Why it’s awesome: You’re the reason guests walk in and say “WOW!” Clean rooms = happy guests.

Common job tasks

• Make beds, change sheets, restock towels/toiletries  
• Vacuum, dust, mop, and sanitize bathrooms/kitchen fixtures  
• Clean public areas (hallways, elevators, change rooms)  
• Report maintenance issues and handle lost & found   

Qualifications (typical)

• No specific education is required for this occupation group  
• Some employers may prefer or require room attendant/housekeeping certification

Average pay (Alberta)

• $15.00 – $18.20 – $23.08+ / hour (low–median–high)

Housekeeping Career Pathways

Why it’s awesome: You’re the face of the hotel—big “main character energy.” You help guests, solve problems, and keep things running smoothly.

Common job tasks

• Make/track reservations and room assignments
• Check guests in/out and answer questions (in person/phone/email)
• Handle guest concerns and share local info (directions, attractions)
• Prepare bills, verify records, take payments

Qualifications (typical)

Secondary school (high school) usually required

Some roles may prefer apprenticeship or college training in front desk operations/hotel management

Average pay (Alberta)

• $16.00 – $17.00 – $20.00 / hour (low–median–high)

Front Office Career pathways

Why it’s awesome: Weddings! Conferences! Big celebrations! You’re part of the team that makes memorable moments happen.

Common job tasks

• Greet guests, present menus, take orders, serve food and beverages
• Coordinate with kitchen/bar staff to deliver a smooth event
• Present bills and accept payments (in some roles)

Qualifications (typical)

On-the-job training is usually provided; secondary school may be required

If serving alcohol, responsible beverage service certification is usually required

Average pay (Alberta)

• $15.00 – $18.00 – $30.00 / hour (low–median–high)

Banquets Career pathways

Why it’s awesome: Fast-paced, creative, and you learn skills you can use anywhere—plus… food.

Common job tasks

• Prepare and cook a wide variety of foods
• Work in hotels/restaurants and maintain food quality and timing

Qualifications (typical)

• Often requires college diploma, apprenticeship (under 2 years), or 6+ months on-the-job training

Average pay (Alberta)

• $15.00 – $17.50 – $23.50 / hour (low–median–high)

Culinary Career pathways

Why it’s awesome: If you like numbers, organization, and behind-the-scenes problem solving, this is a great path—and it connects to leadership roles.

Common job tasks

• Prepare/process invoices, bills, and statements
• Enter, verify, and reconcile transactions (A/P, A/R, payroll, etc.)
• Compile budget info and reports; respond to customer/vendor questions

Qualifications (typical)

• Post Secondary Education is usually required
• Some roles may require college or recognized accounting/bookkeeping courses

Average pay (Alberta)

• $18.50 – $25.96 – $38.00 / hour (low–median–high)

Accounting Career Pathways

Why it’s awesome: You get to promote cool experiences, build a brand, run social media, and help fill rooms/events.

Common job tasks

• Develop and run marketing/promotional strategies and campaigns
• Create digital marketing content and manage social media accounts/reviews
• Measure results and report on marketing performance
• Support the sales team with selling corporate and event bookings, including writing sales contracts.

Qualifications (typical)

Usually requires a university degree, or (for some roles) a college diploma in marketing/communications/PR

Average pay (Alberta)

$20.00 – $32.00 – $50.33 / hour (low–median–high)

Marketing Career pathways

Jose Zaleta,  Sr. Operations Manager Food and Beverage, JW Marriott Edmonton ICE District

Discover Jose’s journey in hospitality, from his start as a cook to his current role as Senior Operations Manager of Food & Beverage at JW Marriott Edmonton ICE District. Watch Jose as he reflects on his climb from Jr. Sous Chef to leading major events and operations, and learn how passion and commitment have fueled his rise through the ranks, shaping a dynamic career in the hospitality industry.

Tanvir Sekhon, Front Desk Supervisor, Element by Westin Calgary Airport & Four Points by Sheraton Calgary Airport

Join Tanvir as she shares her journey from a hospitality student to a leadership role within two prominent hotels. Learn how her education at SAIT, recognition through the White Hat award, and a nomination from Tourism Calgary have propelled her career forward, transitioning from Front Desk Associate to Supervisor, and illustrating the impact of dedication in the hospitality industry.

Tina Tobin, General Manager, Edmonton Inn & Conference Centre

With 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Tina began her career as a front desk clerk and quickly advanced to a front desk manager. In this video, Tina shares her insights on the dynamic nature of hospitality, the joy of interacting with diverse guests, and the importance of continuous learning. Discover how Tina’s passion for hospitality and her hands-on approach have shaped her rewarding career.

Cassandra Billy, Complex Director of Housekeeping, The Dorian, Autograph Collection & Courtyard by Marriott Calgary Downtown

In this video, Cassandra shares her inspiring journey from a background in food and beverage to taking on a new challenge in housekeeping. Discover how her love for meeting new people, understanding different cultures, and embracing new opportunities has fueled her growth and passion in the hospitality industry. Watch as she reflects on her transition, the excitement of her current role, and her advice for those looking to thrive in hospitality.