Part-Time Job Opportunities at The University of Sunderland

support students in balancing work with their studies, providing valuable experience and financial independence. Sunderland, located in the North East of England, offers a vibrant job market for students, both on and off campus. Whether you're looking to earn extra cash, build your CV, or gain industry-specific skills, there are numerous options tailored to flexible schedules around lectures and assignments.

On-Campus Part-Time Jobs

The University of Sunderland prioritizes its students for on-campus roles, making it convenient to work without commuting. These positions often come with perks like flexible hours and easy access to university facilities. Common opportunities include:

• Student Ambassadors: Represent the university at open days, campus tours, and events. This role involves public speaking and networking, ideal for outgoing students. Pay typically ranges from £9-£11 per hour.
• Library Assistants: Help with shelving books, assisting peers with resources, and managing IT queries. Shifts are usually evenings or weekends, paying around £10 per hour.
• Catering and Bar Staff: Work in university cafes, restaurants, or the Students' Union bar. Roles involve serving food, handling cash, and customer service. Hourly rates start at £10.50, with tips possible.
• Administrative Support: Assist departments with data entry, event setup, or reception duties. These jobs suit organized students and offer £9-£12 per hour.
• Research Assistants: For postgraduate or final-year undergrads, support academic staff in projects. Pay can be higher, up to £13 per hour, and provides excellent CV boosts.

To apply for on-campus jobs, check the university's JobShop portal or visit the Careers and Employability Service in the Murray Library. Vacancies are updated regularly, and many roles require a quick online application or interview.

Off-Campus Part-Time Jobs in Sunderland

Beyond the campus, Sunderland's local economy thrives in retail, hospitality, and services, offering plentiful part-time roles. The city's proximity to Newcastle and the coast also opens doors to seasonal work. Popular options include:

• Retail Assistants: Positions in shops like Primark, Tesco, or local boutiques. Duties include stocking shelves and cashier work; pay is £9-£11 per hour with weekend shifts.
• Hospitality Roles: Waiting tables or bar work in pubs, restaurants, or hotels along the waterfront. Evening and weekend availability is key, with rates from £10-£12 per hour plus tips.
• Delivery Drivers: For companies like Uber Eats or Amazon Flex. Flexible hours suit students with bikes or cars; earnings average £10-£15 per hour including tips.
• Tutoring or Childcare: Private tutoring in subjects like maths or English, or babysitting via platforms like Childcare.co.uk. Rates can reach £15-£20 per hour based on experience.
• Event Staff: Seasonal work at festivals, sports events, or the Stadium of Light (home to Sunderland AFC). Pay varies from £10-£14 per hour for short shifts.

International students should note UK visa rules: undergraduates can work up to 20 hours per week during term time, and full-time during holidays. Always verify eligibility through the university's International Office.

How to Find and Apply for Part-Time Jobs

Finding the right job starts with targeted searching. The university's Careers and Employability Service offers free workshops on CV writing, interview skills, and job hunting. Key resources include:

1. University Platforms: Use the Sunderland JobShop and MyFuture portal for exclusive listings.
2. Online Job Boards: Sites like Indeed, StudentJob UK, Reed, and LinkedIn filter for part-time roles in Sunderland.
3. Local Networks: Check noticeboards in the Students' Union, visit high streets, or join university Facebook groups like "Sunderland Students Jobs."
4. Agencies: Register with temp agencies like Adecco or Blue Arrow for quick hospitality placements.

Prepare a strong application by tailoring your CV to highlight relevant skills, such as teamwork from group projects. Interviews often focus on availability and reliability. Aim to apply early, as competition is high during freshers' week.

Benefits of Part-Time Work

Securing a part-time job enhances your university experience in multiple ways:

• Financial Support: Earn £800-£1,200 monthly (at 20 hours/week), covering rent, food, or travel.
• Skill Development: Build transferable skills like communication, time management, and customer service, boosting employability post-graduation.
• Networking: Connect with professionals and peers, potentially leading to internships or references.
• Work-Life Balance: Many roles accommodate study schedules, reducing stress and promoting independence.

Sample Part-Time Job Overview

Job Type	Location	Hourly Pay	Typical Hours
Student Ambassador	On-Campus	£9-£11	Evenings/Weekends (5-15 hrs)
Retail Assistant	Off-Campus (City Centre)	£9-£11	Weekends (10-20 hrs)
Hospitality Staff	Off-Campus (Restaurants)	£10-£12 + tips	Evenings (15 hrs)
Library Assistant	On-Campus	£10	Flexible (10 hrs)

Tips for Success

To thrive in part-time work while studying:

• Balance Your Schedule: Use a planner to avoid clashing with deadlines; limit to 15-20 hours weekly.
• Seek Support: Consult the university's wellbeing team if work affects your studies.
• Upskill: Take free online courses in areas like basic accounting for admin roles.
• Tax Awareness: Register for a National Insurance number if earning over £12,570 annually; use HMRC's student guide.
• Health and Safety: Choose reputable employers and report issues to the union.

By exploring these opportunities, University of Sunderland students can turn part-time work into a stepping stone for future careers. Start by visiting the Careers Service today to kickstart your journey.