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University of the West of Scotland

University of the West of Scotland

Glasgow, UKRank #126

The University of the West of Scotland (Scottish Gaelic: Oilthigh na h-Alba an Iar), formerly the University of Paisley, is a public university with four campuses in south-western Scotland, in the towns of Paisley, Blantyre, Dumfries and Ayr, as well as a campus in London, England. The present institution dates from August 2007, following the merger of the University of Paisley with Bell College, Hamilton. It can trace its roots to the late 19th century, and has undergone numerous name changes and mergers over the last century, reflecting its gradual expansion throughout the west of Scotland region.

Part-Time Job Opportunities

Find part-time work opportunities while studying at University of the West of Scotland

Part-Time Job Opportunities at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS)

The University of the West of Scotland offers a variety of part-time job opportunities tailored for students, helping them balance studies with work experience and financial support. Whether you're looking to earn extra income, build your CV, or gain skills relevant to your degree, UWS provides accessible roles both on-campus and through partnerships with local employers. These positions are flexible, often fitting around lecture schedules, and can range from a few hours per week to more substantial commitments during term breaks.

Why Pursue Part-Time Work at UWS?

Engaging in part-time employment during your studies has numerous benefits. It not only helps cover living expenses but also enhances employability by developing soft skills like time management, communication, and teamwork. At UWS, many roles are directly linked to university services, allowing you to contribute to the community while networking with staff and peers. According to the UWS Careers and Employability Service, students who work part-time often report higher confidence levels and better academic performance due to improved discipline.

Types of Part-Time Jobs Available

UWS hosts a diverse array of part-time positions across its campuses in Paisley, Ayr, and Lanarkshire. These opportunities are advertised through the university's job portal, student union, and departmental noticeboards. Here's a breakdown of common categories:

  • On-Campus Roles: These are ideal for students seeking convenience and direct involvement in university life.
    • Student Ambassadors: Represent UWS at open days, tours, and events. Involves public speaking and engaging with prospective students. Pay: £9-£11 per hour.
    • Library Assistants: Support library operations, shelving books, and helping with IT queries. Flexible shifts, especially evenings and weekends. Pay: £10 per hour.
    • Catering and Retail Staff: Work in campus cafes, shops, or sports centers. Roles include barista, cashier, or kitchen helper. Pay: £9.50-£12 per hour, with tips in some cases.
  • Academic and Research Support: For those interested in their field of study.
    • Research Assistants: Aid professors with data collection or literature reviews. Often subject-specific, like in engineering or health sciences. Pay: £11-£14 per hour.
    • Tutoring Positions: Peer tutoring in subjects like maths or languages through the Student Learning Centre. Pay: £12 per hour.
  • Administrative and Events Support: Behind-the-scenes roles that build organizational skills.
    • Receptionists or Office Helpers: Greet visitors and handle admin tasks in departments. Pay: £10 per hour.
    • Event Stewards: Assist with conferences, sports events, or student society activities. Seasonal opportunities during festivals. Pay: £9-£11 per hour.
  • Off-Campus Partnerships: UWS collaborates with local businesses in Scotland for roles in retail, hospitality, and community services, often with transport support from campuses.

How to Find and Apply for Part-Time Jobs

Discovering opportunities is straightforward at UWS. Start with the myUWS portal, where the Careers and Employability team posts vacancies regularly. Additionally:

  1. Visit the Student Union: The UWS Students' Union (UWSU) runs a job board and offers advice sessions.
  2. Check Departmental Listings: Many faculties, like the School of Health and Life Sciences, advertise internal roles via email newsletters.
  3. Attend Careers Fairs: Held twice a year, these events connect students with employers seeking part-time staff.
  4. Use External Platforms: Sites like Indeed, StudentJob UK, or Reed.co.uk often list UWS-affiliated positions. Filter for "part-time" and "student" keywords.

To apply, prepare a tailored CV highlighting your studies and any relevant experience. Most applications are online, requiring a cover letter (200-300 words) explaining your interest and availability. Interviews are typically informal, focusing on enthusiasm and reliability. International students should ensure their visa allows work (up to 20 hours per week during term time).

Example Part-Time Job Listings Table

Job Title Location Hours per Week Pay Rate Key Responsibilities
Student Ambassador Paisley Campus 5-10 £10.50/hour Leading tours, event support
Library Assistant Ayr Campus 8-12 £10/hour Book handling, customer service
Catering Assistant Lanarkshire Campus 10-15 £9.90/hour Food prep, serving
Research Support All Campuses 6-8 £12/hour Data entry, analysis

Tips for Success in Part-Time Roles

To thrive in these positions:

  • Manage Your Time: Use tools like the UWS planner app to schedule shifts without clashing with classes.
  • Seek Support: The Employability Service offers CV workshops and mock interviews free of charge.
  • Build Networks: Many roles lead to full-time opportunities post-graduation; express interest in career progression.
  • Stay Compliant: Track earnings for tax purposes and ensure roles meet National Minimum Wage standards (£9.50 for 21+, lower for under 21s).
  • Start Early: Apply in advance, especially for peak periods like freshers' week or summer.

In summary, part-time jobs at UWS are a gateway to practical experience and financial independence. With over 500 student vacancies filled annually, there's something for everyone. Contact the Careers team at careers@uws.ac.uk for personalized guidance and stay updated via the university's social media channels for the latest postings.

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