Part-Time Job Opportunities at the University of Hertfordshire

The University of Hertfordshire (UH) offers a vibrant environment for students seeking part-time employment to balance their studies and earn some income. Located in Hatfield, just 25 minutes from London by train, UH provides access to both on-campus and local off-campus opportunities. Part-time jobs are ideal for building skills, gaining experience, and managing finances without overwhelming academic commitments. The university's Careers and Employment Service actively supports students in finding suitable roles, ensuring they align with visa regulations for international students (typically up to 20 hours per week during term time).

On-Campus Job Opportunities

Working on campus is convenient, allowing you to stay close to lectures and accommodation. UH employs over 1,000 students annually in various roles. Common positions include:

• Library Assistants: Shelving books, helping with queries, and supporting study sessions. Pay: £9-£11 per hour. Shifts often fit around class schedules.
• Student Union Roles: Bar staff, event coordinators, or welcome ambassadors at the Forum Hertfordshire. These jobs enhance social skills and offer perks like free entry to events.
• Administrative Support: Data entry, reception duties in departments like Business or Engineering. Ideal for those interested in office environments.
• Campus Catering and Retail: Positions at the Hertfordshire Sports Village café or campus shops. Flexible hours, especially evenings and weekends.
• Research Assistants: For postgraduate students, helping professors with projects. Rates can reach £12-£15 per hour, depending on the department.

To apply, check the UH Jobs Portal on the student intranet or visit the Careers Service drop-in sessions. Many roles are advertised via email newsletters and the university's app.

Off-Campus Job Opportunities in Hatfield and Surroundings

Hatfield and nearby Welwyn Garden City offer diverse part-time options in retail, hospitality, and services. The town's proximity to London expands possibilities via public transport. Popular sectors include:

Job Type	Description	Average Pay	Typical Hours
Retail Sales Assistant	Working in shops like Tesco, Sainsbury's, or The Galleria mall outlets. Stocking shelves and customer service.	£8.50-£10.50/hour	Evenings/weekends, 10-20 hours
Hospitality Staff	Waitstaff or baristas at local pubs, restaurants, or chains like Costa Coffee. Fast-paced and social.	£9-£12/hour (tips extra)	Flexible, including nights
Delivery Driver	For services like Deliveroo or Uber Eats. Requires a bike or car; great for independent workers.	£10-£15/hour (variable)	On-demand, 5-15 hours
Tutoring or Childcare	Helping local families or through platforms like Tutorful. Suited for education students.	£12-£20/hour	Afternoons/evenings, 8-12 hours

Local job boards like Indeed, Reed, or Gumtree frequently list these. The university's shuttle bus to Welwyn Garden City makes commuting easy.

How to Find and Apply for Part-Time Jobs

Navigating the job market starts with preparation. Follow these steps:

1. Register with UH Careers Service: Attend workshops on CV writing and interview skills. They offer a job-matching service tailored to your course.
2. Use Online Platforms: Sign up for StudentJob UK, LinkedIn, and the National Careers Service. Filter for "part-time" and "student-friendly" roles.
3. Network on Campus: Join societies like the Entrepreneurs Society or attend career fairs held twice a year at the de Havilland Campus.
4. Prepare Documents: Update your CV to highlight transferable skills from studies or volunteering. Include a cover letter emphasizing your student status and availability.
5. Apply Early: Peak hiring occurs before Christmas and summer. International students must show a valid BRP (Biometric Residence Permit).

The application process typically involves online forms or in-person interviews. Expect a response within 1-2 weeks.

Benefits of Part-Time Work

Beyond income, part-time jobs at UH build your employability. You'll gain practical experience relevant to your degree—e.g., IT students in tech support roles. Financially, earnings can cover rent (£400-£600/month in Hatfield) or textbooks. The university's Student Hardship Fund complements this for those in need. Moreover, roles often lead to references for full-time jobs post-graduation. Studies show employed students improve time management and confidence.

Tips for Balancing Work and Studies

To succeed, prioritize academics:

• Choose jobs with flexible hours; avoid exceeding 20 hours/week to prevent burnout.
• Use UH's Time Management Workshops offered by the Student Centre.
• Track earnings for tax purposes—under £12,570 annually is tax-free via the Personal Allowance.
• Seek advice from the International Student Support team if visa issues arise.
• Start small: Begin with 8-10 hours to adjust your routine.

With dedication, part-time work at the University of Hertfordshire can enrich your university experience, fostering independence and professional growth. Explore opportunities today to make the most of your time in Hatfield.