Twenty-thousand temporary Christmas jobs still need to be filled, but many are paying significantly less than last year.
According to a study by job site Adzuna, the number of temporary Christmas jobs is 24 per cent higher this year, as high street shops and online retailers prepare for the busiest season in the calendar.
Despite there being a sharp boost in jobs available, the average pay rate for these positions has dropped by more the £2 per hour to £9.32 from last year.
Retail offers the largest portion of these jobs at 4000, whereas 2000 are offered by behind the scenes roles in warehouses.
It also offers the worst paid roles with gift wrappers and Christmas elves earning the minimum wage and Christmas jumper designers earning just £12 per hour.
READ MORE: Retail expected to enjoy bumper Christmas season
Delivery on Christmas day can earn up to £500 a day according to the study.
“With a wealth of negative news hitting the job market in 2016, this boost in festive vacancies is sure to put a smile on the faces of British jobseekers,” Adzuna’s Doug Monro said.
“It’s not all good news, however, as average pay for festive workers looks set to drop significantly compared to last year, suggesting some top retail employers may be hiring more staff for entry level positions and cutting back on higher paid management roles.”
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