Plenty of people have already searched for a side job. Whether you're a student, a retiree or still in school, it's nice to earn a little extra.
But what does a part-time gas station attendant actually do? Is it really just sitting around and waiting for someone to show up, or is there more to it?

These are the main duties

As a gas station helper, you mostly carry out simple or supporting tasks in sales.
This means that a part-time gas station attendant supports the station in service, sales and upkeep.
You operate the register in the store and serve customers accordingly.
After checking with your coworkers, you handle incoming deliveries as a part-time gas station attendant and stock the items in the coolers or on the shelves.
Preparing coffee and hot food is also part of your duties.
On top of that, you make sure the gas station and its car wash stay clean.
The pumps have to be cleaned too, because after all, no driver wants to fill up at dirty pumps.

What are the working conditions like?

Most of the time you work inside the station and look after customers as a part-timer. You're usually on your own, so certain cleaning jobs have to be done alone as well.
For maintenance and cleaning work you have to wear gloves to avoid germs.
At the register you naturally stand a lot, which puts particular strain on your shoulders, spine and arms.
In addition, all tasks have to be done quickly and reliably, because customers want the best service possible.
Dealing with customers calls for a certain confidence and a friendly manner.
Many gas stations are even open around the clock, so shift work is far from rare.
That means it's best not to make other plans, since shifts can vary a lot. You'll very often be scheduled on weekends in particular.
Listed out once more, this means the following:

  • Working on your feet
  • lots of manual work
  • working in heat/cold or in the store
  • customer contact
  • wearing protective gloves if needed
  • irregular working hours

What do you earn as a part-time gas station attendant?
That can vary widely, but there are usually no exact figures, since it isn't set by collective agreement.
Many gas station operators are independent businesses, so they generally tend to pay rather little.
Still, you can count on the generally applicable minimum wage rules. On top of that come premiums for night, Sunday and holiday work, since even a part-time gas station attendant has to work in shifts.
Gas stations usually schedule someone for a few hours, but are also happy to schedule full shifts, especially in the evening or at night.