Part-Time Job Opportunities at the University of Aberdeen

The University of Aberdeen, located in the vibrant city of Aberdeen, Scotland, offers a wealth of part-time job opportunities for its students. Balancing studies with work is a common choice for many undergraduates and postgraduates, helping to cover living expenses, gain valuable experience, and build professional networks. With its rich history dating back to 1495, the university supports students through various on-campus and off-campus options, ensuring flexibility around academic schedules.

Working part-time can enhance your university experience by developing skills like time management, communication, and teamwork. According to the university's careers service, over 60% of students engage in some form of part-time work during their studies. International students on a Tier 4 visa are limited to 20 hours per week during term time, but full-time work is allowed during holidays. Always check with the International Student Adviser for the latest regulations.

Benefits of Part-Time Work

• Financial Support: Earn up to £10-£12 per hour, helping with tuition fees, accommodation, or daily costs in Aberdeen, where living expenses average £800-£1,000 monthly.
• Skill Development: Gain practical experience in fields like retail, hospitality, or admin, which boosts your CV for future graduate roles.
• Networking: Connect with local employers and university staff, potentially leading to internships or full-time positions post-graduation.
• Flexibility: Many roles offer evening, weekend, or holiday shifts to fit around lectures and exams.

On-Campus Part-Time Jobs

The university prioritizes its students for internal vacancies, providing a supportive environment close to campus. These roles are often advertised through the university's job portal or student union noticeboards. Common positions include:

Job Type	Description	Typical Pay	Hours per Week
Library Assistant	Shelving books, assisting patrons, and basic IT support in the Sir Duncan Rice Library.	£9.50 - £11.00	10-15
Student Ambassador	Guiding tours, attending open days, and promoting the university at events.	£10.00 - £12.00	5-20
Catering and Bar Staff	Working in university cafes, bars, or event catering through the Students' Union.	£9.00 - £10.50	10-18
Research Assistant	Supporting academic projects in labs or offices, ideal for STEM students.	£11.00 - £13.00	8-12

To apply for on-campus jobs, register with the university's Careers and Employability Service website. They host job fairs twice a year and offer CV workshops tailored for part-time roles.

Off-Campus Part-Time Jobs in Aberdeen

Aberdeen's economy, driven by energy, tourism, and retail, provides diverse opportunities. The city center is a short walk or bus ride from campus, making commuting easy. Popular sectors include:

• Hospitality and Retail: Positions in shops, restaurants, or hotels like Tesco, Primark, or local pubs. Expect shifts in evenings or weekends, with pay starting at the UK minimum wage of £9.18 for 18-20 year olds.
• Event and Tourism: Seasonal work at events like the Aberdeen International Youth Festival or in visitor centers, especially during summer.
• Delivery and Gig Economy: Flexible roles with companies like Deliveroo or Uber Eats, allowing you to work around your timetable via apps.
• Tutoring and Childcare: Private tutoring for school pupils or babysitting, often advertised on Gumtree or local Facebook groups. Rates can reach £15-£20 per hour.

For off-campus searches, use platforms such as Indeed, StudentJob UK, or the National Student Money Survey. The Aberdeen City Council's job board also lists local vacancies. Networking at university societies can uncover hidden opportunities in the oil and gas sector, a major employer in the region.

How to Find and Apply for Part-Time Jobs

1. Update Your CV: Highlight relevant skills, even from extracurriculars. Keep it to one page and include your student status.
2. Search Online: Set up alerts on job sites and check the university's MyAberdeen portal weekly.
3. Attend Events: Join careers fairs or employer talks organized by the university in September and February.
4. Prepare for Interviews: Practice common questions like "How do you manage time between work and studies?" Dress smartly and arrive early.
5. Seek Advice: Visit the Careers Service drop-in sessions for personalized guidance, available Monday to Friday.

Tips for Balancing Work and Studies

Maintaining a healthy balance is crucial to avoid burnout. Limit work to 15-20 hours weekly, use a planner app like Google Calendar, and prioritize assignments. The university offers counseling if workload becomes overwhelming. Many students find that part-time roles in their field of study, such as admin for business students, make the experience more rewarding.

In summary, part-time jobs at the University of Aberdeen are accessible and beneficial, with ample support from the institution. Whether on campus in a library role or off campus in retail, these opportunities can enrich your time in Scotland. Start exploring today to make the most of your student life.