1. Resorts and Hotels

The nitty-gritty: When the snowbirds land in town, resort and hotel staffing expands to meet them, sometimes even doubling rosters. There's a broad sweep of jobs that might be up your alley. These can range from greeting diners at restaurants with a warm, welcoming smile to bartending, waitressing, housekeeping, valet services, front desk staff and more. The work, for the most part, demands a smooth, outgoing personality. Expect to spend time on your feet. A calm, take-charge attitude will come in handy when complaints must be dealt with quickly and professionally.
The hours: Part-time and full-time positions are typically available in all shifts, Weekends and school spring breaks are peak periods, when extra hands are needed.
Median pay: The pay scale is $8 to $15 an hour, plus tips, but varies widely by type of establishment, size and location.
Qualifications: Communicate with people in a pleasant way, basic computer knowledge, and seamless phone manners are top of the list. In general, these are hospitality positions, so restaurant or service is a plus. The tourist metro areas around cities such as Sarasota, Orlando and Naples in Florida, or Tucson, Ariz., and Taos, N.M., in the Southwest are likely to have the most openings. First stop on your job hunt: Large hotel chains such as Marriott, the Ritz-Carlton and Westin Hotels and Resorts. Your catchphrase: Welcome to paradise. What can I do for you?

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