The Best Jobs for College Students

If you’re in college, you could probably use some extra money without a stressful full-time commitment. The best jobs for college students are suited for a busy college schedule.

Working while in college is a great way to put money toward your tuition and school expenses, or save some cash to spend on weekends. Maintaining a job throughout school will also help you prepare for your career after graduation. 

As a student, schoolwork should be your top priority, but it is possible to balance it along with a job. You should be looking for a job that offers flexible hours, high pay, and great learning experiences. Consider these factors and see our below list of the best jobs for college students.

What to Consider While Job Hunting

There are a few key factors to think about when on the job search as a college student. This might include the stress level of the job, possible skill development, and of course, flexibility. 

It is essential to consider potential stress when researching the best jobs for college students. You want to make sure the job will not interfere with your studies, so you must look for a relaxed workplace and job duties. 

Ideally, the job will not require you to commit to long hours or require work outside of the job. A part-time job is ideal, but if you have a flexible class schedule, you may be able to work full time.

It is also important to consider if a potential job will help you develop the skills you will use after you graduate. If possible, search for a position that will build up your skillset and give you experience for your future career. 

This can give you an advantage over other candidates when applying for jobs post-graduation. For example, if you are attending school for apparel merchandising, you may want to look for a job in retail.

A flexible work schedule is critical during your college years. It may be challenging to find a job that will work around your class and homework hours, but it is a key part of ensuring you will still be able to focus on your coursework.

What Are the Best Jobs for College Students?

Many jobs are well-suited for college students. The positions below offer flexibility, low stress, and opportunities for skill development. 

Barista 

There are likely many job openings for baristas right on your college campus. Tasks include greeting customers, taking orders, working the cash register system, and of course, preparing coffee and tea orders. Additional duties can include cleaning customer seating areas, washing dishes, and organizing equipment. 

The national average salary for a barista is $10.88 an hour, usually with free coffee. 

Customer Service Representative 

Online jobs are ideal for college students as they take away the trouble of having to travel to work. Many customer service representative jobs are now carried out online. Job duties include handling customer questions or concerns by email, messenger, phone, or sometimes in person.

Typically, these representatives offer advice on products or services offered by a company. Depending on the industry, the representative may also help facilitate purchase and return transactions. The national average salary for this position is $12.68 per hour.

Line Cook  

Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at your favorite restaurant? In any commercial kitchen, there are likely to be several line cooks reporting to the main chef. Typically, a line cook washes and prepares vegetables and finalizes dishes before they are taken to the customer. 

Most busy kitchens will have multiple line cooks, each with their own specific station. The average salary for a line cook is $12.32 per hour.

Restaurant Server 

A restaurant server will greet customers, set tables, take food and drink orders, and serve food. Servers also help clear tables and issue checks. 

The average salary for a restaurant server is $10.17 per hour, but it also comes with tips. Additionally, the busy night and weekend shifts are a massive perk for college students.

Tutor 

Put your studies to the test by tutoring. A tutor will work one-on-one with a student, teaching lessons, assisting with homework, and preparing for exams. As a tutor, you may be required to travel to a student’s home, the library, or another location to meet with your pupil. The national average salary for this job is $24.11. 

Cashier 

Cashiers are essential in any type of store. Cashier’s duties include ringing up items, taking a customer’s payment, and providing change and a receipt. A cashier will also handle refunds, store credit, and counting money in the cash register. 

As a cashier, you might find work at a bookstore, boutique, retailer, campus dining hall, or grocery store. The national average salary for a cashier is $11.27 per hour, and the employee discount never hurts either. 

Swim Instructor 

Dive into part-time work head-first as a swim instructor. As a swim instructor, you will teach people how to swim and feel comfortable in the water through demonstrations and hands-on training. Swim instructors have the option of teaching either classes or private lessons. The national average salary is $17.06 per hour.

Nanny 

Like a babysitter but more official, a nanny provides care to a client’s child including baths, meals, and organizing playtime and transportation. The national average annual salary for a nanny is $15.27 per hour.

Campus Library Attendant 

Campus library clerk jobs have many advantages, primarily that you can stay on campus. Job duties include sorting and shelving books and other print resources. They will also need to help students search for books and assist in checking out books or other resources. The national average salary for this position is $12.23 per hour.

Front Desk Receptionist 

A receptionist is in charge of greeting customers, answering questions, and referring guests to the right department. Other duties include answering phone calls and checking in visitors by issuing necessary security badges. The average salary for a receptionist is $12.32 per hour.

Administrative Assistant 

As an administrative assistant, you will perform clerical and administrative tasks like answering phones, scheduling meetings, and maintaining databases.

Administrative assistants can find work in many industries, so you can choose one that is related to your future career plans. For example, if you are obtaining a hospitality degree, then a position at a spa or hotel might make the most sense. 

Bank Teller 

Make money and work with it, too, as a bank teller. Bank tellers are in charge of processing customer transactions by cashing checks, depositing money, and other miscellaneous services. 

Dog Walker

Taking a dog for a walk just got even more rewarding. As a dog walker, you will never be overworked because you can set your own schedule, compensation, and preferred dog size. Sites such as Rover.com and Petsitter.com can help you find furry clients. 

Brand Ambassador 

If you have a social media presence, you are already familiar with brand ambassadors, or social media influencers. These individuals act as the face of a company and promote its mission, brand, and products. 

As a brand ambassador, you can choose which organizations you identify with and would like to promote. You will also be able to set your own schedule and pay requirements. Most of your work will be conducted entirely online, making this a great job for your college years. 

Conclusion: Take Advantage of Flexible Schedules

No matter which part-time position you apply for, make sure your resume and cover letter reflect all of your skills. Additionally, ensure that the employer knows your schedule and that you are a full-time college student. Most employers will be accommodating.

Remember not to let your new job interfere with your grades and education. Working online, part-time, or in a job where you can set your own schedule, will be the best option for maintaining focus on your degree.