Great Summer Jobs for Retirees

1. Ballparks

The nitty-gritty: The boys of summer are calling. Ballparks around the country are scouting for seasonal ushers, ticket takers, box office attendants, ballpark guides, cashiers, bartenders, suite attendants, in-seat servers, concession stand workers and more. In general, these jobs are not for fans longing to stretch out in the bleachers and marvel at the action on the diamond. Pausing to watch a line drive is permissible, of course, but you're frequently on the move. You'll need to know your way around the ballpark. Some positions can require standing for long stretches and facing the mercurial elements that Mother Nature throws out.
 
The hours: Flexible schedules are offered. Availability for the majority of home games during the 2011 schedule is often a prerequisite. Days, nights, weekends, holidays are possible. Average shifts: 3 hours for in-seat food and beer vendors, 4-1/2 hours for guides.

Median pay range: $8 to $11.50 an hour. In-seat food and beer vendors might pull in a minimum $7.40 and hour, plus commissions for an average $25 an hour.

Qualifications: Managers like signing workers with a love and knowledge of the game. Advance training is provided. An outgoing and fan-friendly personality is essential, especially if you're in a position of meeting and greeting fans as you scan tickets, usher them to seats or give directions to the nearest concession stand. This is show biz. Ticket sellers are expected to understand the seating layout of the ballpark and ticket prices. Background checks will be performed. Tap into your hometown team's official website for openings. Team-by-team contact information can be found at Major League Baseball's site. Look for your city's team-sponsored job fairs in the spring. Play ball!

Love the open road and the great outdoors? Look no further. >>