The photograph is illustrative.

The prestigious Italian ski resort Madonna di Campiglio is facing a serious problem that is no longer related only to the lack of snow or medical staff, but strikes at the very core of their tourism offering, hospitality.

According to the Italian daily newspaper Corriere del Trentino, Andrea Alfieri, the renowned head chef of the four-star superior Hotel Majestic, issued a public appeal because despite very competitive conditions he is unable to fill key positions in his kitchen.

When money is no longer enough motivation

Although there is often public debate about low wages in the tourism sector, Alfieri points out that in his case finances are not the obstacle. According to him, a beginner in the kitchen, the so-called commis chef, can expect a monthly salary of 1,600 to 1,700 euros. For more experienced cooks who lead certain departments, known as chefs de partie, earnings range between 1,900 and 2,200 euros net. In addition, the hotel provides accommodation in equipped apartments and food, which means that the stated amounts are practically pure earnings.

A change in mindset and the search for free time

The main cause of the chronic worker shortage, according to the well-known chef, is a drastic change in priorities among younger generations. Alfieri explains that working in top-tier hospitality requires sacrifice, working during holidays, and a high degree of discipline. He notes that today’s candidates often seek maximum benefit with minimal engagement, putting free time ahead of professional advancement and gaining experience. Even when they show up for a job interview, many candidates simply disappear without a response because they are simultaneously negotiating with numerous employers, bidding for an offer only a few dozen euros higher.

This case from Madonna di Campiglio clearly illustrates a deeper disruption in the European labor market. While employers try to balance business sustainability and attractive wages, the workforce is becoming increasingly selective, and traditional trades are losing the battle to jobs that offer more flexibility. The question that remains open is whether luxury tourism can survive without people willing to give top-level commitment, regardless of the salary offered.

Hotel staff wanted (m/f) in Austria and Germany

Despite the difficulties faced by some Italian employers, the labor market in neighboring countries still offers exceptionally attractive opportunities.

For anyone considering a concrete step toward working abroad, numerous opportunities are available in prestigious 4- and 5-star hotels and top restaurants throughout Austria, in the regions of Tyrol, Salzburg, Carinthia, and Vorarlberg, as well as in the German states of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg.

Applications are open for waiters, cooks of all ranks (from assistants to head chefs and pastry chefs), receptionists, housekeepers, spa therapists, caretakers, and gardeners.

With competitive net earnings ranging in Austria from 1,600 to 4,500 euros, workers are provided with free accommodation (mostly in single rooms) and free meals.

A special advantage of working in Austria is the 13th and 14th salary, as well as additional benefits such as access to wellness areas, pools, ski passes, and language courses.

More information about the conditions and application process for these seasonal or year-round jobs can be found here.