Where He Started Looking

His first seasonal job was at a big box store. Places like Target and Walmart usually increase staff in November and December. They hire for stocking, cashier work, curbside pickup, and general customer support. The hours are predictable, and shifts are usually posted right on their careers page. According to a recent report from CNBC, retailers typically hire hundreds of thousands of seasonal employees each year. It is one of the easiest ways to get part time work without needing special experience.

My brother liked retail because managers were flexible with scheduling. He could work after his full time job or pick up morning shifts on weekends. Most of these stores also offer employee discounts, which is a nice perk during gift season.

Delivery Companies Need Even More Help

Last year he switched things up and tried delivery work. Companies like UPS, FedEx, and Amazon all add seasonal drivers and helpers as package volume increases. These roles usually pay a bit more because the work is physical. UPS has even stated publicly in past years that seasonal drivers often earn higher hourly wages due to demand.

My brother signed up as a driver helper. They matched him with a regular delivery driver, and he spent a few weeks riding along and helping with packages. He said it was straightforward work, the pay was solid, and the days went by fast because he was constantly moving.

Grocery and Warehouse Jobs Pick Up Too

Another option he looked into was grocery stores and warehouse fulfillment centers. Stores like Costco and local supermarkets hire additional workers for stocking and holiday food orders. Amazon warehouses also hire seasonal associates for sorting, picking, and packing items.

These roles often offer evening and overnight shifts, which works well for people trying to earn extra money without interrupting their daytime jobs. If you have a flexible schedule, this is one of the easiest ways to stack hours quickly.

What He Learned After a Few Seasons

The biggest lesson he learned is that seasonal work is not something you wait on. The earlier you apply, the better the chances of getting the hours you want. Many companies start hiring in October, even if the busiest period does not hit until late November.

He also learned to look at the bigger picture. Some seasonal roles turn into part time positions after the holidays. Others offer bonuses for completing the full season. One year he earned a small completion bonus from UPS, which helped cover travel expenses for December.

Tips if You Want to Pick Up Shifts This Season

Here are a few things he recommends after a few years of doing this:

Check postings weekly. Companies update openings often as holiday orders increase.
Keep your resume simple. Seasonal hiring managers look for availability and reliability more than anything else.
Be honest about your schedule. If you can only work weekends, say so. Many companies are fine with it.
Look for roles near home. Short commutes make seasonal work much easier to stick with.
Apply to more than one place. Seasonal hiring moves quickly, and having options helps you choose the best fit.

A Small Commitment That Helps a Lot

Seasonal work is not meant to be a long term solution. It is simply an opportunity to earn a little extra when you need it most. My brother keeps doing it because the payoff is real. He ends the year with less financial stress, and he goes into January without a credit card balance hanging over him.

If you want to add some extra room in your budget this holiday season, picking up a few shifts can make a noticeable difference. It is steady work, it fits around most schedules, and it helps you start the new year ahead rather than behind.

Sources

CNBC

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