On-Campus Part-Time Opportunities

The University of Southampton offers a variety of on-campus part-time jobs that allow students to gain valuable experience while balancing their studies. These roles are often flexible, fitting around lecture schedules, and provide direct exposure to university life. Working on campus also means shorter commutes and the chance to network with faculty and peers.

• Library and IT Support: Positions in the Hartley Library or other campus libraries involve shelving books, assisting with IT queries, or helping patrons find resources. These jobs typically require 10-15 hours per week and pay around £9-£11 per hour.
• Administrative Roles: Helping in departmental offices, such as data entry, reception duties, or event support. Ideal for students interested in office environments, with shifts often available during evenings or weekends.
• Research Assistants: Undergraduate or postgraduate students can assist professors with projects in fields like engineering, sciences, or humanities. These roles offer academic credit in some cases and pay £10-£12 per hour, providing hands-on research experience.
• Catering and Hospitality: Jobs in university dining halls, cafes, or at events like Open Days. Roles include barista work, serving food, or setup/cleanup, with flexible hours and rates starting at £9.50 per hour.
• Student Ambassadors: Representing the university at recruitment events, campus tours, or social media campaigns. This paid role (£10 per hour) enhances communication skills and looks great on CVs.

Many of these positions are advertised through the university's internal job portal, and priority is often given to current students. The average on-campus job lasts 6-12 months, allowing for skill development without long-term commitment.

Off-Campus Part-Time Jobs in Southampton

Southampton's vibrant city center and proximity to ports, retail hubs, and tourist spots make it an excellent location for off-campus work. Students can find roles that complement their interests and schedules, often within walking or cycling distance from campus.

Job Type	Description	Typical Pay	Hours
Retail Assistant	Working in shops like Westquay Shopping Centre, handling sales, stock, and customer service.	£9-£10.50/hour	10-20 hours/week
Hospitality (Waitstaff/Bar Work)	Serving in pubs, restaurants, or hotels near the waterfront, including events at the Mayflower Theatre.	£9.50-£12/hour (plus tips)	Evenings/weekends
Delivery Driver	Using bikes or cars for services like Deliveroo or Uber Eats, flexible around classes.	£10-£15/hour (variable)	Flexible
Tutoring or Freelance	Offering academic support via platforms like Tutorful, or freelance writing/graphic design.	£15-£25/hour	5-15 hours/week
Seasonal Work	Cruise ship support or summer festivals, leveraging Southampton's maritime heritage.	£10-£14/hour	Term-time or holidays

Off-campus jobs often require initiative to apply directly or through sites like Indeed or StudentJob UK. The city's economy supports over 5,000 part-time student positions annually, with many employers offering student discounts or transport perks.

Benefits of Part-Time Work for Southampton Students

Engaging in part-time employment while studying at the University of Southampton brings numerous advantages, from financial support to personal growth.

• Financial Independence: Earn £500-£1,000 monthly to cover living costs, reducing reliance on loans. The UK's National Minimum Wage for 18-20-year-olds is £8.60, but Southampton roles often exceed this.
• Skill Development: Build CV-boosting experiences in teamwork, time management, and customer service—essential for graduate employability.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and alumni, potentially leading to internships or full-time offers post-graduation.
• Work-Life Balance: University guidelines recommend no more than 15-20 hours per week to avoid impacting studies, with many jobs accommodating exam periods.
• Wellbeing Boost: Studies show part-time work reduces stress by providing structure and social interaction, especially in a supportive campus environment.

International students on Tier 4 visas can work up to 20 hours per week during term time, making these opportunities accessible to all.

How to Find and Apply for Part-Time Jobs

Securing a part-time job at or near the University of Southampton is straightforward with the right approach. Follow these steps:

1. Register with University Services: Join the Careers and Employability Service via MyCareerHub for exclusive job listings and CV workshops.
2. Search Online Portals: Check the university's JobShop, SUSU (Students' Union) noticeboards, and external sites like Reed or Gumtree.
3. Prepare Your Application: Tailor your CV to highlight relevant skills; include a cover letter emphasizing your student status and availability.
4. Attend Fairs and Events: Participate in the annual Careers Fair or employer drop-ins held on campus.
5. Apply and Interview: Submit applications promptly—many roles fill quickly. Practice common questions like "How do you manage work and studies?"
6. Seek Advice: Book a one-to-one session with a careers advisor for personalized guidance.

The process typically takes 2-4 weeks, with success rates high for proactive students.

University Support and Resources

The University of Southampton prioritizes student employment through dedicated resources. The Careers and Employability Centre offers free drop-in sessions, online modules on job hunting, and a mentorship program pairing students with industry professionals. SUSU runs a JobLink service connecting students to local employers, while the International Office provides visa-compliant advice for overseas students.

Additionally, the university's Employability Award recognizes part-time work contributions, enhancing transcripts. For those facing barriers, hardship funds or flexible role matching are available. Overall, these supports ensure part-time jobs align with academic success, with 85% of student workers reporting improved confidence and prospects.

In summary, part-time jobs at the University of Southampton offer practical ways to earn, learn, and grow. Whether on campus or in the city, these opportunities enrich the student experience in this dynamic coastal hub.