Attention part-time job seekers!
Rejoice as here is a way for you to benefit from the temporary train closure season.
During the first of two full shutdowns of MRT services at 17 East-West and North-South Line stations yesterday (10 Dec), commuters were greeted with an army of over 400 personnel who were tasked to assist and guide travellers to transport alternatives.
That’s 100 more people than the army King Leonidas led to defend all of Greece.
These green-vested individuals were made up of a handful of SMRT staff and part-timers — mostly students.
Unsurprising really, considering the fact that it is the school holiday period.
Which student would pass on an opportunity to earn a little more pocket money?
It is also a great way to work on your inter-personal skills having to work in a chaotic environment with demanding and impatient commuters.
According to a job listing on Carousell, part-timers have to work between 4-10 hour shifts, “answer general enquiries from passengers”, “manage bus queues” and “assist passengers with special needs”.
Among other things, they also aid in ensuring the safety of commuters and also have the daunting task of crowd management.
All in all, these part-timers make up the most of the force which ultimately had a part to play in ensuring the smoothness of travel during an MRT shutdown.
While it may seem like a big task to undertake, you would still earn as much in 4 hours as you would have working for 8 with McDonald’s meagre salary.
Plus, there is no educational prerequisites or minimum contract period.
No commitment, flexible working hours, relatively high pay-per hour and free taxi rides: that’s basically every student’s part-time dream job.
Of course, every job comes with challenges.
In a TODAY report, many young ushers – no, not the singer – were dumbfounded by queries from commuters that were beyond what they were briefed about, such as directions to specific locations. For example, one commuter wanted to know how to get to Bukit Batok Street 51.
When unable to provide a clear answer, they were met with rude remarks by frustrated people. One usher was reportedly called “useless” when he was unable to provide directions to a location.
That’s a bit harsh.
In the end, standing for long hours having to deal with irrational people is tiring, which job isn’t?
Unfortunately, there will still be delayed openings and closures along the affected stations between 8 and 31 Dec.
Commuters should be aware of the timings so as to plan their day easier and not be caught in the chaos.
Nevertheless, those still looking forward to getting the $10/hr gig, there are still many days you can apply for.
Do note that slots for this lobang are limited so quickly grab em’ if you can.
Feature image from SMRT’s Facebook & Carousell
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