Part-Time Job Opportunities for Aston University Students

As a student at Aston University in Birmingham, balancing your studies with part-time work can provide valuable experience, financial independence, and skills for your future career. Aston offers a supportive environment with access to on-campus jobs and resources to help you find off-campus opportunities. Working part-time can enhance your CV, build networks, and help cover living costs in a vibrant city like Birmingham. International students should check visa restrictions, typically allowing up to 20 hours per week during term time.

On-Campus Job Opportunities

Aston University provides a range of flexible part-time roles tailored to student schedules. These jobs often align with academic calendars and offer perks like staff discounts or priority access to facilities. Here's a breakdown of common on-campus positions:

• Student Ambassador: Represent Aston at open days, school visits, and events. Duties include giving tours and engaging with prospective students. Pay: £9-£11 per hour. Requires good communication skills and enthusiasm for the university.
• Library Assistant: Help with shelving books, customer service at the Aston Webb Library, or IT support. Ideal for organized students. Pay: £10-£12 per hour. Shifts are usually evenings or weekends.
• Catering and Retail Staff: Work in the university's cafes, shops, or bars like the SU Shop. Roles involve serving food, stocking shelves, or bar work. Pay: £9.50-£11 per hour, with tips in some areas. Flexible hours around lectures.
• Research Assistant: Support academic staff on projects, especially in business or engineering departments. Great for those pursuing related degrees. Pay: £10-£13 per hour. Often project-based, lasting a semester.
• Administrative Support: Assist in departments like Student Services or Estates. Tasks include data entry, reception duties, or event setup. Pay: £9-£10 per hour. Entry-level and quick to start.

To apply for on-campus jobs, check the Aston University Jobs Portal on the student intranet or visit the Careers Service in the Main Building. Many roles require a quick online application and a short interview. Vacancies are posted year-round, with peaks in September and January.

Off-Campus Job Opportunities in Birmingham

Birmingham's bustling economy offers abundant part-time roles for Aston students, especially near the campus in the city center. Areas like retail, hospitality, and tutoring are popular. Public transport from Aston makes commuting easy.

Popular Sectors and Examples:

• Hospitality: Barista at Costa or Starbucks, waiter at local pubs like The Old Joint Stock, or kitchen staff in restaurants. Pay: £8-£10 per hour plus tips. Evening shifts suit student timetables.
• Retail: Sales assistant at Bullring Shopping Centre (e.g., Primark, H&M) or high street stores. Involves customer service and stock management. Pay: £9-£11 per hour. Weekends are busiest.
• Tutoring and Freelance: Tutor school students via platforms like Tutorful or help with university prep. Pay: £15-£25 per hour. Flexible, home-based work ideal for academic-focused students.
• Event and Seasonal Work: Ushers at NEC Arena events or Christmas temp roles in warehouses. Pay: £10-£12 per hour. Short-term gigs for extra cash during holidays.
• Delivery and Gig Economy: Drivers for Deliveroo or Uber Eats using a bike or car. Pay: £8-£15 per hour including tips. Fully flexible but requires self-motivation.

For off-campus searches, use apps like Indeed, StudentJob UK, or Reed. Local spots like Brindleyplace or Mailbox offer trendy roles. Always verify employer legitimacy and secure references.

How to Find and Secure Part-Time Jobs

Aston's Careers and Placements team provides dedicated support. Attend workshops on CV writing, interview skills, and job hunting. The Handshake platform lists student-specific vacancies. Network via Aston Student Union societies or LinkedIn groups for Aston alumni.

Steps to Get Started:

1. Update your CV: Highlight skills from your course, like teamwork from group projects.
2. Register with agencies: Sign up with Student Beans or local recruiters for alerts.
3. Prepare for interviews: Practice common questions and dress smartly.
4. Track applications: Use a spreadsheet to note deadlines and follow-ups.

Balancing Work, Study, and Well-Being

While part-time work is beneficial, prioritize your academics. Aim for 10-15 hours per week to avoid burnout. Use Aston's Wellbeing Services if stress arises. Track earnings for tax purposes—earnings under £12,570 are tax-free for most students.

Job Type	Average Hourly Pay	Pros	Cons
On-Campus (e.g., Ambassador)	£9-£11	Flexible, university perks	Limited spots
Hospitality	£8-£10 + tips	Social, quick cash	Busy evenings
Retail	£9-£11	Discounts, steady hours	Standing all day
Tutoring	£15-£25	High pay, skill-building	Irregular clients

Part-time jobs at Aston not only boost your finances but also enrich your university experience. Start exploring today to find a role that fits your lifestyle and goals.