Part-time Jobs in the USA for International Students in 2024
Are you an international student studying and looking for part-time jobs in the USA? Balancing work and study can be challenging, but it’s also a great way to support yourself financially, meet new people, and build valuable skills for your future career.
In this guide, we will explore some of the highest-paying Part-time Jobs in the USA for international students available to international students in the USA, along with tips on how to find these opportunities and navigate visa restrictions.
Top Part-time Jobs in the USA
1. Campus ambassador
Campus ambassadors promote the university and show prospective students why they should apply. This job is great for someone who likes interacting with new people and working in a team.
You may also be asked to give guided tours of the university campus on open days, sharing your knowledge and other interesting facts about the university.
Average wage: $12.4 per hour
2. Barista
This can be a great workplace if your university has an on-campus cafe. Not only will you benefit from discounted (or even free!) coffee, but it is also a great place to meet new people.
Your days will be fast-paced and involve making hot and cold drinks, serving customers, and working as a cashier.
Average wage: $12.97 per hour
3. Teaching Assistant
An on-campus teaching assistant is expected to supervise classroom activities and work closely with struggling students.
If you already have some experience in the field, you may be able to work as a higher-level teaching assistant, leading classes on your own and marking students’ work.
Average wage: $13.94 per hour
4. Library assistant
Working as a library assistant is varied, perfect for those hoping to simultaneously study and work in the USA. You will be responsible for shelving books, helping customers find books and other materials, and recommending useful books.
You will also be expected to provide administrative support to the librarians and help organize library events during term time.
Average wage: $14.06 per hour
5. Receptionist
The duties of a university receptionist might include general office support and administration, customer service, and communicating with students and staff via phone and email.
It is a good idea to check with your careers service for where to look on campus for part-time reception work, as larger departments, student unions, and other key buildings may all have openings for receptionists.
Average wage: $15.48 per hour
6. Research study assistant
A research study assistant is one of the most well-paid part-time jobs for international students on campus. The job will depend on which department you work for, but expect to work on various projects, conduct research, maintain lab equipment, and collate results.
To find work as a research study assistant, you must demonstrate excellent organizational skills. Great interpersonal skills and a genuine enthusiasm for the research are also beneficial.
Average wage: $16.14
7. Department assistant
A department assistant is one of the best on-campus jobs in the USA for international students, and you will gain lots of transferable skills for your CV.
You will be responsible for providing administrative and secretarial support for a department, handling departmental matters, and supporting specific teams or projects.
To successfully apply for a department assistant job, you must be computer literate and demonstrate good teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Average wage: $16.44
8. Food runner or catering assistant
Alternatively, suppose your university has cafes, restaurants, or other dining facilities on-site that offer food to eat. In that case, you may be able to find work as a front-of-house assistant or runner.
A job in hospitality is one of the most flexible positions in terms of hours worked, which makes it ideal for international students studying and working in the USA.
Average wage: $16.74 per hour
9. Sales assistant
If your university has a mini supermarket or corner shop on campus, this is another great way to earn money while you study.
In addition, many universities also have shops selling branded clothing and merchandise, another good source of part-time work for an international student.
Average wage: $17.35 per hour
10. Tutor or peer mentor
If you don’t fancy becoming a teaching assistant but would like to do something similar, tutoring or peer mentoring is a great job for international students working in the USA.
The role involves helping fellow students with their course content, reading, or assignments as needed. This job is particularly well-suited to international students, who can often offer mentees a different perspective or way of learning.
Average wage: $23.94 per hour
We all know the cost of studying at university between course fees, rent, and other living costs. Studying as an international student in the USA is no different. So, while big decisions like which university to choose and what classes to take should be top priorities when planning to study abroad, there should be a plan for how to finance your trip.
Working part-time can not only help solve this problem, but it’s also a great way of meeting new people and developing key skills to enhance your CV. But before you start applying, international students in the USA should be aware of some restrictions on part-time jobs.
Part-time jobs for college students: What can you earn?
First things first, how much money can you expect to make? The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, but each state sets its wage laws. So, while the minimum wage can be as high as $15 per hour in some states, it can be as low as $7.25 in others.
This means that where you choose to study will greatly impact your earnings. However, depending on your level of relevant working experience, you can earn between $7.25 and $10 per hour at least, with more highly skilled jobs paying upwards of $10.
A perk of on-campus jobs is that they tend to pay in line and are often higher than the minimum wage.
What limitations are there for international students?
While you can study and work in the USA simultaneously, there are some visa limitations to remember. Breaking the rules can put your student status at risk and even result in deportation.
An F1 visa is issued to any international student studying an academic or English Language program at a US college or university. You can find out more about US Student visas here. Still, the important thing to know regarding finding work is that students with F1 visas can generally only work on-campus at their university for a maximum of 20 hours a week during term time.
During holiday periods, this goes up to 40 hours a week. There are some exceptions to the on-campus rule, including if you suffer from “severe economic hardship.” You should speak to your designated school official (DSO), who can explain your employment options.
With that in mind, here are 10 of the highest-paying on-campus jobs for international students working in the USA.
Top 10 High-Paying Part-Time Jobs for International Students in the USA
S/No | Highest Paying Part-Time Jobs | Average Wages per Hour |
---|---|---|
1 | Campus Ambassador | $12.4 |
2 | Barista | $12.97 |
3 | Teaching Assistant | $13.94 |
4 | Library Assistant | $14.06 |
5 | Receptionist | $15.48 |
6 | Research Study Assistant | $16.19 |
7 | Department Assistant | $16.44 |
8 | Food Runner or Catering Assistant | $16.74 |
9 | Sales Assistant | $17.35 |
10 | Tutor or Peer Mentor | $23.94 |
Finding Well-Paid Part-Time Jobs in the USA as an International Student
Finding a part-time job as an international student in the USA can be easier said than done. Still, luckily, most universities offer a wide range of on-campus opportunities, including internships and part-time work.
You can find jobs on your university’s website or contact the student union or careers service for help. It’s also worth joining any existing student groups on Facebook, as opportunities are often posted there.
Conclusion on Part-time Jobs in the USA for International Students in 2024
Navigating the landscape of part-time jobs in the USA as an international student in 2024 can be challenging and rewarding. With opportunities ranging from campus ambassador to tutor, there are various roles that not only offer competitive wages but also enhance your academic and professional experience.
Understanding visa regulations and leveraging university resources is crucial for a smooth and successful job search. By balancing work with your studies, you can gain financial independence, expand your social network, and develop valuable skills that will benefit you long after graduation. So, take the plunge, explore your options, and make the most of your time studying in the USA.
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