Two roles, one chalet
If you're thinking about doing a ski season, you've probably come across two roles more than any other: chalet chef and chalet host. They're the backbone of the chalet industry, and between them they handle everything from cooking gourmet dinners to making sure guests have the time of their lives.
But the day-to-day reality of each role is very different. Here's what you need to know.
Chalet Chef
What you'll do
As a chalet chef, your job is to cook. Breakfast, afternoon tea, and a multi-course dinner, typically 5 or 6 nights a week. The food is a huge part of the guest experience, and many chalets market themselves on the quality of their dining.
You'll plan menus, prep ingredients, cook everything from scratch, and plate up to restaurant standard. Some chalets have a separate kitchen team, but in most small-to-medium chalets, you're the sole chef.
The schedule
- Morning: Breakfast service (usually 7:30–9:30am), then clean up
- Midday: Prep for afternoon tea and dinner. This is often your busiest time
- Afternoon: Afternoon tea for returning guests (cake, snacks)
- Evening: Dinner service, usually 4 courses, served around 7:30–8pm
- Free time: Between breakfast cleanup and afternoon prep (roughly 10am–3pm on good days). This is your ski time
What you'll earn
Chalet chefs typically earn €1,800–€2,500/month depending on experience and the chalet company. Accommodation and food are usually included.
Who it's for
You need genuine cooking ability. This isn't just heating up ready meals. Most employers want at least a Level 2 Food Hygiene certificate, and many prefer candidates with professional kitchen experience or a culinary qualification. If you love cooking and want to combine it with skiing, this is your role.
Chalet Host
What you'll do
As a chalet host, you're the face of the chalet. You look after guests from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. That means everything from serving breakfast and afternoon tea, to cleaning bedrooms, making beds, doing laundry, and ensuring the chalet is spotless for changeover day.
You'll also help with guest requests: recommending restaurants, booking ski lessons, arranging transfers, and generally making sure everyone is having an amazing holiday.
The schedule
- Morning: Serve breakfast, clear up, clean the chalet (bedrooms, bathrooms, communal areas)
- Midday: Free time while guests are on the slopes. This is your ski time
- Afternoon: Back for afternoon tea service
- Evening: Help serve dinner (if the chalet has a chef) or handle evening service
What you'll earn
Chalet hosts typically earn €1,200–€1,600/month. Accommodation, food, and often a lift pass are included.
Who it's for
You need to be organised, personable, and not afraid of physical work. Cleaning chalets every morning is genuinely hard graft, especially at altitude. But if you're a people person who wants to ski every day and doesn't mind rolling up their sleeves, hosting is an incredible experience.
So which should you choose?
Choose chef if: You love cooking, have kitchen experience, and want higher pay. You're happy working long hours in the kitchen and don't mind less guest interaction.
Choose host if: You're a people person, you want more ski time, and you don't mind cleaning. You want a more social role with direct guest contact.
Both roles will give you an unforgettable season. The mountains don't care what your job title is. They're waiting for you either way.