Seasonal jobs in Mauritius: Your first step into work
Seasonal jobs appeal to a wide range of people, whether you are a student looking to earn some extra pocket money, a professional who wants to save up for festive shopping, a career switcher aiming to get hands-on training or a freelancer who enjoys moving between different types of active work. You want to know more about seasonal jobs in Mauritius? Read on.
1. What are seasonal jobs?
A seasonal job is a temporary position offered during certain times of the year when businesses need extra staff. These jobs usually last from weeks to several months, depending on the employer’s needs. Most openings are at supermarkets, retail shops, shopping malls, coastal resorts, tour operators, waiters and receptionists, among others. These temporary jobs are perfect for beginners with no CV or experience. Also, the working hours range from early mornings to night shifts.
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2. Why seasonal jobs are the perfect first steps into work
It can feel really daunting for students who have just finished their School Certificate (SC) or Higher School Certificate (HSC) to jump into the adult working world. Taking a temporary role can provide a smoother transition for them.
2.1. Earn your own money
If you are a school leaver, it is a milestone to stop relying on your parents and start earning your own money. You can buy your own stuff, such as clothing and food, and become more independent. Also, businesses are much busier during peak periods, so you often get the opportunity to work extra hours and earn overtime pay.
2.2. Gain experience to put on your CV
Seasonal jobs are sometimes underrated for their potential to improve employability. Some people even think that the experience they provide doesn’t really count. In reality, it’s the other way around. Hiring managers and recruiters value these roles, because they demonstrate a candidate’s adaptability, work ethic and willingness to learn. These temporary positions become far more important for school leavers, who have nothing to show on their CV in terms of experience.
2.3. Discover which sector suits you
A lot of young graduates do not have any clue about the kind of job they want to do. Seasonal positions help to give them a better understanding of the working environment. Instead of guessing or listening to people, they step out and gain real-world experience. Temporary jobs also act as a low-risk trial, since they come with a built-in expiration date. On the other hand, a full-time permanent job may feel intimidating for newbies.
2.4. Build contacts and get a reference
Even if seasonal jobs last between 1 and 3 months, it can be very rewarding in terms of networking. Working during these intense periods implies liaising with different team members and managers, who get to see your work ethic in real time. Ensure that you are acting in a friendly and professional manner towards each of your peers. Who knows, you might work together again in the future. Also, deliver excellent customer service. You may get noticed at any time and receive unexpected offers from outside companies.
3. The most popular seasonal jobs in Mauritius
Mauritius attracts a significant number of tourists from November to January and it is almost the same pattern every year. This period is aligned with the school holidays, which explains why most spots are full of tourists and locals.
Shopping malls like Grand Baie La Croisette and Bagatelle Mall experience massive crowds during these months. Major clothing brands, cosmetic shops and tech retailers take on additional staff, particularly students and school leavers. Coastal resorts across the island also recruit in huge numbers for positions including animation staff, kids’ club minders and guest welcomers.
Concerning the food service industry, seasonal workers are in high demand for roles like waiters, kitchen assistants and hostesses. There is a kind of rush in restaurants for tasks such as taking orders and managing heavy table rotations.
The supermarket and grocery sector is also very busy during the festive season. Hypermarkets get a lot of customers, so the shelves need to remain fully packed with all kinds of goods. Stockers and inventory assistants are needed for that.
4. Seasonal employment: Eligibility, pay and working conditions
If you are thinking of getting a seasonal job, it is important to understand your legal protections, age limits and pay structures before you start. As per the Workers’ Rights Act, the minimum working age in Mauritius is 16 years old. That said, workers under the age of 18 cannot be placed on night shifts between 10:00 pm and 5:00 am. They also cannot take part in any hazardous duty.
As for the national minimum wage of Rs 17,745 per month, it is only applicable to full-time workers. Seasonal contracts often offer remuneration on a pro-rata basis as an hourly or daily rate. Always negotiate the exact pay rate and overtime multiplier with your employer before you commit to anything.
It is also recommended to ask for a clear employment agreement in writing beforehand. A verbal agreement is not enough to protect your rights. As for the details to include in your contract, ensure that it clearly states your start and end dates, expected shift hours and payment schedules.
5. How to find seasonal jobs in Mauritius?
Finding a seasonal job in Mauritius is easier than most people think. Employers start recruiting a few weeks before the festive season, so it is better to start your search early. Also, you do not need a fancy CV to apply. Most companies are simply looking for motivated people who are available during the busy period. Here are the steps to follow.
5.1. Create your free MyJob profile
The first step is to register on MyJob. It is free and quick to do. Your profile works like a simple introduction to employers, so make sure your name, location and phone number are correct. Also, think about your availability beforehand, for example weekends only or the whole season, as you will be asked to choose what suits you when you apply. Even if you have never worked before, a clear and complete profile shows recruiters that you are serious about finding a job.
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5.2. Browse seasonal jobs near you
MyJob has a dedicated seasonal jobs page where you can filter offers by region, from Port-Louis and Plaines Wilhems to Grand Port and Black River. Working close to home saves you time and transport costs, which matters a lot when the contract only lasts a few weeks. Read each job description carefully before applying. Check the dates, the working hours and the location, and make sure you are available for the whole period mentioned by the employer.
5.3. Set up job alerts
Several positions can be filled very quickly. To avoid missing out, set up job alerts on MyJob. You simply choose your job category and salary range, and matching offers are sent straight to your phone for free. This way, you do not need to check the website every day. As soon as a new opening matches what you are looking for, you can apply right away.
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5.4. Apply early
A lot of people wait until December to look for a holiday job. By then, many employers have already built their teams. Malls, hotels and supermarkets usually start hiring before the festive rush, so the best time to apply is from the beginning of November. Also, applying on MyJob takes around 60 seconds and you do not need a CV. There is really no reason to wait until the last minute.
5.5. Keep your phone on
Seasonal recruiters work fast and many of them contact candidates by phone. If they cannot reach you, they will simply move on to the next person on their list. After applying, keep your phone charged and answer unknown numbers politely. Also, check your messages regularly so you never miss a call back. It may sound like a small detail, but it can make all the difference between getting the job and missing it.
5.6. Prepare for a short interview
Some employers will invite you for a quick interview before hiring you. Do not stress about it. For seasonal jobs, recruiters are not expecting a perfect candidate. They mostly want to check your availability, your attitude and your motivation. Prepare a short introduction about yourself and think about why you want the job. Dress neatly and arrive a few minutes early. If you need more help, read our guide on how to stand out in a job interview.
6. Tips to make a great impression at your seasonal job
Getting the job is only the first step. The way you behave during those few weeks can open many doors for you. Contrary to what some people think, employers do not expect you to know everything from day one. They will explain your tasks and show you what to do. What they expect in return is quite simple. Show up on time, follow instructions and be respectful towards your colleagues and customers.
Also, do not be afraid to ask questions when you are unsure about something. It is always better than making a mistake in front of a customer. Keep your phone away during your shift and stay positive, even on the busiest days. Peak periods can be tiring, but a good attitude is often what managers remember the most. At the end of your contract, do not hesitate to ask your supervisor for a reference letter. It will be very useful for your future applications.
7. After the season: Turning your seasonal job into your next opportunity
A seasonal job does not necessarily end when the holidays are over. Some employers keep their best temporary staff or call them back for the next busy period. If you enjoyed the experience, let your manager know that you would be interested in staying on. Also, update your CV as soon as your contract ends, while the details are still fresh in your mind. Mention your role, the tasks you handled and the skills you developed, such as customer service, teamwork or cash handling.
Your next step will depend on your situation. Students can look for internships to build on what they learnt during the season. If you are ready for your first full-time job, the My First Job section on My Job lists companies that hire candidates with no previous experience. As for HSC holders, it is also worth looking into the Youth Employment Programme (YEP), which offers training and work placements for young unemployed people.
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