Work in France

If you are looking to work in Europe then there really isn't a much better destination than France. With world famous cities, tasty food, a warm summer climate and lots of different industries you can find seasonal-jobs-working-holidays in there are lots of reasons why you might want to consider working here.

France has the 5th largest economy in the world, finding work especially if you speak basic French isn't too difficult. You will get to experience the culture, meet new people, get paid and see more of the country in your spare time. 

If you are a student or graduate seeking a new challenge or a career in France there are lots of temporary, summer, flexible live-out and full time positions available to apply for all year round. 

So whether you are looking for a summer position, planning to spend a gap year in France and would like to stay longer, or are seeking a professional job to start or boost a future career search recommended recruiters and positions.

Our directory features information, jobs and employers for foreigners seeking employment in France and you can search seasonal vacancies, short term and temporary employment for EU citizens, English speakers and foreigners.

 

Top Reasons to Work in France

There are so many great reasons to work in France including:

  • Experience working and living in a new culture
  • You will make new professional 
  • So many different roles available
  • Boost your bank balance
  • Make new friends
  • Learn French
  • See more of the country
  • Sample the tasty local food

 

Popular Places to Seek Employment

  • Paris
  • Nice
  • Montpellier
  • Lyon
  • Nice
  • French Alps
  • Aix-en-Provence
  • Grenoble, Hyeres
  • Montpellier
  • Perpignan
  • Toulouse

 

How to Get A Job in France

There really is a lot of choice when it comes to applying, from winter ski jobs, to fruit picking at farms, working at a campsite or holiday resort or spending time living in a world famous city like Paris where you could gain employment as a babysitter, nanny or teacher. If you are lacking experience you could apply to intern in France.

 

Summer Jobs in France 

Find seasonal positions throughout France and arrange the summer of your life. You could apply to work as an au-pair, babysitter, nanny or teacher - these are not really summer specific but can be joined for just a few months. There are various vacancies at campsites, activity centres and holiday resorts which are very popular.

Summer jobs in France are usually very popular with students and you will need to apply early as employment spots fill up quick. Jobs can be found throughout the country, where you work really comes down to personal preference or what role you want to apply for. Here is a general guide to the most popular locations:

  • Cities - Paris, Nice, Bordeaux and Marselle are popular places for work experience, teaching, nanny and professional jobs
  • French Alps - Most winter ski positions are found here
  • Rural Areas - Some jobs e.g. farm work can be found in very remote areas of the country
  • Coastal Locations - Holiday resorts, caravan campsites

 

Activity Instructor & Camp Jobs in France

There are also jobs at activity centres which educates hundreds of British youngsters over the summer break. They offer language and sports programs where you can be leading fun lessons and working with over 100 children every weekend.

This job is a lot of fun, its also a great way to live in and see more of France. Centres welcome school groups throughout summer and aim to give them the best time possible, they are one of the most popular activity centres in Europe!

During summer they hire international staff for a number of roles where you can teach lessons, instruct sports or become a team leader. These are great hands of work experience roles which are perfect if you are looking for a summer job abroad, you will need to be fun, creative and energetic.

There are also lots of jobs behind the scenes for example working in the kitchen or even helping with the maintenance and up keep of the large property and gardens.

 

Winter and Ski Jobs in France 

Apply to work a winter ski season in France! On our directory you can read more information, search employers and apply. 

Location of Positions
We have local and international companies listed on our website including UK based hiring companies. You could apply to work a winter ski season in places like Les Gets in the Portes du Soleil area which are two popular choices. Other resorts and places include Chamonix, Alpe d'Huez, Courchevel, Les Arcs, Meribel, Les Menuires, Serre-Chevalier, Val Thorens, La Plagne and Tignes.

It can be difficult to get a job in Val d'Isere, this is a really popular location and you might struggle to gain a job here. A good alternative destination is Les Arcs, here there is fantastic skiing and your chances of gaining employment will be better. You might also want to book a ski instructor course.

Why Apply
There are so many reasons you should consider working a ski season in France, imagine waking up and working on pristine alps with everyone on holiday enjoying themselves. Taking time out to work a ski season in France can easily be one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences you can have, and a lot better than a normal 9-5 job. The benefit is you is you will meet new people from all over the world and have a lot of fun! These jobs can include long hours and be quite tiring but the benefits far out weigh the negatives.

How to Get Hired
These jobs are some of the most popular seasonal work opportunities in the world, you will need to apply at least 3 months indvance to give yourself the best chance of getting hired. You can contact employers through our website above or browse online listings and check ski company websites direct in April, May and June. Interviews usually take place well in advance of a starting contract during summer and companies like to have vacancies filled well in advance of September. 

Advice for Applying Last Minute or on Arrival
Don't panic if you are making a last minute decesion, a lot of people usually drop out for one reason or another and so as the season starts there are usually vacancies to be found. If you are trying to be independent you can just turn up at resorts and apply locally. This can have mixed results and make sure you have enough money in your bank to cover yourself as ski resort locations can be expensive.

Be preapred to put a lot of hard work in too, sometimes there are few jobs available and so its important you get talking to the right people (bar managers, chalet staff, tour operator staff) - these people might be the key to you finding a job.

The Application Process
• Apply online: get your CV/cover letter filled with relevant and promotional information
• Attend an interview: attend and hopefully make a good impression to make yourself stand out
• Get hired, sign a contract and get your start date and location

Chalet Work
There are lots of chalet and resort jobs where you can work hard and then spend plenty of time on the slopes. You could apply direct to privately owned chalets, they are looking to hire chalet hosts, chefs and a resort managers for winter 2016 ski season. A lot of ski companies hire couples and friends to work in chalets please check all options before applying as there are lots of different jobs. They usually include free accommodation and food too which is a bonus. This is an amazing opportunity to live and work in some of the best ski areas in the world.

Wages
Sometimes the wages can vary and don't expect the greatest amount of money but this is as much about the experience than the pay. You will be paid weekly and there is a bonus at the end of the season whilst included is a accommodation, food, a lift pass, ski & snowboard hire and more. If you want to have some time away and refresh yourself or do something different like working abroad then definately think about working in France, this will be an invaluable experience. 

 

FAQ

Eligibility
If you are from a country in the EU you are free to enter and work anywhere in France for as long or as short as you like. If you live overseas you are required by law to gain a work permit. Working illegally in France is risky and if caught you will face a severe penalty. Most companies welcome job applications for students, graduates or anyone with any relevant experience, if this sounds appealing to you think about applying. You might need a basic level of French for most positions whether entry level or more experienced. Buying a phrase book or even joining language lessons when in country.

Salaries
How much you get paid really depends on where you work and what job you do. The minimum hourly wage in France stands at €9.43 and it applies to you just as much as to any French worker. Some jobs have fixed contracts whilst other are very flexible with temporary start and finish dates.

Accommodation
Some companies offer jobs with free accommodation, whilst others you will need to cover this yourself.