably never considered
How will holiday shopping impact the economy?
The National Retail Federation predicts that winter holiday sales will reach almost $1 trillion in November and December, but how will that impact the economy? The rate of spending growth is expected to be about 2.5 to 3.5%, that's the slowest jump since 2018. LiveNOW's Christina Evans discussed holiday spending and the economy.
What are some unique seasonal jobs for the holidays?
LOS ANGELES - While many associate seasonal work with bustling retail stores or holiday restaurants, there are plenty of creative options that go beyond the ordinary. Whether you're looking for something outdoors, artistic, or adventurous, these roles stand out as excellent opportunities to earn extra cash while enjoying the festive season.
Why consider a non-traditional seasonal job?
Unconventional seasonal jobs often provide flexibility, creativity, and the chance to step away from the holiday rush. These roles not only help with extra income but also allow you to gain new experiences and skills that you can carry forward.
RELATED: Seasonal jobs: Here’s who’s hiring for the holidays in 2024
Unique seasonal jobs to explore this year
Here are some of the best options for unique seasonal employment in 2024:
Holiday Decorator
- Design and install decorations for homes and businesses.
- Typically pays $15–$30/hour depending on experience.
- Check local decorating companies or platforms like TaskRabbit.
National Park Seasonal Worker
- Positions range from guiding tours to supporting conservation efforts.
- Available through CoolWorks or individual park websites.
- Great for nature enthusiasts who enjoy outdoor work.
Event Photographer
- Capture moments at parties, corporate events, or community gatherings.
- An excellent choice for budding photographers to build their portfolio.
- Platforms like Thumbtack help connect photographers with clients.
Gift Wrapper
- Provide wrapping services at malls, department stores, or as an independent service.
- Requires creativity and attention to detail.
- Reach out to local stores or advertise your services on social media.
Christmas Tree Farm Worker
- Help with cutting, loading, and selling trees.
- Most farms hire through local classifieds or job boards like Indeed.
FILE - A worker stacks up trees at the Enchanted Forest lot in Anaheim Hills.
RELATED: UPS hiring 125K seasonal workers: Here's who else is hiring for the holidays
Santa’s Helper/Elf
- Assist Santa at malls or holiday events.
- Perfect for those who enjoy engaging with children and spreading holiday cheer.
- Look for postings on sites like Snagajob.
Holiday Light Tour Guide
- Lead groups through scenic light displays in cities or neighborhoods.
- Some companies hire tour guides seasonally, or you can offer freelance tours.
Seasonal Chef or Caterer
- Cook for holiday parties or help cater events.
- Often requires culinary experience and is best sourced through local catering companies.
What to expect from these roles?
Most of these jobs offer flexible hours and competitive pay but may require some specific skills or interests. Holiday decorators and event photographers, for instance, demand creativity, while working on a Christmas tree farm involves physical labor.
Where to find these opportunities?
- Use job boards like Indeed or ZipRecruiter.
- Check niche sites like CoolWorks for outdoor jobs.
- Search local classifieds or community boards for specialized roles.
Why now is the best time to apply for seasonal jobs
Hiring for seasonal positions often begins in late October and peaks in early December. Applying now ensures you secure a role before the holiday rush.
The Source: This article references data from CoolWorks, Thumbtack, TaskRabbit, and insights from recent job postings on platforms like Indeed and ZipRecruiter. Additional context was drawn from previous FOX reporting.