Doorpsersons and luggage porters work in hotels, luxury apartments and residences, and transport terminals. They are often required to undertake heavy lifting, and may be required to perform repetitive tasks, such as manning doorways and opening doors. They often work in shifts, which can include late nights, weekends and public holidays, but may also work regular hours depending on their position or the organisation they work for. They are usually required to wear a uniform.

Doorpersons and luggage porters often use trolleys to carry luggage, as well as log books to record and organise deliveries. They may also use 2-way radios to communicate with other hotel staff. They may also be required to use computers.