Part-Time Job Opportunities at the University of Surrey

The University of Surrey, located in the vibrant town of Guildford, offers a wealth of part-time job opportunities for students looking to gain experience, earn money, and build their CVs while studying. With its strong emphasis on employability, the university supports students through various on-campus and local off-campus roles. These jobs are flexible, allowing you to balance work with your academic commitments. Whether you're an undergraduate or postgraduate, part-time work can enhance your skills in areas like communication, teamwork, and time management.

Why Pursue Part-Time Jobs? Part-time employment not only helps cover living expenses but also provides practical experience relevant to your degree. At Surrey, many roles are tailored to student schedules, with shifts often available during evenings, weekends, or term breaks. International students should note that UK visa regulations typically allow up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays—always check with the International Student Office for specifics.

Benefits of Working Part-Time at University

• Financial Support: Earn £9.50–£12 per hour (UK minimum wage for 18+ is £10.42 as of 2023), helping with tuition fees, rent, or leisure activities.
• Skill Development: Gain transferable skills like customer service, IT proficiency, or event management, which boost your graduate employability.
• Networking: Connect with staff, alumni, and peers, potentially leading to internships or full-time offers post-graduation.
• Wellbeing Boost: Structured routines can reduce stress and foster independence.
• Discounts and Perks: Many on-campus jobs offer free meals, gym access, or travel subsidies.

On-Campus Job Opportunities

The University of Surrey prioritizes its students for internal vacancies, making on-campus roles convenient and accessible. These positions are advertised via the university's job portal and careers service. Common roles include:

Public speaking, marketing

Job Type	Description	Typical Hours	Skills Gained
Library Assistant	Helping with book shelving, customer queries, and IT support in the state-of-the-art library.	10–15 hours/week	Organization, research skills
Catering and Bar Staff	Working in union cafes, bars, or event catering at the Students' Union.	Evenings/weekends, 8–20 hours	Customer service, hospitality
Administrative Support	Assisting departments with data entry, reception duties, or event setup.	Flexible, 5–12 hours	Office skills, communication
Research Assistant	Supporting faculty projects in labs or surveys, ideal for STEM students.	Term-time flexible, up to 15 hours	Analytical thinking, academic exposure
Campus Ambassador/Tour Guide	Leading campus tours or promoting events to prospective students.	Weekends, 4–10 hours

These roles often require no prior experience, with training provided. Pay starts at the living wage, and some positions offer paid holiday entitlements.

Off-Campus Opportunities in Guildford and Beyond

Guildford's proximity to London (just 35 minutes by train) opens up diverse local jobs. The town's high street, retail parks, and tech hubs provide plentiful options. Popular sectors include:

• Retail and Sales: Shops like Marks & Spencer or independent boutiques need sales assistants. Expect £10–£11/hour.
• Hospitality: Restaurants, pubs, and hotels in Guildford seek waitstaff or baristas, especially during weekends.
• Tutoring: If you're strong in a subject, platforms like Tutorful connect you with local pupils for £15–£25/hour.
• Delivery and Logistics: Gig economy roles with Deliveroo or Uber Eats offer flexible shifts around your timetable.
• Seasonal Work: Summer festivals or Christmas retail spikes provide short-term earnings.

For off-campus jobs, ensure compliance with your student visa if applicable. The university's Careers and Employability Service runs workshops on local job hunting.

How to Find and Apply for Part-Time Jobs

1. Register on the University Portal: Access Surrey Pathfinder, the online jobs board, and set up job alerts.
2. Visit the Careers Centre: Located in the Senate House, drop-ins offer CV reviews and interview prep (Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm).
3. Network: Attend career fairs, society events, or use LinkedIn to connect with employers.
4. Online Platforms: Check Indeed, StudentJob UK, or Reed for Guildford listings. Tailor your CV to highlight relevant coursework or volunteering.
5. Apply Early: Peak recruitment happens at the start of terms; prepare a cover letter emphasizing your student status and availability.

The application process is straightforward—most roles involve an online form or quick interview. Successful applicants often start within a week.

Tips for Balancing Work and Studies

To thrive, prioritize your academics. Limit work to 15 hours/week initially, and use tools like the university's planner app. Communicate availability clearly with employers, and seek advice from your personal tutor if workload feels overwhelming. Remember, Surrey's support includes counseling for any stress related to juggling responsibilities.

In summary, part-time jobs at the University of Surrey are a gateway to personal and professional growth. With diverse options and robust support, you'll find roles that fit your lifestyle and ambitions. Start exploring today to make the most of your university experience!