3. Use the Extra Hours Hotline

Walt Disney World has a terrific feature for picking up shifts, known as the Extra Hours Hotline. Available on the employee computer portal, the Hotline lists all shifts that are currently open along with the training that is required to fill them. For example, retail shifts require you to have completed Merchandise training, while restaurant shifts require Food Service training. Many shifts, however, such as Parade Control, require no specialized training at all. Make sure you meet the requirements and are familiar with the hours and required job duties before accepting a shift.

Universal Orlando does not have an Extra Hours Hotline, but as a smaller company, it is no more difficult to get word about extra hours opportunities. Let your team leaders and supervisors know you are interested, and pay attention to notices that are posted in common areas such as Wardrobe and the employee cafeterias. The postings will specify training requirements and other important details, so read all the information carefully before responding.

4. Get cross-trained

Ultimately, the best way to ensure that you can get all the hours you want is to expand your range. Get cross-trained at another location or two within your department. For example, if you currently spiel on the Great Movie Ride, talk to your supervisors and the supervisors at Jungle Cruise about cross-training there. That way, you have two opportunities to be placed on a given week’s schedule. Just remember that your home location will remain the same unless you transfer, and that location has the first right to your time. That means you will generally work more hours at your home location, and you might not work at your cross-trained location at all during busy seasons.

Eventually, most people who work for the theme parks transfer around to other locations and even different departments. If you maintain your proficiencies in your old department, you might be able to pick up shifts there from time to time. Each location has its own requirements for maintaining proficiencies and picking up shifts, so have an in-depth discussion with your direct supervisor before your transfer occurs.