How do you travel? Sungai Kolok is a bit more easily reachable by public transportation, but the distance to Kota Bharu and beyond is shorter via Tak Bai. The latter border is also much quieter and less of a hassle. At Pkg. Kubor you can take bus 27 (every 1.15 hours) to KB for a pretty quick trip to KB city bus station. From Rantau Panjang take bus 29.
You cannot work front office jobs, but farangs can and do work in the back office, where, if you're caucasian and white, you'll make good money managing the Thais, directing their every move and stuff. Thai people love white faces as their leaders.
Kota Bharu is pretty dull as a destination, but the Thai consulate is a good choice for getting a Thai visa. An overnight stay of no more than one night is compulsory.