On-Campus Part-Time Jobs

Harvard University offers a wealth of on-campus part-time job opportunities tailored for students, allowing you to gain valuable experience while balancing your academic commitments. These positions are often flexible, with hours that accommodate class schedules, and many are part of the federal work-study program. On-campus jobs typically pay between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on the role and department.

• Library and Research Assistants: Help manage collections, assist patrons, or support faculty research. Ideal for those interested in academia or information sciences. Shifts are usually 5-15 hours per week.
• Dining Services: Roles in Harvard's dining halls include food preparation, serving, and event setup. These jobs foster teamwork and customer service skills, with evening and weekend availability.
• Administrative Support: Work in offices across schools like Harvard Business School or the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. Tasks involve data entry, scheduling, and event coordination. Great for building professional networks.
• Tutoring and Peer Mentoring: Assist fellow students in subjects from math to languages through the Harvard College Writing Program or academic departments. Pays well and enhances your own knowledge.
• Campus Safety and Facilities: Positions like tour guides, maintenance aides, or IT support in residence halls. These roles contribute to the community and offer steady hours.

To explore these, visit the Harvard Student Employment Office website, where postings are updated regularly. Many jobs require a resume and a brief interview, and international students should check visa restrictions via the International Office.

Off-Campus Part-Time Opportunities

Beyond Harvard's gates, the vibrant Cambridge and Boston area provides diverse off-campus jobs that complement university life. Proximity to tech hubs, hospitals, and cultural institutions means abundant options in retail, hospitality, and professional services. Expect hourly wages from $14 to $30, with transportation via the MBTA (T) making commutes feasible.

Job Category	Description	Average Pay/Hour	Typical Hours
Retail & Customer Service	Sales associate at stores like Harvard Square bookstores or cafes.	$15-$18	10-20 hours/week
Healthcare Support	Aide roles at nearby Massachusetts General Hospital or labs.	$18-$25	Flexible, evenings
Tech & Startups	Internships or assistant positions at Kendall Square companies.	$20-$30	Part-time, project-based
Hospitality & Events	Waitstaff or event staff at Boston venues.	$14-$20 + tips	Weekends, 5-15 hours

Platforms like Indeed, Handshake, or the Crimson Careers portal list these opportunities. Harvard's Career Services advises starting early in the semester to secure spots, and always prioritize jobs within a 30-minute commute to maintain work-study balance.

Federal Work-Study Program

If you're eligible for financial aid, the Federal Work-Study (FWS) program is a game-changer. It subsidizes up to 50% of your wages for on- or off-campus jobs, helping cover tuition or living expenses. To qualify, complete the FAFSA and indicate interest on your aid application. Harvard awards over $10 million annually in work-study funds, prioritizing need-based students.

1. Check eligibility through the Financial Aid Office.
2. Search for FWS-tagged jobs on the student portal.
3. Apply directly; selections are competitive but plentiful.
4. Track earnings via payroll to ensure compliance with award limits (typically $2,000-$4,000 per year).

This program not only provides income but also resume-building experience, with many alumni crediting it for career starts.

Application Tips and Best Practices

Securing a part-time job at Harvard requires proactive steps. Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills, such as time management or prior work experience. Prepare for interviews by researching the department—professors value enthusiasm and reliability.

Key Tips:

• Start Early: Apply 4-6 weeks before the semester; summer jobs fill quickly too.
• Network: Attend job fairs at the Harvard Coop or connect via LinkedIn with current employees.
• Balance Workload: Limit to 10-20 hours/week to avoid academic strain; use the academic calendar to plan around exams.
• Legal Considerations: F-1 visa holders can work up to 20 hours/week on-campus; off-campus requires CPT/OPT approval.

Harvard's Office of Career Services offers workshops on resume writing and interview prep—sign up via their portal for personalized guidance.

Benefits of Part-Time Work

Engaging in part-time jobs yields more than just financial perks. You'll develop soft skills like communication and problem-solving, essential for post-graduation success. Many positions offer networking with faculty and alumni, potentially leading to internships or recommendations. Financially, earnings can offset costs—average students make $3,000-$5,000 yearly. Moreover, jobs in research or tutoring directly enhance your academic profile, making you stand out in competitive fields.

Ultimately, part-time work at Harvard empowers you to thrive holistically, blending income, experience, and community involvement. For the latest listings, bookmark the Student Employment site and consult advisors regularly.