University of Manchester Careers Blog

Written by Anna Lomas, Careers Manager (Operations, Graduate & Student Development) and Careers Lead for Welcome, Induction and Transition

With everything getting more expensive, we know our next intake of students are more interested than ever in exploring part-time job options whilst they study. The good news is that with the University of Manchester being such a large institution at the heart of such a vibrant city, there are lots of opportunities to do this.

As soon as you join the University, you will be able to access CareerConnect from the Careers Service, where new part-time vacancies are posted daily. Many roles will be based in and around the city, but some may even be completed remotely, opening up more possibilities. The Students’ Union also runs a Jobshop, who frequently advertise part-time positions.

Many students are keen to find on campus, part-time opportunities. Although there aren’t as many as off campus vacancies, there are still many different roles including supporting our catering outlets, working in the Students’ Union, Library or Halls of Residence, events staff, campus ambassador positions and even supporting academic and other University departments. These vacancies will usually be posted on CareerConnect and the Students’ Union Jobshop. We would also encourage you to ask University staff in any area you’d be interested in working, as there may be roles that aren’t advertised.

If you’re hoping to secure something before you start your studies, it might seem obvious, but focussing on the shops, bars and restaurants located close to Halls/Fallowfield or the University/City Centre itself is a safe bet. Take a look on Google Maps and you’ll find there are lots nearby! They might be advertising positions in advance of new students arriving but if not, try contacting them directly to let them know you are looking for part-time work. We advise that students only commit to working a maximum of 15 hours a week whilst you’re studying.

One thing you can do now to get yourself ready is prepare your CV.  You may be asked to provide one for some part-time roles. On the Careers Service website you’ll find pages of advice about CVs, together with examples and templates which you can simply download and use. You will need to be a registered student to access some of the CV resources listed, but there is plenty of help and information you can access now too.

Don’t worry if there’s too much to think about now, the Careers Service will be around during Welcome Week to provide more help with finding part-time work. In fact, from the day you arrive we’ll be here to help you make the most of your time at Manchester, gain skills and work experience, explore all the opportunities open to you as a student at the University of Manchester and start to imagine your future. We look forward to meeting you!