Student-friendly part-time jobs
Posted on: Thursday, April 10th, 2025
Finding a part-time job that can fit around your studies can be tough especially if you don’t know where to look. That’s why we recommend you focus your search on the following industries, as they offer easy and flexible work with valuable experience to gain.
1. Retail Jobs
Retail roles include working in shops, supermarkets, convenience stores, or even on-campus outlets. These jobs are often ideal for students who prefer more predictable hours with great staff discounts. However, retail work can become repetitive, particularly if you’re working the till or stocking shelves, but that might be exactly what you need when your student life is hectic.
Skills to gain: customer service, teamwork, handling money, and stock management.
2. Service Industry Jobs
Jobs in cafés, restaurants, or fast-food outlets are another popular choice. These roles range from front-of-house waiting staff to baristas or kitchen crew. They’re known for offering flexibility, which is great if your timetable changes often. Plus, you’ll usually work in a lively, social environment and might even score free or discounted meals during shifts. The downside is that these jobs can be physically demanding with long hours on your feet, and customer service might be challenging when things go wrong.
Skills to gain: communication, time management, and multitasking.
3. Bar Work
Bar jobs, including roles at pubs, student union bars, clubs, or events, typically involve evening and weekend shifts, which often don’t interfere with lectures. These roles can be fun and social, and you might get perks like tips or free entry to gigs and student nights. That said, bar work isn’t for everyone. Shifts can run late into the night, and you’ll sometimes have to deal with difficult or drunk customers.
Skills to gain: excellent people skills, conflict resolution techniques, and the ability to keep calm under pressure.
Despite the challenges that come with working in these industries, these jobs can boost your CV and build soft skills that employers look for. They also help you build confidence and give you a stronger sense of independence. So don’t pass an opportunity because it might be hard, instead, embrace the difficulties and build resilience to prepare for your future career!