Autumn in Chamonix is the point where summer winds down, the temperatures drop, and attention turns firmly towards winter. It’s also the time of year when seasonal recruitment really begins — making it the ideal moment to update your CV and start applying for winter season jobs in Chamonix.

If you’re hoping to work a ski season for the first time or you’re returning for another winter in the mountains, many employers begin advertising roles from early autumn onwards. Applying early can make a big difference, particularly for popular positions in hospitality, chalet operations, retail, and ski-related services.

Why do a Winter Season in Chamonix?

If you’re considering working a winter season in the Alps, Chamonix is often high on the list — and for good reason. With its year-round mountain town atmosphere, varied terrain, and international community, it offers a very different experience from purpose-built ski resorts.

A winter season in Chamonix isn’t just about skiing or snowboarding (although that certainly helps). Many seasonal workers are drawn by the lifestyle: living in a real town, working alongside people from all over the world, and having access to winter sports, climbing, trail running, and après-ski — often all in the same week.

Through our blog, accommodation listings, and social channels, we share practical insights into living and working in the valley, from seasonal jobs and housing to everyday life in Chamonix. If you’re researching whether this is the right place for your winter abroad, you’re already in the right place.

Below, we’ll run through some of the most common winter season jobs in Chamonix, along with who typically fills them and what to expect from each role.

Chalet host

Working as a chalet host is one of the most common winter season jobs in Chamonix. The role focuses on looking after both the chalet and the guests, with responsibilities that usually include cleaning, food preparation, serving meals, and general day to day upkeep across one or more properties.

Chalet hosts typically work six days a week and most weekends during peak season. It is a demanding role and flexibility is essential. Contracts often require you to assist wherever needed, so this is not a laid back position. That said, it can be very rewarding for the right person.

Most chalet host roles include accommodation, meals, and often a ski pass. With good organisation, it is usually possible to ski between breakfast service and afternoon or evening preparation. Tips are also common, particularly in higher end chalets.

A more flexible alternative is working as a self employed cleaner for a local agency. This can offer more control over working hours, although accommodation and lift passes are not usually included.

Ideal candidate profile

The ideal candidate speaks fluent English, which is the main working language for international guests, and has basic to advanced French skills. Previous experience in hospitality is essential, including work in restaurants or hotels. Knowledge of service etiquette is expected, and silver service experience is a bonus.

Kitchen staff

Kitchen staff are consistently in high demand in Chamonix during the winter season. Roles range from chalet chefs and commis chefs to kitchen porters and dishwashers, with opportunities in hotels, restaurants, and catered chalets across the valley.

Anyone with previous kitchen experience should aim to negotiate accommodation as part of their package, as housing is often more valuable than a higher hourly wage during peak winter months.

Dishwashing and kitchen porter roles are popular with people who want to maximise time on the mountain, as shifts often start after the ski lifts close. This makes it possible to ski most days while still working regular hours in the evening.

Ideal candidate profile

The ideal candidate has some prior kitchen experience and is comfortable working in a fast paced environment. Reliability, willingness to work long hours, and the ability to take direction are more important than formal qualifications, particularly for entry level roles.

Driver

There is steady demand for professional drivers in Chamonix throughout the winter season. Many companies operate airport transfers, resort shuttles, and private ski transport between chalets, hotels, and the ski areas.

Driving roles can be intense during peak weeks, with early starts, long days, and challenging road conditions. A calm approach and strong mountain driving skills are essential, particularly during heavy snowfall and busy changeover days.

Ideal candidate profile

A D1 licence is highly desirable. In its absence, most employers and Geneva airport authorities require drivers using a standard driving licence to prove professional experience transporting passengers in snowy alpine conditions for at least two previous winter seasons.

Patience is a key requirement for this role. You will be dealing with tired travellers, traffic delays, and unpredictable weather, often all at the same time.

Server

As winter arrives and the population of Chamonix increases, demand in bars and restaurants rises sharply. Seasonal roles for servers are widely available throughout the winter, often advertised on short notice. In France, these short term positions are commonly referred to as extras.

Staff turnover in hospitality can be high during the season. Servers often move between venues, which means opportunities come up regularly, but popular places fill vacancies quickly.

Accommodation is the biggest challenge for this type of role. It is common for people to arrive in Chamonix first, stay temporarily with friends or contacts, and secure work before committing to longer term housing. Flexibility in the early weeks can make a big difference.

Ideal candidate profile

A professional appearance, reliability, and a positive attitude are essential. Basic English and French are usually enough for entry level serving roles, particularly in busy tourist venues. Previous hospitality experience is helpful but not always required.

Networking is key. Many serving jobs are filled through word of mouth, so being present, available, and known locally often matters as much as experience.

Handy(wo)man

Physical and practical roles are always needed in Chamonix during the winter season. This can range from door staff in bars and clubs during busy après ski periods to maintenance and handyman roles for chalets, hotels, and accommodation providers.

These jobs suit people with a broad skill set who can adapt quickly to different situations. One day you might be fixing a heating issue or clearing snow, the next you could be helping manage a busy venue or dealing with unexpected problems.

Ideal candidate profile

Strength and physical capability are useful, but temperament matters more. Employers look for calm, reliable people with a steady presence who can de escalate situations and solve problems efficiently.

Candidates are often slightly older and bring experience from a variety of roles. Being practical, adaptable, and trusted to handle responsibility is key. Tasks can range from managing difficult customers to sorting out everyday maintenance issues.

These roles usually include at least two days off per week, but you are often expected to be on call. In chalet based positions, you may also be asked to drive guests around the resort using a company vehicle.

Winter season in Chamonix: Updating your CV

Seasonal work in Chamonix attracts people who want to work efficiently and spend as much time on the mountain as possible. Recruitment reflects that mindset. Employers are busy, applications are high, and attention spans are short.

Your CV for winter season jobs in Chamonix should be clear, relevant, and no longer than one page. Focus on practical experience, availability, and any skills that directly relate to the role. Long introductions and generic descriptions rarely help.

Your application email matters just as much as your CV. Keep it short, direct, and easy to read. Say who you are, what role you are applying for, when you are available, and why you are a good fit. Avoid buzzwords and corporate language.

Other places to apply

• Pôle Emploi: If you can read and speak French confidently, the French employment service is a useful resource for seasonal job hunting. You can set up alerts for roles in specific locations and sectors.
• The Chamonix Town Hall: Seasonal jobs are still advertised the old fashioned way in Chamonix. The physical notice board is located in the alley opposite Boardriders in central Chamonix and is usually updated once a week.
• Being in Chamonix makes a huge difference. Arriving during the quieter periods of autumn or early winter gives you time to network before peak season starts, and accommodation prices are generally lower. Booking a short stay allows you to meet employers face to face, introduce yourself, and hear about roles before they are advertised more widely.

If you need more advice on getting ready for a winter season Chamonix, check out our previous blog post on What you need to know for a ski season in Chamonix.