The Oscar Mayer Wienermobile is hiring drivers who know how to handle a hot dog

Hot dogs, hot wheels, and the trip of a lifetime: Get your buns in gear and consider applying to be an Oscar Mayer Hotdogger.

Yes, that’s right, Oscar Mayer is hiring traveling brand ambassadors to trek across the United States promoting the Oscar Mayer brand. Applications are being accepted through Jan. 31, 2025. 

Picture this: two Hotdogger cruising the open road in a giant sausage on wheels, spreading joy wherever you go. It’s a job that combines the thrill of the open road with the joy of making people’s day just a little bit weirder and a whole lot tastier.

Being a Hotdogger means becoming the face of one of America’s most iconic brands. It’s the ultimate dream for anyone looking to combine adventure, fun, and a touch of quirkiness in their career. It’s not just about driving the iconic Wienermobile; it’s about bringing smiles, creating unforgettable experiences and embracing a job as unique as the person in it.

CJ Zabat of Bartlett, also known by his Hotdogger nickname, Chili Dog, reflected on his time with the Wienermobile, calling it "the best years of my life."

"I got to learn so much about myself and about this entire country by being able to travel over half of it,” Zabat explains."

"Chili Dog offers a different perspective for those who might hesitate at the idea of doing something this unconventional."

"Some people think, 'I want a desk job, or I don't want to do something for just a year,'” he said. “But I’d say those opportunities will always be waiting for you when you're done with the Wienermobile."

Being a Hotdogger is more than just driving a giant hot dog across the country and handing out wieners and trinkets. Hotdoggers are creative, quirky brand ambassadors who attend events, participate in parades, create social media content and take part in newspaper interviews and TV appearances, all while promoting the Oscar Mayer brand during their one-year experience.

Former Hotdogger and current senior brand manager Molle Twing defines the job as being “a masterclass for young professionals interested in social media or brand marketing.”

The Hotdogger program debuted in 1936 with 'Little Oscar,' a character who piloted the Wienermobile while visiting schools, orphanages and children’s hospitals and participated in parades and festivals. Since then, the fleet has grown to six vehicles piloted by a crew of 12 Hotdoggers (two per vehicle). Each vehicle is estimated to attend at least 200 events throughout the year.

When the Hotdogger program started in 1988, it was designed to develop and hire top talent who would grow into future leaders of Oscar Mayer. Today’s Hotdoggers are offered several opportunities for coaching and mentorships through in-field meetings from top-level executives, advertising, public relations and social media digital teams. Each candidate is required to attend a training program.

“We go to a two-week training program called Hot Dog High, and during that time, we learn how to drive the Wienermobile, of course. We would do a lot of team building exercises since when you're on the road, it's just you and your co-pilot and the entire nation at your foot,” says Zabat of his training experience.

So, how do you become a Hotdogger?

Candidates must have, but are not limited to, a bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, communications, advertising, or marketing. Applicants should have excellent communication skills and a friendly, outgoing personality. The assignment begins and ends in the second week of June. It also offers a competitive salary with a weekly allowance for meals, personal travel, full health benefits and 401K options.  

For those who love to connect with people spreading joy, serving up smiles and mixing it up with a bit of the unexpected, visit Oscar Mayer’s website for application details.