If you think working in a hotel just means checking people in and fluffing pillows, think again. Hotels are like mini-cities — bustling, unpredictable and full of opportunities to build a career that’s anything but boring.
Whether you’re starting fresh or making a career change, here’s your no-nonsense guide to making it in the hotel industry.
For tourism and hospitality employers, this means it’s more important than ever to keep a close eye on compliance with wage and employment laws. Pay attention to correct classifications, overtime, leave entitlements, and make sure your payroll systems are up to scratch.
With the increased focus on fair pay, businesses must create a culture of transparency and ethical practices to protect their reputation and avoid legal trouble.
Here’s a quick rundown of the essentials you need to know:
Start at the bottom
Most hotel careers kick off in entry-level roles, and guess what? It’s a great opportunity to get hands on experience. Front desk agent, housekeeper, waiter — these gigs give you a front-row seat to the inner workings of a hotel.
And in this industry, hard work and a good attitude get noticed. Many hotel managers started by slinging bags at the concierge desk or serving up coffee at breakfast.
Find your niche
Hotels have so many different departments, there’s a role for almost every skill set.
Love people? Front office, concierge, guest relations or food and beverage could be your calling.
More of a behind-the-scenes operator? Housekeeping, maintenance, or finance might be your jam.
Creative at heart? Events, marketing, or food & beverage could be your perfect fit.
Obsessed with order and structure? HR, reservations, or revenue management might be right up your alley.
Move up (and fast!)
Unlike some industries where you need to sit in the same chair for a decade before getting a promotion, hotels reward initiative. Prove you can handle responsibility, and you might find yourself climbing the ranks quicker than you think.
Many hotels offer structured career development programs, meaning you could go from entry-level to management in just a few years.
Get the right training
Formal qualifications aren’t always required but can give you an advantage. Certificates, diplomas or university degrees in hospitality or hotel management can set you apart, and obtaining a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certification can also be beneficial.
Our careers guide (which you can download here) outlines a range of vocational training courses, traineeships and university courses available in Western Australia. We have highlighted them here (see box).
Many Western Australian hotels also offer on-the-job training and leadership programs — so keep your eyes open for opportunities to upskill. Check the websites of the bigger hotels, such as Accor, Marriott International, IHG and Crown Resorts, for dedicated employment and training programs.
V O C A T I O N A L T R A I N I N G
- Certificate II in Hospitality (Course Code: SIT20322)
- Certificate III in Hospitality (SIT30622)
- Certificate III in Hospitality – (Restaurant Front of House) (SIT30722)
- Certificate IV in Hospitality (SIT40422)
- Diploma in Hospitality Management (SIT50422)
- Advanced Diploma in Hospitality Management (SIT60122)
T R A I N E E S H I P S
- Hospitality (Accommodation Services) – Certificate III in Hospitality (SIT30622)
- Hospitality (Food and Beverage) – Certificate III in Hospitality (SIT30622)
- General Front of House – Certificate III in Hospitality (Restaurant Front of House) (SIT30722)
- Hospitality Operations – Certificate II in Hospitality (SIT20322)
- Hospitality Operations – Certificate III in Hospitality (SIT30622)
- Hospitality (Supervision) – Certificate IV in Hospitality (SIT40422)
U N I V E R S I T Y C O U R S E S
- Bachelor of Commerce, International Hotel and Resort Management Major at Edith Cowan University
- Bachelor of Commerce, Tourism and Hospitality Major at Curtin University
- Bachelor of Business, Tourism and Hospitality Major at Murdoch University
- Bachelor of Arts, Tourism and Major at Murdoch
- Masters of International Hospitality Management at Edith Cowan
The perks
While you should never set your sights on a job because you’ll get free stuff, hotel careers come with some serious perks. Think travel opportunities, discounts on stays, and the chance to work in stunning locations.
Plus, you’ll meet people from all over the world and pick up skills that are useful in any career — customer service, problem-solving, and the fine art of staying calm when everything goes sideways.
So, if you’re looking for a career with variety, opportunity and a little bit of glamour, the hotel industry might just be your perfect match.