Professional recruitment, but very limited earning potential
I applied for a winter transfer driver position and went through the recruitment process, including an interview. I would like to share the financial side of the offer for other drivers considering relocating for the season.
The company expects professional driving experience, customer-service skills and the ability to safely transport passengers in winter conditions in the French Alps and to/from Geneva Airport. The recruitment process is quite detailed and drivers are asked many questions about their experience and suitability.
However, the financial side was disappointing to me.
The contract is based on 35 hours per week. I specifically asked whether it would realistically be possible to work around 45–60 hours per week, because for me relocating abroad for a winter season only makes financial sense if there is a realistic opportunity to earn more.
I was told clearly that 45–60 hours cannot be guaranteed and that drivers rarely work consistently at that level. Additional hours may be available, but they are distributed between drivers.
I was also told that driving time and airport waiting time are paid, which is positive. But the basic problem remains: with a 35-hour contract and the level of pay offered, there is very limited earning potential for an experienced professional driver relocating to one of the most expensive tourist regions in Europe.
Drivers also have their own living expenses. Accommodation is not simply provided free of charge, and then there are food, transport and everyday costs in the Alps. After taxes and these expenses, the amount actually left for the driver can be surprisingly small.
This is what I find difficult to understand. Customers are paying significant amounts for airport transfers between Geneva and Alpine resorts. At the same time, the person who is actually responsible for driving those customers safely through winter mountain conditions has very limited possibilities to increase his income.
For me, safety is not only about asking a driver many questions during an interview. Safety also means creating working conditions where an experienced driver feels financially secure, properly rested and motivated to stay with the company.
I am not saying that the company is badly organised. Communication during recruitment was professional and they were transparent when I asked direct questions. But financially, I personally cannot see the logic in relocating abroad for several months, taking responsibility for passengers in winter mountain conditions, and ending up with an income that may not be substantially better than what I could earn at home.
My advice to other drivers is simple: before relocating, ask for the exact hourly rate, calculate the guaranteed 35 hours, subtract taxes, accommodation, food and other living costs, and only then decide whether the season makes financial sense for you.
And this is what safety looks like in practice.
