Part-Time Job Opportunities at the University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge offers a vibrant ecosystem for students seeking part-time employment, allowing them to gain valuable experience while funding their studies. With its historic setting in Cambridge, the university and surrounding area provide diverse options ranging from on-campus roles to local businesses. These jobs not only help cover living costs but also build skills like time management and networking. International students should note visa restrictions, typically limiting work to 20 hours per week during term time under the Student visa rules.

On-Campus Part-Time Jobs

Working on campus is convenient, often flexible around lectures, and provides direct access to university facilities. Common roles include:

• Library Assistants: Shelving books, helping patrons, and managing digital resources. Pay: £10-£12 per hour. Ideal for organized students with an interest in academia.
• Student Ambassadors: Guiding tours for prospective students and alumni events. Involves public speaking; pay around £11 per hour plus training opportunities.
• Research Assistants: Supporting professors with data entry or lab work. Rates: £12-£15 per hour, depending on the department. Great for those pursuing postgraduate studies.
• Café and Catering Staff: Serving in college dining halls or the University Centre. Flexible shifts; pay: £10.50-£11.50 per hour, including tips in some cases.
• IT Support Helpers: Assisting with computer labs or software issues. Requires basic tech skills; pay: £11-£13 per hour.

To find these, check the University Jobs Portal on the internal student intranet or college noticeboards. Many positions are advertised through the Careers Service, which hosts job fairs twice a year.

Off-Campus Part-Time Jobs

The city of Cambridge buzzes with opportunities in retail, hospitality, and tech due to its proximity to Silicon Fen. Students often commute by bike, making local jobs accessible.

• Retail and Shop Assistants: Positions at stores like Waterstones or local boutiques. Involves customer service; average pay: £10-£11 per hour. Evening and weekend shifts suit student schedules.
• Hospitality Roles: Baristas at independent cafés or servers in pubs like The Eagle. Pay: £9.50-£12 per hour, with potential for overtime during tourist seasons.
• Tutoring and Freelance Work: Private tutoring in subjects like maths or languages via platforms like Tutorful. Rates: £15-£25 per hour, leveraging Cambridge's academic prestige.
• Event Staff: Working at conferences or festivals at the Cambridge Union. Temporary gigs paying £11-£14 per hour.
• Delivery and Gig Economy: Bike couriers for Deliveroo or Uber Eats. Flexible hours; earnings: £10-£15 per hour including tips, though weather-dependent.

External job sites like Indeed, StudentJob UK, and Reed.co.uk are excellent for searching. The Cambridge Students' Union (CUSU) also runs a job board tailored for undergraduates.

Legal and Practical Considerations

Visa and Work Permits: UK/EU students have unrestricted rights, but international students on Tier 4/Student visas can work up to 20 hours weekly during term and full-time in vacations. Always verify with the International Student Office to avoid visa breaches.

Tax and National Insurance: Earnings under £12,570 annually are tax-free, but register for a National Insurance number via the Jobcentre Plus. Use the university's tax advice service for guidance.

To balance work and studies, aim for 10-15 hours per week. The university's Wellbeing Service offers counseling if workload becomes overwhelming.

Common Part-Time Jobs: Overview Table

Job Type	Location	Average Hourly Pay (£)	Skills Gained
Library Assistant	On-Campus	10-12	Organization, Research
Retail Assistant	Off-Campus	10-11	Customer Service, Sales
Tutor	Flexible	15-25	Teaching, Communication
Café Staff	On/Off-Campus	10.50-11.50	Teamwork, Multitasking
Event Steward	Off-Campus	11-14	Event Management, Safety

Tips for Securing a Part-Time Job:

1. Update Your CV: Highlight academic achievements and any prior experience. Tailor it to the role using the Careers Service's templates.
2. Network: Attend college career events or join societies like the Cambridge University Entrepreneurs for leads.
3. Apply Early: Peak hiring occurs before term starts in October and January.
4. Prepare for Interviews: Practice common questions like "How do you manage time?" Emphasize your student status for flexibility.
5. Seek Support: The Student Advice Service provides free CV reviews and mock interviews.

Part-time work at Cambridge enhances your university experience, fostering independence and professional growth. Many alumni credit these roles for career insights. Explore opportunities proactively, and remember that the university prioritizes your academic success above all.