Part-Time Job Opportunities at the University of New Brunswick (UNB)

As an Indian student planning to study abroad in Canada for the upcoming intake, securing a part-time job at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) can be a game-changer. With campuses in Fredericton and Saint John, UNB offers a supportive environment for international students to balance academics with work. Part-time jobs not only help cover living expenses like rent, food, and groceries—crucial in a new country—but also provide valuable Canadian work experience, enhance your resume, and build professional networks. Under Canada's student work policies, you can work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during scheduled breaks, making it ideal for managing tuition and daily costs without compromising your studies.

Eligibility for International Students

Before diving in, ensure you're eligible. As an Indian student with a valid study permit, you qualify for off-campus work without needing a separate work permit, provided you're enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) like UNB. Key rules include:

• Full-time enrollment: Maintain at least 12 credits per semester to remain eligible.
• Work limits: No more than 20 hours/week during classes; unlimited during holidays like summer or winter breaks.
• Post-graduation options: After completing your program, apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to continue working full-time, boosting your chances for permanent residency via Express Entry.
• Social Insurance Number (SIN): Obtain this free from Service Canada upon arrival to start working legally.

UNB's International Student Affairs office offers workshops on work rights, helping you navigate these as a newcomer from India.

Types of Part-Time Jobs Available

UNB provides diverse on-campus and off-campus opportunities tailored to your skills and schedule. On-campus jobs are convenient, often flexible around classes, and don't require commuting in New Brunswick's variable weather. Popular roles include:

• Library and Academic Support: Shelving books, assisting with research, or tutoring peers—perfect if you're strong in subjects like engineering or business.
• Residence Life: Roles as resident advisors (RAs) or front desk staff, involving community events and student support.
• Dining and Retail: Working at campus cafes, bookstores, or food courts, ideal for those with hospitality experience from India.
• Research and Lab Assistants: Helping professors in labs, especially in STEM fields, which can lead to scholarships or co-op placements.
• Event and Administrative Roles: Supporting student unions, sports events, or IT help desks.

Off-campus, Fredericton and Saint John offer jobs in retail, hospitality, and customer service. With New Brunswick's growing economy, sectors like IT, healthcare, and tourism hire students. For instance, nearby call centers or restaurants often seek bilingual talent, giving an edge if you speak Hindi or other Indian languages alongside English.

How to Find and Apply for Jobs

UNB makes job hunting straightforward through dedicated platforms. Start early—apply 1-2 months before your intake to align with fall or winter semesters.

1. UNB Job Portal: Access UNBWorks on the student portal for exclusive on-campus listings. Update your resume to highlight any Indian academic or volunteer experience.
2. Career Services: Visit the UNB Career Development Centre for resume reviews, mock interviews, and job fairs tailored for international students.
3. Online Platforms: Use Indeed.ca, LinkedIn, or Workopolis, filtering for "student" or "part-time" in Fredericton/Saint John. Join Indian student groups on Facebook for local tips.
4. Networking: Attend UNB's International Student Orientation to connect with alumni and employers. Indian cultural clubs can link you to community jobs.
5. Co-op Programs: If in eligible programs like computer science, opt for paid co-ops that count as work experience.

Pro tip: Tailor applications to Canadian standards—keep resumes to one page, quantify achievements (e.g., "Managed team of 5 in college event"), and prepare for behavioral interviews.

Average Wages and Financial Benefits

New Brunswick's minimum wage is $15.30 per hour (as of 2024), with student jobs often paying $16-20/hour. Working 20 hours/week could earn you CAD 1,200-1,600 monthly, covering essentials like a shared apartment (CAD 600-800) or groceries (CAD 300). For Indian students, this offsets high tuition (CAD 18,000-25,000/year for undergrad) and builds savings for family remittances.

Job Type	Average Hourly Wage (CAD)	Weekly Earnings (20 hrs)	Skills Gained
On-Campus Library Assistant	15.50 - 18.00	310 - 360	Research, organization
Residence Front Desk	16.00 - 19.00	320 - 380	Customer service, teamwork
Off-Campus Retail	15.30 - 17.00	306 - 340	Sales, communication
Lab/Research Assistant	17.00 - 22.00	340 - 440	Technical skills, analysis
Hospitality (Café/Server)	15.30 + tips	350+ (with tips)	Hospitality, multitasking

Taxes apply (around 15-20% for low earners), but you can claim refunds via student tax credits. UNB's financial aid office helps with budgeting tools.

Tips for Success as an Indian Student

Adapting to Canadian work culture emphasizes punctuality, initiative, and professionalism—qualities many Indian students excel in. Overcome challenges like accents or cold weather by practicing English and dressing appropriately. Balance is key: Use UNB's time management workshops to avoid burnout. Many graduates credit part-time jobs for securing full-time offers post-study, aiding PR pathways like the Atlantic Immigration Program in New Brunswick.

Embrace these opportunities at UNB to make your study abroad journey financially sustainable and enriching. With the right approach, you'll gain independence, skills, and memories that last a lifetime.