Finding Seasonal Work in the UK: Job Advice & CV Tips

If you're a student, a recent graduate, or an international individual seeking part-time work, why not consider a seasonal job? Seasonal work is especially popular in the UK for several reasons, including the relatively straightforward process of obtaining a work visa and faster interview process compared to other countries.

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Businesses frequently require additional assistance during peak times like Christmas or summer holidays. These periods can offer the ideal opportunity to gain experience or earn extra income. For some, the UK is also the perfect place to improve English language skills. Whether you're looking to improve your CV or simply looking for tips on how to land a seasonal job, this article is for you.

In this article, we cover:

• Benefits of seasonal work

• Types of seasonal jobs in the UK

• How to find seasonal work

For more job interview tips, explore our blog or refer to our in-depth article on how to write a good CV.

Benefits of seasonal work in the UK

Whether you're looking for paid experience or volunteer work, seasonal jobs have various benefits. These include: 

• Flexible employment options allow you to choose short-term assignments that align with your availability. This can be particularly advantageous for students, retirees, or individuals seeking additional income during busy seasons.

• If you are a student or recent graduate with no experience, it’s an excellent way to gain hands-on experience in various industries. Whether you're interested in hospitality, retail, agriculture, or tourism, offer a chance to build your skills and CV.

• It can boost your employment prospects by bringing you into contact with a diverse range of people, including co-workers, customers, and supervisors. Building these connections can be valuable for your future career or for finding long-term employment opportunities.

• It allows you to explore different jobs and industries without a long-term commitment. It's an excellent way to discover what you enjoy and where your talents lie.

If you are just starting out or want to change careers, see our article on how to write a CV with no experience. For other job-related scenarios, refer to the below CV examples:

• Internship

• School-leaver

• Apprenticeship

Writing a CV for the first time? No worries, we’re here to help! Discover our best tips and tricks for crafting an impressive CV for your first job!

Types of seasonal jobs in the UK

If you're looking for a short-term job or holiday work experience, you might consider exploring opportunities in the following areas. Although the possibilities are limitless, and the ones listed below are the most common types of seasonal work.

Still studying? We've compiled a list of the best student jobs that can not only help with your finances but also develop must-have skills.

Retail positions are in high demand during the holiday season. Roles include sales associates, cashiers, and customer service representatives. For examples of how to write a CV for such jobs, refer to the following guides.

• Retail CV

• Sales CV

• Shop Assistant CV

• Supermarket CV

Hotels, restaurants, and catering businesses often require extra staff during the Christmas holidays and summer seasons. Jobs in this sector may include servers, bartenders, housekeepers, and front desk staff.

• Hospitality CV

• Chef CV

• Bartender CV

• Waiter/waitress CV

Fruit picking and harvesting jobs are prevalent during the summer and autumn seasons. These roles are often available in rural areas and can provide a unique outdoor work experience.

The tourism industry experiences a surge in demand during the summer season. Jobs in this sector range from tour guides and lifeguards to hotel staff and entertainment roles.

The holiday season is a popular time for events and parties, creating a need for event planners, coordinators, and support staff.

For more CV guides for seasonal work in the UK, refer to the following.

• Nanny

• Security Guard

• Cleaner

How to find seasonal work in the UK

As the list above mentions, there are numerous avenues to explore seasonal work in the UK. For those coming from abroad, refer to the article about seasonal work visa. If you are a UK citizen just looking for summer season jobs, the below resources may be a good start.

• Season Workers.

• Employment 4 students.

• DWP.

• Young Capital.

• Summer camp jobs.

Key takeaways

Seasonal work can be a fulfilling experience and a valuable opportunity to gain experience for many. To make your application stand out, consider including a tailored and matching cover letter. This demonstrates to recruiters and hiring managers that you have invested time in your application and thoroughly reviewed the job description.

Next steps?

Consider using our CV templates to kickstart your job search or easily customise one of our CV examples. You can also find our cover letter templates to complement your CV. Alternatively, connect with our professionals through our CV Writing Services for personalised career document guidance.

FAQ

How much does a seasonal worker make in the UK?

Earnings can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of work, location, and employer.

• Agricultural work: Seasonal agricultural workers, such as those picking fruits and vegetables, are often paid hourly. As of 2024, the National Living Wage (NLW) for workers aged 23 and over is £10.42 per hour. Workers aged 21-22 receive a slightly lower rate.

• Hospitality and tourism: Seasonal jobs in hospitality and tourism, such as those in hotels, restaurants, and theme parks, typically pay around the National Minimum Wage (NMW) or NLW. Tips can significantly boost earnings in hospitality roles, especially in restaurants and bars.

• Retail: Seasonal retail workers, especially around the Christmas period, are usually paid hourly and earn around the NMW or NLW.

• Christmas and summer jobs: Retail and delivery companies often hire additional staff for the Christmas season, while tourist attractions may increase staffing during the summer. These jobs generally offer pay rates similar to those in hospitality and retail.

Is seasonal work open in the UK?

Yes, you can apply for a visa at any time, and as a UK citizen, seasonal work offers many benefits. Keep in mind, the period from January to March would be a good time to start applying for summer work in the UK.

How do I get seasonal work in the UK?

1. Start by looking for seasonal job opportunities through online job portals, company websites, or by contacting recruitment agencies that specialise in seasonal employment.

2. Ensure your CV is up to date and highlights relevant skills or work experience that make you a suitable candidate for the role.

3. Apply to the positions that interest you, and be prepared for interviews or assessments as part of the hiring process.

4. If you are not a UK resident, ensure you have the correct visa.