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Leeds University

Leeds University

Leeds, UKRank #24

The University of Leeds is a public research university in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England. It was established in 1874 as the Yorkshire College of Science. In 1884 it merged with the Leeds School of Medicine (established 1831) and was renamed Yorkshire College. It became part of the federal Victoria University in 1887, joining Owens College (which became the University of Manchester) and University College Liverpool (which became the University of Liverpool).[6] In 1904 a royal charter was granted to the University of Leeds by King Edward VII.[7] The university has 36,330 students, the 5th largest university in the UK (out of 169). From 2006 to present, the university has consistently been ranked within the top 5 (alongside the University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, the University of Nottingham and the University of Edinburgh) in the United Kingdom for the number of applications received.[8] Leeds had an income of £751.7 million in 2020/21, of which £130.1 million was from research grants and contracts.[2] The university has financial endowments of £90.5 million (2020–21), ranking outside the top ten British universities by financial endowment.[2] Notable alumni include current Leader of the Labour Party Keir Starmer, former Secretary of State Jack Straw, former co-chairman of the Conservative Party Sayeeda Warsi, Piers Sellers (NASA astronaut) and six Nobel laureates.[9][10]

Part-Time Job Opportunities

Find part-time work opportunities while studying at Leeds University

Part-Time Job Opportunities at the University of Leeds

The University of Leeds offers a vibrant ecosystem for students seeking part-time jobs to balance their studies with earning experience and income. With a large campus and proximity to the bustling city of Leeds, opportunities abound both on-site and in the local area. These roles not only provide financial support but also help build essential skills like time management, communication, and teamwork. Whether you're an undergraduate or postgraduate, part-time work can enhance your CV and contribute to your personal development.

Benefits of Part-Time Jobs for Leeds Students

Engaging in part-time work during your studies at Leeds University comes with numerous advantages:

  • Financial Independence: Earn up to £10-£15 per hour, helping cover living costs in one of the UK's most affordable student cities.
  • Skill Development: Gain practical experience in customer service, administration, or research, which is invaluable for future careers.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and peers, potentially leading to internships or full-time roles post-graduation.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Many jobs accommodate academic timetables, especially during term time with shifts around lectures.
  • Wellbeing Boost: Working part-time can reduce stress by providing structure and a sense of achievement outside of studies.

According to the university's careers service, over 70% of Leeds students participate in some form of part-time work, contributing to higher employability rates upon graduation.

On-Campus Part-Time Jobs

The University of Leeds prioritizes its students for various on-campus positions, making it convenient to work without commuting far. These roles are often advertised through the university's internal job portal and are ideal for maintaining a healthy work-study balance.

Common on-campus opportunities include:

  • Library Assistants: Shelving books, helping with queries, and supporting digital resources. Shifts are typically evenings or weekends.
  • Student Union Roles: Working at bars, cafes, or events in the Leeds University Union (LUU), offering social interaction and free entry to events.
  • Research Assistants: Supporting academic staff with data entry, literature reviews, or lab work—perfect for those in STEM fields.
  • Campus Tour Guides: Leading prospective students around the historic Parkinson Building and Riley Library, enhancing your public speaking skills.
  • Administrative Support: In departments like finance or student services, handling filing, emails, and reception duties.

To apply, check the university's Student Jobs webpage or the LUU employment board. Many positions require a quick online application and a casual interview.

Off-Campus Part-Time Jobs in Leeds

Leeds city centre is just a short bus ride from campus, opening doors to diverse retail, hospitality, and service roles. The city's economy, driven by sectors like finance, tech, and creative industries, provides ample options for students.

Popular off-campus jobs include:

  1. Hospitality Staff: Baristas at independent cafes like North Star Coffee or servers in restaurants along the Briggate strip. Expect tips on top of hourly wages.
  2. Retail Positions: Sales assistants at Trinity Leeds shopping centre or high-street stores like Zara and H&M, with seasonal boosts during holidays.
  3. Delivery and Gig Economy: Flexible roles with Deliveroo, Uber Eats, or Amazon Flex, allowing you to work around your schedule using a bike or car.
  4. Tutoring and Freelance: Offering subject-specific tutoring via platforms like Tutorful, especially if you're strong in languages or sciences.
  5. Event and Festival Work: Seasonal gigs at Leeds Festival or local markets, providing short-term but high-energy experiences.

Local agencies like Reed or Indeed often list student-friendly roles. Remember, international students on Tier 4 visas can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.

Example Part-Time Job Listings

Job Type Description Hourly Pay Location
Library Assistant Assist with book circulation and user support £11.50 On-Campus (Brotherton Library)
Barista Prepare coffees and handle customer orders £10.50 + tips Off-Campus (City Centre Cafe)
Research Support Data analysis for faculty projects £12.00 On-Campus (School of Engineering)
Retail Assistant Stocking shelves and cashier duties £10.90 Off-Campus (Trinity Leeds)
Event Steward Manage crowds at university events £11.00 On-Campus (Union Events)

How to Find and Secure Part-Time Jobs

Start by registering with the University of Leeds Careers Centre, which offers free CV workshops and job-matching services. Platforms like LinkedIn, StudentJob UK, and the National Careers Service are also excellent resources. Tailor your application to highlight your student status and availability.

Pro Tip: Network at university fairs or LUU societies—many jobs are filled through word-of-mouth. Always check visa restrictions and tax implications; the university's international office can advise on National Insurance contributions.

Balancing part-time work with studies is key. Aim for 10-15 hours per week to avoid burnout, and use tools like the university's planner app to schedule effectively. With Leeds' supportive environment, part-time jobs can transform your university experience into a launchpad for future success.

For more details, visit the Leeds Careers Portal or contact studentemployment@leeds.ac.uk.

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