by Jimmy Flatbush

Created on: April 16, 2010   Last Updated: April 19, 2010

“Beggars cannot be choosy!”

This axiom has never been more appropriate than during The Great Recession, a period of almost three years that has seen the United States shed over six million jobs. The unemployment rate is in double digits, and who can assess the number of people who are underemployed or not actively seeking work. In this job market, beggars cannot be choosy.

What about temporary summer jobs, which companies fill in order to meet consumer and business demand. From Department of Labor reports, the number of summer employment openings contracted as well over the past three years, making it increasingly difficult for teachers, students, and those seeking supplemental income to find summer work. Even with temporary summer positions, it appears beggars cannot be choosy.

Yet, we should know there are a few summer jobs that are not worth taking even in this tight labor market. These jobs put people at risk of injury or the work is done in horrendous conditions. These jobs are filled by migrant workers, because Americans refuse to take the open positions under any economic circumstances. In essence, these are the worst summer jobs.

Road Construction

Federal and state governments spend a large portion of their respective transportation budgets during the hot, dry summer months. All you need to know about a road construction job is the sign that reads, “$1000 fine for hitting a road worker.” Is your life worth only $1000? Road construction worker accidents have dramatically risen over the past years, mostly due to driver negligence (cell phones, text messaging). Factor in a Hades like work environment, and there is not enough money in government vaults to compensate for their dangers inherent with this job. Remember that temporary workers draw the worst work assignments.

Dishwasher

Restaurants generally see an increase in business during summer, as outdoor dining attracts more guests. Vacationers also contribute to the busiest season, so restaurateurs meet the demand by hiring temporary employees. Most of the temporary summer restaurant jobs are service oriented, but support jobs such as dishwasher also require more bodies in order to keep pace with the increase in business volume. Dishwashers work nonstop in filthy conditions, rarely taking a break to rest or eat. Moreover, restaurant kitchens become saunas during the summer months, with trapped grill and fryer heat contributing to most of the misery.

Grass Cutter

Call this job

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>