Applicants must present themselves promptly, warmly, and preferably upright. References from sober citizens encouraged but not always believed.
1. Royal Ice Sculptor’s Assistant
Assist the palace sculptor in chiseling temporary marvels from blocks of ice. Steady hands and warm mittens essential.
Apply: Palace Grounds Workshop, Frost Pavilion, before midday.
2. Street Lamp Wick Replacer
Replace frozen wicks in stubborn lamps across the capital. Fireproof scarf recommended.
Apply: Bureau of Illumination, Lamp Depot, 3rd door on right.
3. Snowball Quality Inspector
Test density and trajectory of public snowballs for safety and fairness.
Apply: Office of Civic Recreation, Winter Park, bring gloves.
4. Door Hinge Lubricator (Seasonal Contract)
Prevent civic doors from shrieking in protest of the cold. Must climb ladders and enjoy solitude.
Apply: Department of Maintenance, Alley of Echoes.
5. Goose Cook’s Assistant
Aid the royal cook in preparing the Midwinter banquet geese (see previous posting for backstory).
Apply: Palace Kitchen, west door, apron required.
6. Herald of the Long Night
Announce sunset, distribute lanterns, and offer cheer as daylight fades early.
Apply: Office of Seasonal Announcements, Room 4A, bring bell.
7. Sleigh Bell Polisher
Polish, tune, and restring sleigh bells for noble households. Should enjoy repetitive jingling.
Apply: Carriage Works, Frostmarket Road, Bench 2.
8. Soup Tester (Civic Kitchens)
Ensure consistency and temperature of free public soup. Taste buds mandatory.
Apply: Public Hall Canteen, Soup Counter, between bells one and two.
9. Winter Festival Torchbearer
Carry ceremonial torches during the Festival of Lights. Fear of flame or crowds undesirable.
Apply: Festival Committee Tent, East Market.
10. Chimney Smoke Evaluator
Observe household chimneys and determine quality of smoke—white, gray, or worrisome.
Apply: Bureau of Combustion Safety, Tower Office, bring goggles.
11. Frozen Well Breaker
Break ice on public wells each dawn to prevent despair and dehydration.
Apply: Waterworks Division, Bucket Hall, between bells five and six.
12. Post Office Hearth Minder
Maintain warmth in the Postmaster’s Hall so ink may continue to flow. Tendency to nap discouraged.
Apply: Postal Annex, back entrance near mule pen.
13. Candle Maker’s Delivery Boy (or Girl)
Deliver candles by sled throughout the city. Speed rewarded; breakage punished by lecture.
Apply: Guild of Waxwrights, Market Row, Booth #3.
14. Frozen River Watcher
Monitor the frozen river for cracks, skating accidents, or drifting barrels.
Apply: Harbor Office, South Pier, window marked “Winter Duty.”
15. Assistant Rat Exhorter (Seasonal)
Assist senior rat negotiator in persuading vermin to stay indoors for warmth but refrain from theft.
Apply: Bureau of Civic Harmony, Basement Chamber 2.