Guest Driver

Role: Operations Assistant

Location: Hakuba

Employment Type: Seasonal Full Time

Contract term: December 2026 - March 2027

Work hours: Average of 40 hours per week

Candidates ages 23 and above by December, 2026 is preferred for insurance purposes

THE ROLE OVERVIEW

As an Guest Driver (formally called Operations Assistant), your primary responsibility is to safely and punctually transport guests to various locations throughout the Hakuba Valley. You will be the initial point of contact between guests and the Hakuba Hospitality Group, so it's essential to maintain a polite, punctual, and friendly guest-focused approach. Experience driving larger vehicles, such as 10-seat Hiace vans, in challenging conditions is preferred for this role.

GUEST DRIVER DUTIES

1. Transportation: Drive guests between their accommodations, ski resorts, restaurants, and transportation hubs. Ensure a safe and comfortable journey for the guests.
2. Staff Shuttles: Assist with transporting staff to and from their work locations in a timely manner.
3. Cleanliness: Maintain the cleanliness of the cars by regularly cleaning the interiors and exteriors. Ensure that the vehicles are free from snow, ice, and damage before each trip. Ensure the cars are properly fueled at all times.
4. Snow Clearing : Ensure that walkways and roads in front of hotels, chalets, and restaurant venues are clear of snow and ice.
5. Pre-arrival Checks: Conduct checks of chalets and villas before guest check-ins to ensure they are prepared and ready for arrival. Report any maintenance issues or deficiencies to the appropriate team members.
6. Support with Maintenance: Assist the property and maintenance team with general maintenance duties as required. This may involve minor repairs, upkeep, or other tasks to ensure the properties are well-maintained.
7. Teamwork: Collaborate with other staff members and be willing to help them with their tasks when needed. Foster a cooperative and supportive work environment.
8. Adaptability: Be open to taking on additional duties as assigned by the management. Show flexibility in adapting to specific role requirements and organizational needs.
9. Issue Resolution: Identify and address any issues with the vehicle promptly. Report any mechanical or maintenance problems to the appropriate personnel for resolution.

WHAT YOU NEED

• Legal right to live and work in Japan
• Japanese Driving License and/or International Driving Permit (with classes B and D stamped)
• Comfortability driving large and premium vans and cars
• Aged over 23 is preferred for insurance liability requirement
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Willingness to work flexible hours, evenings, mornings, weekends, and holidays, as per the requirements of the establishment
• Ability to handle a fast-paced and dynamic work environment and to stand for long period, lift heavy objects (such as luggage), and handle the physical demands of the job
• Strong work ethic and a team first mentality
• English fluency; Japanese a bonus
• Ability to commit until at least March 31, 2027

WHAT WE WOULD LIKE YOU TO BE LIKE

• You are reliable, respectful, and professional in attitude and appearance
• You enjoy working in a team and adapt easily to new environments
• You are solution-focused and calm under pressure
• You love nature, snow, and creating great guest experiences

WHAT WE CAN DO FOR YOU

• Competitive monthly rate
• Subsidized Accommodation
  
• Discounts at all HHG restaurants and bars
• Potential for longer-term or returning opportunities

DRIVER SHIFTS

Drivers are required to work approximately 40 hours per week. They provide driving services to guests and staff every day, from 6am to 12am, which necessitates organizing driver shifts within these hours. On certain days, there might be a need for some drivers to work until 2am.

ACCOMMODATION

HHG provides staff accommodations in central Hakuba (mainly in Happo Village, Wadano, and Kamishiro). Options include shared, dormitory, or private rooms depending on your role.