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Working FAQs

When and where will I start working?

Participants will spend their first official day of work in Traditions class. This is a training session for all new Cast Members and will be scheduled one or two days after they arrive. Participants will find out their exact work location as part of the check-in process and will begin training for their work location shortly after they have completed Traditions.

If I do not like my reserved role, can I change once I arrive?

Once you accept the role you have been offered, you make a commitment to that position for the duration of your program. If you have questions about the role you have been offered, contact your recruiter prior to accepting that position online.

Which days of the week will participants be off from work?

Disney CareerStart Program participants typically have days off on weekdays. However, this may vary with each work location.

What are the "Disney Look" guidelines?

All guidelines for costumed and non-costumed Cast Members can be found in the "The Disney Look" section of the site.

Do I start working the day I arrive?

No, you will spend your first two days checking in, completing employment paperwork, attending a welcome session, and getting settled in your new home. Traditions, which is each participant’s “official” day of work, is typically schedule on the third day of the participant’s program. These extra days give you some time to get settled in and visit the local grocery store.

What is the "Traditions" class?

In short, "Traditions" is your orientation to The Walt Disney Company and the Walt Disney World® Resort. All Cast Members attend this training class.

When will I receive my Walt Disney World Cast Member identification card?

Your official first day of work will be the day you attend Traditions, which will be one or two days after you arrive. You will receive your Cast Member ID at your Traditions class.

Why can't I know exactly where I'll be working now?

You have received your role in your invitation letter; however, your specific work location is not determined until immediately prior to your arrival, and is based on availability of work locations.

When will I know the location in which I will be working?

You will be given this information during the second day of your check-in process.

What kind/color shoes will I need to purchase for my role?

Because you won't know your exact work location until you arrive, we recommend that you purchase your shoes after your arrival. Your Coordinators of Training will provide you with the exact shoe specifications for your work location when you begin your work-location training. Don’t worry; there are several outlets, discount stores and malls near the Walt Disney World Resort.

When do I get my first paycheck?

Paychecks are issued every Thursday for the previous Sunday-Saturday work week. Therefore, it is highly likely that you won't get your first check until one-and-a-half weeks after you arrive. Also, keep in mind that your first paycheck will include only your first couple of days of work (one to three days), and your second paycheck may have your first and second week's housing payments deducted from it. Bring extra cash to carry you over until your third pay period. Your first paid day of work is your Traditions class.

Will I have the same days off each week?

Your time off may vary depending on your work location and Guest attendance. You may or may not have the same days off each week.

Can I get additional time off from work?

In certain cases, we are able to approve some time off requests prior to arrival. Please contact your recruiter, and advise them of your request. After you arrive, time off requests need to be submitted to your work location leaders accordingly.

What type of shifts should I expect to be scheduled?

Disney CareerStartProgram participants should expect to work an average of five days a week and typically have two days off per week. Days, hours and time off vary by work location.

What is meant by "Full Availability"?

Every Disney CareerStart participant must have full work availability, which consists of being able to work any day of the week including weekends, holidays and overtime. The range of hours participants can be scheduled varies between peak and non-peak periods, meaning participants could work shifts that are early mornings or even after midnight. Peak season is typically during a holiday week or weekend end or during program arrivals in January, May and August. There are no Disney Education courses being held during peak season, so students may be scheduled to work more than 50 hours per week, if necessary. If students are participating in one of the Disney Education courses, or have registered a distance learning course with our Education office, will be scheduled to work 30 to 45 hours per week during non-peak periods. If not, participants will be scheduled 30 to 50 hours per week during non-peak periods.

Can I network with Walt Disney World professionals during my program?

Yes. Networking opportunities are available in all areas; but it's up to you to take advantage of the many networking opportunities available. The earlier you start seeking networking opportunities, the more opportunities you'll find. A great place to start is the Disney Learning Centers located throughout property. The centers host "Conversations With...," "Career Insights" and "Spotlight On..." sessions with a variety of Disney leaders each month.