Driver job offering 30,000 baht salary in Thailand draws flak for one day off per month
A job advertisement in Thailand offering 30,000 baht (around S$1,200) a month for an executive driver has sparked backlash over its extensive list of requirements.
Among them were being on standby until as late as 3am or 4am, washing up to six cars, and receiving just one day off per month.
Driver expected to be on standby daily
The advertisement was reportedly posted in a Facebook group seeking a driver for an executive and their family.
However, the driver was required to meet several conditions.
According to the listing, the applicant had to live in employer-provided housing or close by to be available for duty immediately upon request.
Work began at 7am, starting with driving the employer’s children to school.
During the day, the driver would pick up the middle child at noon, followed by the eldest child at 3pm.
Source: MULTIMEDIOSDS from Pixabay via Canva for illustration purposes only
In the evening, they had to take the children to dinner, which could last from 7pm to 11pm.
On some days, if the employer had social engagements, the driver was expected to wait up for their return, sometimes as late as 3am or 4am.
The post also said that weekend hours would vary from week to week.
Not allowed to leave area while waiting for boss
While waiting, the driver was not allowed to leave the area and was reportedly prohibited from sleeping in the car with the engine running and the air conditioning on.
Source: pixelshot on Canva for illustration purposes only
Problem-solving skills were also listed as a must for the position.
The driver also had to take care of any personal matters before picking up the employer.
Must wash 5 to 6 cars & live near employer
Besides driving, the applicant would also be responsible for cleaning and washing five to six vehicles and ensuring they were ready for use at all times.
The applicant had to be a non-smoker, maintain a neat haircut, and wear an outfit prepared by the employer.
They were also expected to handle children well when they cried or threw a tantrum.
Source: annastills on Canva for illustration purposes only
What shocked many netizens was that the employee would receive only one day off each month, except when the employer took a trip abroad.
The listing also warned prospective applicants not to apply unless they were able to meet every requirement.
Netizens question whether salary is worth it
After the advertisement circulated online, many people argued that 30,000 baht (around S$1,200) was insufficient for the level of availability and responsibilities expected.
They also noted that certain late nights by the employers could leave the driver with only a few hours’ sleep.
Some rejected the conditions even at double the pay, while others likened the job to “slavery.”
Under Section 28 of Thailand’s Labour Protection Act, employers generally have to provide employees with at least one weekly rest day, with no more than six days between weekly holidays.
Certain jobs, including transport work, may defer weekly holidays by agreement, but they must be taken within four consecutive weeks.
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Featured image adapted from MULTIMEDIOSDS from Pixabay on Canva for illustration purposes only.
