Is a “snowbird” job for you? When the weather begins to turn colder, many northerners start thinking about heading south for the winter. Along with spending the cold months in a warmer climate, many also look for a job to pass the time or to help pay their expenses while away from home. Could this be you?
Boomers are the New Snowbirds
Baby boomers are taking over the snowbird population. According to AARP, today the majority of snowbirds are between the ages of 50 and 69: the baby boomers. This generation is known to be active and they tend to have disposable income, are well-educated, and adapt to the snowbird lifestyle very well.
If you are relocating to a warmer climate such as Florida, Arizona, Texas, Las Vagas, Hawaii, and California to avoid the winter chill you might want to consider some unique employment opportunities available to you.
Disney, for example, does brisk hiring for its theme parks during winter months to handle the influx of tourists. That is just the tip of the iceberg for both full-time and part-time jobs available. Think resorts, freelance work, and more.
Snowbird Job Options
1. Resort and Theme Park Positions
Theme parks are always in need of extra help. Especially during winter months when college student workers are back in school. Seasonal openings can include anything from assisting customers on and off rides, working in a gift shop, greeting airport arrivals, to handling castmembers wardrobes. A few snowbirds have even suited up as costumed characters! (Be aware, these positions require auditions, and you must be willing and able to spend time standing to sign autographs and pose for photos.)
Resorts of all shapes and sizes across the Sunbelt increase their staff during winter months. You might find work in any number of capacities, from bartender, gardener, or spa worker to parking valet or room cleaner.
2. Freelance Work
Put your past work experience in the 9 – 5 world out there and develop a consulting business. You can work when it suits you and you are not geographically bound. You can continue working year-round regardless of where you are living.
3. Spring Training Staff
Spring training camps for Major League Baseball teams in Arizona and Florida have a range of possible positions: ushering, selling programs, selling peanuts and popcorn, or sales in the team merchandise shop.
Some jobs require more expertise than others. For instance, the Pittsburgh Pirates had a recent posting for a seasonal sales assistant who would take an active role in marketing and special promotions. Some duties might not be exciting, but the chance to work in an area that is fun and entertaining might be the perfect snowbird job for you.
4. Travel Nurse
Registered nurses and licensed practical nurses are in high demand at hospitals and doctors’ offices in Florida and Arizona during the winter months.
The majority of travel nursing assignments run for 13 weeks — often with the option of extending the term to six months. You must have a travel-nursing license to practice in each state.
5. Substitute Teaching
If you hold a college degree, most states allow you to substitute teach in a classroom for daily wages. Depending on the state, you might have to apply for the state-approved certification.
6. Housesitting
Living in other people’s homes while they are on vacation can be lucrative and take care of your housing issues while you are enjoying a warmer climate. Trusted Housesitters is a great place to learn more.
7. Be A Pet Sitter
If you enjoy spending time with animals, this growing industry might be a perfect fit for you. You can be a dog walker or actually stay in the home with pets when owners are away. Check out DogVacay for more information on both options.
There are dozens of other snowbird job opportunities, these are popular ones that came to mind. Whatever you decide to do to take care of your finances and free time, becoming a snowbird can be a great experience. It can be a great option for people suffering from seasonal depression or those who just hate the cold. If you plan correctly, it is absolutely possible to become a snowbird before the age of 65 in preparation for your final retirement.
Need Help Preparing to Apply for a Snowbird Job?
Should you need help preparing a resume for a snowbird job or any other position, don’t hesitate to contact Rachel at YourCareerFind.com and schedule a consultation.