Part-Time Job Opportunities at the University of South Wales

The University of South Wales (USW) offers a vibrant environment for students seeking part-time employment to support their studies, gain experience, and build their CVs. With campuses in Cardiff, Pontypridd, and Newport, USW students have access to a range of on-campus and local off-campus jobs. Balancing work and academics is key, and many roles are flexible around lecture schedules. Whether you're an undergraduate or postgraduate, part-time work can help cover living costs while developing essential skills like teamwork and time management.

On-Campus Job Opportunities

USW provides numerous part-time roles directly on campus, making it convenient for students to work without long commutes. These positions often prioritize current students and offer perks like discounted meals or gym access. Common opportunities include:

• Student Ambassadors: Represent USW at open days, school visits, and events. Duties involve guiding tours, speaking to prospective students, and promoting university life. Pay: £10-£12 per hour. Hours: Flexible, up to 15 hours/week during term time.
• Library Assistants: Help with shelving books, customer service at desks, and supporting study sessions. Ideal for those studying humanities or IT. Pay: Around £9.50-£11 per hour. Shifts: Evenings and weekends.
• Catering and Retail Staff: Work in campus cafes, shops, or sports centers. Roles range from barista to event setup. Pay: £10-£13 per hour, including tips in some areas. Flexible hours suit busy students.
• Administrative Support: Assist in departments like admissions or student services with data entry and filing. Great for admin or business students. Pay: £9-£11 per hour.
• Research Assistants: For postgraduates, help professors with projects in fields like engineering or health sciences. Pay: £11-£15 per hour, often with academic credit.

To apply, check the USW Student Jobs portal on the intranet or visit the Careers and Employability Service in the Students' Union building on the Pontypridd campus.

Off-Campus Job Opportunities

Beyond the university, the surrounding areas in South Wales boast a strong job market, especially in retail, hospitality, and public services. Cardiff, as the capital, offers urban excitement, while Newport and Pontypridd provide community-focused roles. Popular sectors include:

Sector	Example Roles	Average Pay (per hour)	Location Tips
Hospitality	Waiter/Waitress, Bar Staff, Kitchen Assistant	£9-£12 + tips	Cardiff city center (e.g., near Principality Stadium) or Newport's high street pubs.
Retail	Sales Assistant, Stockroom Worker	£9.50-£11	Shopping centers like Cardiff Bay Retail Park or Pontypridd town center stores.
Customer Service	Call Center Operative, Receptionist	£10-£12	Local businesses in Treforest Industrial Estate near Pontypridd campus.
Event and Tourism	Tour Guide, Event Steward	£10-£14 (seasonal)	Cardiff's Millennium Centre or summer festivals in Newport.
Delivery and Logistics	Cycle Courier, Warehouse Picker	£10-£13	Gig economy apps like Deliveroo in urban areas; flexible for evenings.

These roles often require minimal experience, making them accessible for first-year students. International students should note the UK visa limit of 20 hours/week during term time.

How to Find and Apply for Part-Time Jobs

USW's Careers and Employability Service is your first stop. They offer free CV workshops, mock interviews, and a job board updated weekly. Key resources include:

1. Online Platforms: Use Indeed.co.uk, StudentJob UK, or Reed.co.uk with filters for "part-time" and "South Wales."
2. University Events: Attend career fairs in September and February at the Cardiff campus atrium.
3. Local Networks: Join USW societies like the Entrepreneurship Society for networking events with local employers.
4. Agencies: Register with temp agencies like Brook Street in Newport for short-term gigs.

When applying, tailor your CV to highlight transferable skills from volunteering or modules. Prepare for interviews by researching the employer—many value enthusiasm over experience.

Benefits and Tips for Success

Part-time jobs at USW not only provide income (average earnings: £150-£300/month for 10-15 hours/week) but also enhance employability. Benefits include: building a professional network, improving soft skills, and sometimes leading to graduate roles.

To succeed:

• Plan your schedule: Use the USW app to avoid clashes with classes or exams.
• Seek advice: Consult the Student Wellbeing team if work affects your studies.
• Start early: Apply in August for September starts.
• Track earnings: Use apps like WageWise for tax and National Insurance guidance.

In summary, part-time work at USW is a stepping stone to future success. With diverse options and supportive services, students can thrive both professionally and academically. Explore these opportunities to make the most of your time in South Wales.