Greece has long been celebrated as a hotspot for seasonal work, particularly in hospitality and tourism. From bustling island resorts to serene countryside retreats, the country thrives on its visitors.
According to
Statista, Greece’s economy relies heavily on holidaymakers: travel and tourism’s total contribution to GDP in Greece was over 19% in 2023, the third-highest among European Union countries. These markets generated over 800,000 jobs in 2023, and this figure was expected to exceed the one million mark by 2034.
But is Greece’s seasonal job market limited to these well-known industries?
This article takes a closer look at the lesser-explored opportunities that exist beyond hotels and resorts.
What Makes Greece a Hub for Seasonal Work?
Greece’s seasonal economy is shaped by its mild climate, distinct agricultural cycles, and thriving cultural scene. These factors create a high demand for short-term labor across various sectors. While tourism remains a cornerstone of the seasonal workforce, other industries such as agriculture, construction, education, and events are equally significant contributors.
Key industries driving seasonal jobs in Greece
1. Agriculture: Greece’s fertile land supports a robust agricultural sector, with seasonal demands for harvesting olives, grapes, and citrus fruits.
2. Construction: Mild weather during spring and autumn makes these seasons ideal for building projects and renovations.
3. Education: Language schools see peaks in demand for tutors and teachers, particularly for English instruction.
Agriculture: A Key Sector for Seasonal Work in Greece
Agriculture stands out as a cornerstone of Greece’s seasonal economy, offering work opportunities that align with the country’s natural cycles. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking hands-on roles while immersing themselves in rural Greek life.
Opportunities in agricultural work
Agricultural roles in Greece vary across seasons:
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Olive Harvesting: Taking place from October to January, olive picking is iconic in regions like Crete, Kalamata, and the Peloponnese. Workers gather olives by hand or with mechanized tools, often participating in the pressing process to produce olive oil.
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Grape Harvesting: From August to October, vineyards in Santorini, Nemea, and Thessaloniki require workers for grape picking and winemaking.
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Citrus Picking: Winter months bring opportunities to harvest oranges and mandarins, particularly in Argolis and Chios.
Locations and benefits
Most agricultural jobs are based in rural regions, where farms often provide accommodations. Wages range from €30–€50 per day, with meals sometimes included. Beyond financial compensation, workers gain exposure to traditional farming practices and enjoy Greece’s stunning countryside.
Challenges and unique experiences
Agricultural work can be physically demanding, requiring long hours outdoors. However, it offers cultural immersion and a sense of accomplishment tied to the land. Eco-tourism and agro-tourism initiatives provide alternative roles for those interested in sustainable farming or guesthouse management, making this sector both dynamic and rewarding.
Construction: Seasonal Work for Skilled and Unskilled Laborers
Greece’s construction industry experiences seasonal peaks in spring and autumn, driven by favorable weather and the need for renovations and infrastructure projects. This sector offers roles for both skilled tradespeople and general laborers.
Seasonal construction opportunities
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Skilled Trades: Carpenters, electricians, and masons are highly sought after for home renovations and infrastructure projects.
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General Labor: Workers assist with transporting materials, site preparation, and clean-up, making it an accessible option for those without specialized skills.
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Heritage Restoration: Greece’s numerous historical buildings and archaeological sites often require seasonal workers with experience in traditional building methods.
Key Locations and pay
Construction activity is prominent in urban centers like Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as on islands like Mykonos and Santorini, where tourism drives the demand for villas and hotels. Wages for general laborers range from €40–€70 per day, with higher pay for skilled workers.
Challenges and benefits
While physically demanding, construction work provides opportunities to learn valuable skills and work on culturally significant projects. Workers also gain insight into Greek architectural styles, especially when involved in heritage restoration.
Education: Teaching and Tutoring in Greece
Running parallel to the academic calendar, the peak season is from September to June.
Roles in education
● Language Schools: These institutions hire teachers for English instruction, with positions available in cities and towns across Greece.
● Private Tutoring: One-on-one tutoring is popular, particularly in urban areas like Athens, where students seek personalized lessons.
● Volunteer Programs: Rural schools and non-profits offer roles for those interested in community-based teaching initiatives.
Pay and working conditions
Hourly tutoring rates range from €10–€30, depending on experience. Language schools typically offer monthly salaries between €800–€1,200. Schedules are flexible, with many lessons occurring in the afternoon or evening, allowing for time to explore the country.
Benefits and challenges
Teaching offers the chance to make a meaningful impact on students’ lives while gaining valuable professional experience. However, seasonal demand tied to the school calendar and occasional language barriers can present challenges. For those equipped with a TEFL or CELTA certification, teaching in Greece is a fulfilling way to engage with local communities and contribute to education.
Is Seasonal Work in Greece Worth It?
Even beyond the customary
hotel jobs, seasonal work in Greece can be a highly rewarding experience, offering more than just a paycheck. However, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons to decide if it aligns with your personal and professional goals.
Benefits of seasonal work in Greece
1. Cultural immersion
Seasonal work allows you to engage deeply with Greek culture. Whether it’s participating in traditional olive harvests or collaborating with locals on construction projects, these experiences provide a unique lens into the country’s way of life. Beyond the workplace, you’ll have the opportunity to explore rural areas, indulge in authentic Greek cuisine,
expand your social network, and perhaps even pick up some basic Greek phrases.
2. Competitive wages in certain sectors
While not every seasonal job is lucrative, specific industries like construction, eco-tourism, and specialized agricultural roles offer competitive wages. Additionally, jobs that include accommodations and meals as part of the compensation package can make earnings stretch further.
3. Networking and skill development
Seasonal work often involves collaboration with people from diverse backgrounds, providing a chance to build professional networks and friendships. Depending on the role, you might also acquire transferable skills, such as language proficiency, event planning expertise, or agricultural techniques.
4. Scenic working environments
Many seasonal jobs are located in picturesque areas, from lush olive groves in Crete to idyllic vineyards in Santorini. Working amidst such natural beauty can be a significant morale booster and provide memorable experiences.
Challenges of seasonal work in Greece
1. Job instability and short-term nature
Seasonal work is inherently temporary, with roles lasting only a few weeks or months. This instability can be a drawback if you’re seeking long-term employment or consistent income. It’s important to plan for gaps between seasons or consider taking on multiple short-term roles consecutively.
2. Language barriers
While many Greeks in urban areas speak English, rural communities may primarily communicate in Greek. Depending on your role,
learning Greek can be essential for seamless communication and integration.
3. Remote locations and limited amenities
Many agricultural and eco-tourism jobs are based in remote villages or countryside locations. While this offers tranquility, it can also mean limited access to modern amenities, healthcare, or reliable transportation.
4. Physical and mental demands
Certain jobs, such as olive harvesting or construction work, require significant physical effort and stamina. Long hours under the sun or repetitive tasks might not suit everyone. Additionally, being far from family and friends could pose emotional challenges for some workers – especially when facing
the challenges of adapting to a new culture.
How Can You Find Seasonal Work in Greece?
Finding seasonal work in Greece involves a mix of proactive online searching and tapping into local networks. Opportunities are plentiful, but knowing where to look can make the process smoother and more rewarding. Below are the best ways to get started on your search.
Online platforms
The internet is a powerful resource for finding seasonal jobs in Greece.
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Local job boards: Websites like Jobs in Greece and Jobfind regularly feature listings for seasonal work across industries such as agriculture, construction, and education. These platforms are widely used by Greek employers and often post roles suited to both locals and international workers.
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International work exchange programs: Platforms like Workaway and WWOOF are excellent for connecting with hosts offering short-term roles in exchange for meals, lodging, and sometimes a stipend. These programs are particularly popular in eco-tourism and agriculture, such as organic farming or agritourism projects.
Social media and networking
Social media is an invaluable tool for job seekers.
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Social media groups: Facebook groups dedicated to seasonal work in Greece are active, with members sharing job openings, tips, and experiences.
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Local markets and community centers: Building relationships in local communities can open doors to informal job offers. For example, farmers or event organizers often recruit workers through word-of-mouth recommendations rather than formal postings.
Recruitment agencies
Recruitment agencies operating in Greece specialize in connecting job seekers with employers, particularly for niche roles like heritage restoration, event planning, or skilled construction jobs. These agencies provide valuable guidance, handle paperwork, and often have insights into seasonal hiring trends.
By combining these methods, you can maximize your chances of finding seasonal work in Greece, tailored to your skills and interests.
Over to You!
While Greece is widely known for its tourism and hospitality roles, its seasonal job market spans a variety of other sectors. Opportunities in agriculture, construction, education, and cultural events provide diverse and practical options for short-term employment.
If you’re wondering how to land the perfect summer job in Greece, These roles offer a chance to engage directly with the local industries and communities, making them an appealing choice for those seeking meaningful work experiences.
By exploring these lesser-known opportunities, workers can discover a range of rewarding roles that align with their skills and interests while
working and
living in Greece, and contributing to the country’s seasonal economy.
Ready to take the leap and explore seasonal work opportunities?
Submit your CV and start looking for your ideal job in Greece today!