Part-time jobs offer Keele University students a fantastic way to gain valuable experience, earn money, and balance their studies effectively. With its scenic campus in Staffordshire, Keele provides a range of on-campus and local opportunities tailored to student schedules. Whether you're looking to work in the library, assist in research, or take on roles in the local community, these positions can enhance your CV while helping cover living expenses. The university's Careers and Employability Service actively supports students in finding suitable roles, ensuring flexibility around lectures and exams.

Types of Part-Time Jobs Available

Keele University boasts diverse part-time opportunities, both on-campus and off-campus. On-campus jobs are particularly convenient, allowing you to stay close to your accommodation and classes. Here's a breakdown of common roles:

• Student Ambassadors: Represent the university at open days, school visits, and events. Involves public speaking and guiding tours. Typically 4-10 hours per week, paying around £9-£11 per hour.
• Library Assistants: Help with shelving books, customer service at the desk, and supporting study spaces. Shifts are often evenings or weekends, with hourly rates starting at £10.
• Catering and Retail Staff: Work in the Students' Union outlets, such as the Graduate Cafe or campus shops. Roles include barista, cashier, or kitchen helper, offering flexible hours during term time.
• Research Assistants: Support academic staff in departments like Medicine or Humanities. Ideal for those interested in their field of study; pay varies from £10-£12 per hour.
• Administrative Support: Assist in offices like the International Centre or Sports Centre with data entry, reception duties, or event coordination.

Off-campus, Newcastle-under-Lyme and nearby Stoke-on-Trent offer retail, hospitality, and tutoring jobs. Local supermarkets like Tesco or Asda frequently hire students for shelf-stocking or checkout roles, while pubs and cafes provide evening shifts.

Job Type	Location	Average Hours/Week	Pay Range (per hour)
Student Ambassador	On-Campus	4-10	£9-£11
Library Assistant	On-Campus	5-15	£10-£12
Catering Staff	On/Off-Campus	10-20	£9.50-£11
Retail Assistant	Off-Campus	8-16	£9-£10.50
Tutor	Flexible	5-12	£12-£15

This table highlights popular options, but availability fluctuates with the academic calendar. International students should check visa restrictions, typically allowing up to 20 hours per week during term time.

How to Find and Apply for Part-Time Jobs

Securing a part-time job at Keele starts with leveraging university resources. The Careers and Employability Service is your first port of call, offering a dedicated job portal called KeeleWorks. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Register on KeeleWorks: Create a profile highlighting your skills and availability. Browse listings updated weekly.
2. Visit the Students' Union: Their employment hub posts casual vacancies, from event stewarding to bar work.
3. Check Departmental Boards: Many faculties, like the School of Psychology or Business, advertise paid roles for undergrads.
4. Use External Platforms: Sites like Indeed, StudentJob UK, or Reed.co.uk filter for Keele postcode (ST5). Local Facebook groups for Staffordshire students are also useful.
5. Network: Attend career fairs in September and February, or join societies that offer work experience, such as the Keele Volunteer Bureau.
6. Prepare Your Application: Tailor your CV to emphasize transferable skills from studies or hobbies. Cover letters should mention how the role fits your schedule.

Applications often involve online forms or quick interviews. Peak recruitment happens at the start of term, so apply early. The university's WorkLink program even matches students with paid internships during holidays.

Benefits of Part-Time Work for Keele Students

Balancing a job with studies isn't just about income— it builds essential skills. Financial independence is key, with average earnings helping offset the £9,250 annual tuition and living costs in Staffordshire (around £800-£1,000/month). But the gains go further:

• Skill Development: Roles like ambassadorship hone communication and teamwork, boosting employability post-graduation.
• Networking: On-campus jobs connect you with staff who can provide references or research opportunities.
• Work-Life Balance: Keele's supportive environment includes flexible shifts and academic advisors to ensure jobs don't impact grades.
• Wellbeing Boost: Earning money reduces stress, and campus roles foster a sense of community.
• Career Insights: Trying hospitality might inspire a business degree, or lab work could lead to postgraduate paths.

According to Keele’s annual student survey, over 60% of working students report improved time management and confidence. Plus, some roles offer perks like free gym access or discounted meals.

Tips for Success

To thrive in part-time work:

• Choose jobs near campus to minimize travel time—Keele's rural location means buses to town take 15-20 minutes.
• Track hours with apps like Toggl to avoid exceeding visa limits if applicable.
• Seek advice from the Student Wellbeing Team if juggling work feels overwhelming.
• Update your CV regularly; many jobs lead to full-time offers after graduation.
• Consider seasonal roles, like holiday retail surges, for extra cash.

Part-time jobs at Keele aren't just a paycheck—they're a stepping stone to future success. With the right approach, you can earn, learn, and enjoy university life to the fullest.