Part-Time Job Opportunities at the University of Glasgow

The University of Glasgow, one of Scotland's oldest and most prestigious institutions, offers a wealth of part-time job opportunities for its students. Balancing studies with work is a common challenge, but the university supports this through various on-campus and local off-campus roles. These jobs not only provide financial support but also valuable experience in diverse fields. Whether you're looking for flexible hours around your lectures or roles that enhance your CV, Glasgow University has options tailored to student needs.

On-Campus Job Opportunities

The university employs hundreds of students each year in roles across its campuses in Gilmorehill and Garscube. These positions are ideal for those wanting to stay close to their studies and avoid commuting hassles. Common on-campus jobs include:

• Library Assistants: Helping with book shelving, customer service at the circulation desk, and supporting research queries. Shifts are often evenings or weekends, fitting around class schedules.
• Catering and Hospitality Staff: Working in university cafes, restaurants like the Glasgow University Union's eateries, or event catering. Roles involve serving food, bar work, or kitchen support, with opportunities during busy periods like freshers' week.
• Administrative and Reception Roles: Assisting in departments with data entry, filing, or front-desk duties. These are great for building office skills and networking with faculty.
• Research Assistants: Supporting professors on projects, often in labs or through the school's research centers. Ideal for STEM students, these can lead to academic credits or references.
• Campus Ambassadors and Event Staff: Promoting university events, guiding tours for prospective students, or helping at open days. These roles boost communication skills and public speaking experience.

Pay for on-campus jobs typically ranges from £9.50 to £12 per hour, depending on the role and experience. Many positions offer flexible hours, with contracts from 5 to 20 hours per week during term time.

Off-Campus Part-Time Jobs in Glasgow

Beyond the university, Glasgow's vibrant city center provides numerous part-time opportunities within easy reach via public transport. Students often find work in retail, hospitality, and tutoring, leveraging the city's student-friendly economy.

Job Type	Description	Average Hourly Pay	Typical Hours
Retail Assistant	Working in shops like Primark or H&M on Sauchiehall Street, handling sales and stock.	£10-£11	Evenings/weekends, 10-15 hours
Barista/Server	Serving in cafes or pubs in the West End, such as those near Byres Road.	£9.50-£12 (plus tips)	Flexible shifts, up to 20 hours
Tutor/Private Lessons	Offering subject-specific tutoring via platforms like Tutorful or university noticeboards.	£15-£25	1-2 hours per session, evenings
Delivery Driver	Bike or car deliveries for services like Deliveroo in the city center.	£10-£15 (including tips)	Peak times, 10-20 hours

These off-campus roles allow students to explore Glasgow's cultural scene while earning. The city's proximity to the university—most jobs are within a 20-30 minute bus or subway ride—makes them accessible.

How to Find and Apply for Part-Time Jobs

Discovering opportunities starts with university resources:

1. University Careers Service: Visit the MyGlasgowJobs portal on the university website for exclusive listings. Register for alerts on new vacancies.
2. Student Union Job Board: The Glasgow University Students' Representative Council (SRC) and Queen Margaret Union (QMU) post gigs on their online boards and in physical spaces.
3. Departmental Noticeboards: Check floors in your school or faculty for ad-hoc roles like survey assistants.
4. External Platforms: Use Indeed, StudentJob UK, or Reed for local searches. For tutoring, platforms like Superprof connect you with clients.
5. Networking: Attend career fairs in September and February, or join student societies for insider tips.

To apply, prepare a concise CV highlighting relevant skills and availability. Tailor cover letters to emphasize your student status and flexibility. Interviews are often informal; practice common questions like "How do you manage time between work and studies?" International students should check visa restrictions—most allow up to 20 hours per week during term time.

Benefits and Tips for Success

Part-time work at Glasgow University brings multiple advantages. Financially, it covers living costs in a city where student rent averages £400-£600 monthly. Professionally, roles build transferable skills like teamwork and time management, enhancing employability—university data shows working students graduate with stronger CVs. Socially, jobs foster connections, reducing isolation in a new city.

Top tips for thriving:

• Start early: Apply in August for September starts to beat competition.
• Balance wisely: Use the university's academic advisor service if workload feels overwhelming.
• Seek support: The Careers Service offers free CV workshops and mock interviews.
• Tax awareness: Earnings under £12,570 annually are tax-free; track via HMRC's student guide.
• Health and safety: Choose roles with clear contracts and union-backed protections.

In summary, part-time jobs at the University of Glasgow empower students to gain independence and experience without derailing academics. With proactive searching and strategic choices, you can turn work into a stepping stone for future success. Explore the opportunities today and make the most of your time in this historic city.