Student Jobs Australia: Working While Studying
Getting a degree is an expensive undertaking these days. With tuition fees costing between $20,000 – $37,000 per year and the cost of living on top of that, it’s no wonder students are leaving university saddled with close to $80,000 of student debt.
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One way students can reduce the burden is to get a casual or part-time job. Traditionally, this meant working in a bar or restaurant, but the world of work has changed significantly over the past decade. Today, there are several exciting working opportunities that are perfect for students looking to earn a little extra money.
In this article, we are going to highlight the types of jobs available and the skills needed to carry them out. There is something in this list for everyone, with some jobs even offering opportunities to gain experience in your chosen field. So if you don’t want to work in a bar, don’t worry, there is something here for you.
We’ve split this article into two sections. The first section highlights the different categories of jobs available, part-time jobs, summer jobs, internships, etc. The second section highlights the types of roles you can expect to find and what skills are needed to carry them out.
So are you ready to earn a little extra money?
Job types
Let’s start by looking at the types of jobs available. When looking for casual work, there are several options to choose from. You should select the option that best fits in around your studies. For example, if you feel like a part-time job will compromise your studies too much then look for weekend work or a summer job instead.
Part-time jobs
Part-time jobs are a great way to earn a little extra money. There are always plenty of part-time jobs available in most major cities in Australia. Part-time roles are available in various industries including hospitality, retail, customer service, sales and teaching.
The best thing about part-time work is you can choose a role which fits around your studies. So if you have a few spare hours in the evening, why not put that time to good use earning some extra money?
Summer jobs
Summer jobs are perfect for students with intensive studies who may not have enough spare time to commit to a part-time job. Summer jobs are available throughout Australia but the types of roles are limited compared to other job types.
Summer jobs are mostly centred around events, hospitality and promotions. So this type of job is perfect for outgoing personality types. One of the best things about this type of work is that it allows you to meet new people and develop networking skills which will serve you well throughout your career.
Internships
Paid internships are another option to earn a little extra money. Some degree courses include internships as part of the curriculum, but even if yours doesn’t, there is nothing to stop you from seeking an internship at a company in your chosen field.
The best thing about internships is that they give you the chance to get relevant industry experience. This will help you land a job in your chosen field when the time comes. And if you do a good job as an intern, you may even get a job offer after graduation.
Work placement
Work placements are usually completed as part of a degree. They are a great opportunity for you to apply the skills and knowledge you have learned in the classroom. Not all work placements, particularly shorter placements, are paid, however, it will depend on the industry you work in. Most teaching work placements are not paid, for example.
Work placements are usually completed during term time and are compulsory for some degrees. Work placements vary from a few weeks to a full year depending on your course. If a 12-month placement is required, it will take place between the second and final year of study. Most work placements are assessed and eligible for academic credit.
Weekend jobs
Weekend jobs are perfect for students who don’t have enough spare time during the week due to study commitments. Weekend work is usually found in the retail, hospitality and events sectors.
This type of work is a great way to meet new people and can lead to further employment opportunities. Weekend work is also a good way of gaining work experience, which will prove useful when you seek full-time employment. Having work experience will show any potential employer that you are a self-starting and enthusiastic individual.
Evening jobs
Evening jobs are similar to part-time and weekend jobs but shifts are restricted to the evenings. This type of work is usually found in the hospitality, customer service and events sectors. But other types of roles, such as healthcare and IT, may be available depending on where you live.
Evening jobs are a great way of earning extra money in your spare time. You don’t have to commit to working every evening so you can easily fit this type of job around your studies. You may also get the opportunity to work day shifts during the summer, which will give you a little spare money to enjoy a well-earned break before the term starts again.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships provide the opportunity to earn an income while learning new skills and undertaking professional qualifications. Apprenticeships are open to any age group and are available in more than 500 careers and occupations.
Apprenticeships can be undertaken full-time or part-time as part of a study program. They are a great way of learning vocational skills without burdening yourself with thousands of dollars of student debt. Apprentices are entitled to the same working rights as other employees and gain relevant qualifications which are recognised around the world.
Job roles
Now you know the different types of jobs you can apply for, what type of roles can you expect to find?
In this section, we’ll look at various job roles which span the different job types. Some of these roles will require expertise and are only suitable for students seeking a work placement, apprenticeship or internship, while others require no experience and are suitable for anyone.
Customer service jobs
Customer service roles are a great introduction to work for students who like dealing with people. These types of roles usually work on shift patterns with evening shifts popular with most students. The bonus of working evenings is that they pay more than day shifts. Such roles are usually restricted to call centres in a wide variety of industries, including retail, insurance and healthcare.
Design jobs
Many design agencies offer paid internships to help young designers gain relevant work experience. This type of role will require basic design knowledge and you will be expected to show a portfolio of your work. Agencies of all sizes offer internships, but competition for jobs at larger agencies can be fierce. Don’t discount smaller agencies though, these can often be a better bet than a big agency because you will be much more actively involved in client projects.
Events jobs
Events offer a great opportunity for outgoing individuals. This type of work is usually short term, a few days maximum, but the pay is good and you will get the chance to meet lots of interesting people. The types of roles available are also diverse. You could work in hospitality, catering or as a brand representative. No special skills are required for these roles, but you will need to be outgoing and enjoy meeting people.
Promotion jobs
If you’re enthusiastic, outgoing and enjoy meeting people, promotional work could be for you. With this role, you will be representing and promoting brands at various events and exhibitions around the country. Each role usually only lasts a few days and you will be paid for your time and expenses.
Sport jobs
If you are fit and enjoy the outdoors, you are well suited to the many part-time sports jobs available. These types of roles can vary, with jobs available at local sports clubs, fitness centres and retail outlets across the country. You could serve as a lifeguard at the local swimming pool, offer fitness training at the gym or coach the local football team after school. Whichever role you take, these jobs are rewarding and offer great opportunities for the right individuals.
Teaching jobs
There are many exciting opportunities for teachers across Australia. If you are studying for a teaching degree, many schools offer work placement schemes. If you have a special skill such as art, you will also be able to find part-time teaching roles at one of the many private or government-funded colleges around the country.
Conclusion
Australia is an awesome place to study. Check out our list of the 10 Best Places to Study in Australia
With so many opportunities available for students to find work in Australia, there is no need to restrict yourself to bar or hospitality work. There are plenty of rewarding roles which will help you develop the life skills you need to prosper as you forge a career of your own after graduation. Check out our latest casual employment opportunities here.