6 Best First Jobs If You Want To Work at Disney

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Want to work for the mouse, but your resume looks a little empty? If you begin your work history on the right foot, you can fill out your skill set with exactly what you need to impress a Disney hiring manager.

Below are six entry-level jobs that give you real, practical experience that will translate directly to a job at Disney. All the same customer-focused and teamwork skills will be needed if you’re going to work there — these jobs are the perfect stepping stones into your future Disney career.

Restaurant or Food Service

Entry-level food service jobs are widely available, and they build the hospitality skills Disney values. Any restaurant, café, coffee shop or quick-service food position is exactly the kind of fast-paced customer service experience Disney looks for. 

You take orders, prep meals and manage crowds during busy hours. This job teaches teamwork, time management and customer interaction — all skills that translate directly to Disney’s quick-service restaurants.

Retail

Retail jobs teach you how to handle transactions, manage inventory and provide top-notch customer service. Disney values cast members who can stay upbeat while assisting guests and still keep things organized when the pressure is on — exactly what retail workers learn on the job. 

Clothing stores, bookstores, gift shops — they’re all perfect ways to get this experience. And if you know how to use a point-of-sale system, that’s a plus, too. Disney recruiters love to see any background in customer service, so having some retail experience can make you stand out.

Live Performer or Crew 

Any performing experience, such as acting in a local musical, dancing at events or even working backstage, translates to entertainment roles at Disney. Being part of a local theater production or helping out at live events can get you comfortable with performing in public for large crowds. It doesn’t matter if you’re in the spotlight or behind the scenes.

Even helping out at a parade or a children’s party will give you practice making magic for an audience — just like a Disney character actor. Definitely mention any theater or performance experience you have on your resume.

Hotel or Resort Staff   

Disney’s resort jobs require attention to detail and the ability to create a welcoming environment for visitors. This includes working at the front desk, cleaning rooms and carrying luggage. If you already know how to provide hospitality to guests, you’re one step ahead.

Working at a hotel will teach you to anticipate guest needs and give them high-quality service. Exceptional guest service is a must at any Disney resort hotel, so be sure to highlight any hospitality background on your resume.

Lifeguard

Once you get the right certification, you can be a lifeguard while you’re still in high school. This is a great way to get relevant work experience early. Being a lifeguard shows you’re responsible and can make decisions quickly — you’re constantly scanning for safety issues on the lookout for danger — all while communicating effectively with both children and parents. This is exactly what Disney is looking for. Plus, Disney parks have water attractions and pools where having lifeguard experience is a big plus.

Camp Counselor 

Working as a summer camp counselor or at an after-school program puts you in charge of kids’ fun and safety. You’ll plan activities, lead games and manage a group of children, just like entertaining kids in a Disney park.

Counselors often have strong communication skills, patience and creativity — all must-have skills for interacting with families at Disney. Having camp experience signals to Disney that you’re accustomed to working with children in a fun, organized way.

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