For the summer, VNF relies on seasonal lock keepers in the South-West
In the summer, some river destinations are very popular. This is particularly the case in the South of France and, more specifically, the Canal du Midi. Boats and barges without a licence are therefore numerous to navigate there, whether for a short stay or for several weeks. And to facilitate traffic and offer good navigation conditions to travellers, every year the VNF - Voie Navigable de France - recruits lock keepers during the summer season. These seasonal jobs are accessible to a wide public and allow the discovery of a new environment and, above all, a little-known profession. All the more so as from one place to another, the tasks vary but one thing is sure, you won't get bored!
Job vacancies on the Canal du Midi and the Canal Latéral de la Garonne
In mid-March, navigation will resume on most of the French canals. And from the first days of summer, it will intensify. Within a few months, barges and boats without a licence will pass one after the other through the locks of the Canal du Midi and the Canal Lateral de la Garonne. And if they operate almost on their own, the presence of a lock keeper is necessary to welcome and inform travellers, and to ensure the maintenance of these infrastructures and their surroundings. The latter must also enforce the regulations in force and regulate traffic and moorings.
An unusual and very rewarding summer job
The job offers offered by VNF were available until January 27. While the assignments may have been different in different areas, the skills required to apply were the same. In fact, all that was required was to be able to swim and hold a B licence. Being fluent in English is a plus as river cruises are very popular with foreign tourists. According to the VNF, 70% of the Canal du Midi's customers are foreigners. In addition to these seasonal jobs, it is important to know that the establishment has offers throughout the year. So if you're interested, don't hesitate to ask!
And if you would like to discover the locks located between Toulouse and Castelnaudary, book a river cruise on our website!