The Best On-Campus Jobs That Pay Well

Stepping into college life is an exhilarating journey filled with new experiences, opportunities, and responsibilities. Among these responsibilities is financing your education and living expenses without compromising your academic performance. One of the most innovative ways to balance both is by securing an on-campus job that fits your schedule and pays well.

Picture yourself working in an environment that respects your academic commitments, eliminates your daily commute, and allows you to build connections right on your campus. On-campus jobs are a lifeline for many students, offering the financial support they need while also providing valuable experience that can shape their future careers. Whether you aim to cover your textbooks or save for a particular trip, the right on-campus job can be a game-changer.

This blog will explore the top on-campus jobs that help you earn and enrich your college experience. From positions that allow you to dive deeper into your field of study to those that help you develop versatile skills, the right job is waiting for you.

So, what are the best on-campus jobs that pay well?

Let's dive in and discover!

On-campus jobs can be a great way to earn money while studying.

Here are some of the best on-campus jobs that typically pay well:

1. Research Assistant

Role and Responsibilities:

As a research assistant, you will primarily support faculty members' research projects. This can include a combination of tasks, like collecting and analyzing data, conducting experiments, reviewing literature, and preparing research reports. The job's specifics will depend on the field of study and the nature of the research project. For instance, a research assistant in a biology lab might spend time conducting experiments and documenting results. At the same time, one in the humanities might focus more on literature reviews and data analysis.

Benefits:

The research assistant position is particularly advantageous for students financially and academically. Firstly, research assistantships offer competitive pay compared to other student jobs, reflecting the specialized skills and commitment required. Secondly, these positions are often flexible with scheduling, allowing you to balance your research responsibilities with your academic coursework. Moreover, working closely with a professor or research team provides mentorship opportunities and valuable networking connections in your field.

Skill Development:

Being a research assistant allows you to develop highly valued skills in both academic and professional settings. You will gain hands-on experience in research methodologies, data analysis, and technical writing. These skills are crucial for those considering graduate studies and attractive to employers in various industries. Furthermore, the problem-solving and critical thinking abilities you hone as a research assistant can be applied to numerous other contexts, enhancing your overall academic performance and future career prospects.

Professional Growth:

Besides skill development, working as a research assistant can significantly bolster your resume. It demonstrates your ability to manage complex tasks, work independently, and contribute meaningfully to significant projects. If you plan to pursue graduate studies, having research experience can be a decisive factor in your application. Many graduate programs look for applicants who have already demonstrated a commitment to research, and having a publication or research presentation on your resume can set you apart from other candidates. Even if you are heading into the workforce after your undergraduate studies, employers will appreciate the analytical and organizational skills you developed as a research assistant.

2. Teaching Assistant (TA)

Role and Responsibilities:

As a Teaching Assistant (TA), you play a crucial support role in the educational process. Your responsibilities can vary depending on the course and the professor's needs but generally include grading assignments and exams, leading discussion sections or labs, and sometimes even delivering lectures. You may also hold office hours to assist students with course material, clarify concepts, and provide additional support. You might sometimes help with course preparation, including creating and organizing teaching materials or developing course assignments.

Benefits:

The role of a TA often comes with several advantages, including a competitive salary. Because teaching assistants are integral to the functioning of academic courses, they typically receive higher compensation than many other on-campus jobs. Additionally, being a TA gives you a unique possibility to deepen your knowledge of the subject matter. You can enhance your knowledge and academic performance by engaging with the course material more profoundly. Furthermore, this position allows you to develop teaching and communication skills, which are invaluable in educational and professional settings.

Skill Development:

TA work is an excellent way to build highly transferable skills. You will gain experience in instructional techniques, which can improve your ability to explain complex concepts clearly and effectively. This experience also enhances your public speaking and presentation skills, as you may be required to lead discussions or give presentations. Additionally, grading and providing feedback will help you create a keen eye for detail and a deeper understanding of assessment criteria. These skills benefit future academic endeavors and are highly sought after in various professional fields.

Professional Growth:

Being a TA can significantly boost your professional development. The position provides a unique platform for networking with faculty members and peers, which can be advantageous if you pursue advanced studies or a career in academia. Professors and academic mentors can offer valuable advice, letters of recommendation, and insights into your field of study. Moreover, the experience of working closely with students and faculty can enhance your leadership abilities and demonstrate your commitment to education. This can be particularly useful if you want to enter fields that value teaching, training, or mentorship roles, making the TA experience a notable asset on your resume.

3. Library Assistant

Role and Responsibilities:

As a library assistant, your primary duties revolve around maintaining the organization and functionality of the library. This includes managing book check-outs and returns, shelving books, and ensuring all materials are correctly cataloged and accessible to students and faculty. You might also be responsible for assisting patrons in finding resources, answering queries, and providing information about library services. Additionally, library assistants often help maintain the library's cleanliness and orderliness, set up displays, and sometimes support special events or programs hosted by the library.

Benefits:

Working as a library assistant offers several significant benefits. One of the main advantages is the library's peaceful and conducive work environment, which can be an excellent setting for students who appreciate quiet and structured spaces. The job often has flexible hours, making balancing work with academic commitments easier. Furthermore, library positions usually offer a decent hourly wage compared to other on-campus jobs, making it a financially attractive option for students. The role also provides a unique opportunity to become intimately familiar with the library's resources, which can be a tremendous academic asset.

Skill Development:

The position of a library assistant helps you develop a variety of valuable skills. Organizational skills are paramount, as you will manage and categorize large materials. Your attention to detail will be honed through tasks such as cataloging and reshelving books accurately. Additionally, customer service skills are essential, as you will interact with a diverse group of students, faculty, and other library patrons. Communication skills are also sharpened as you assist patrons with inquiries and provide information about library services. These skills are widely transferable and can enhance employability in many fields.

Professional Growth:

Being a library assistant can also contribute significantly to your professional growth. The experience provides a strong foundation in information management and customer service, which are valuable in many career paths. It can also be a stepping stone if you consider a career in library science or information management. Moreover, working in a library can open up networking opportunities with librarians, faculty, and other academic professionals who can offer guidance, mentorship, and references for future opportunities. This job demonstrates your reliability, attention to detail, and commitment to supporting educational environments, which can be advantageous when pursuing future job opportunities or advanced studies.

4. IT Support

Role and Responsibilities:

As an IT support specialist on campus, you play an integral role in assuring the smooth operation of the university's technological infrastructure. Your duties typically include technical assistance to students, faculty, and staff who encounter issues with their computers, software, or other tech-related equipment. This can consist of troubleshooting hardware and software problems, setting up new devices, installing updates, and assuring network connectivity. You may also help manage computer labs, assist with the maintenance of university servers, and support various tech-related projects or events on campus.

Benefits:

One of the most significant benefits of working in IT support is the competitive pay, which tends to be higher than many other student jobs due to the specialized skills required. Additionally, this position often offers flexible hours, allowing you to work around your class schedule. The role also provides a unique opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience in information technology. This experience is invaluable, especially if you plan to pursue a career in IT or a related field. Moreover, the skills you acquire in this role are highly transferable and can be an influential asset in virtually any industry.

Skill Development:

Working in IT support allows you to develop various technical and interpersonal skills. On the technical side, you will become proficient in interpreting and resolving hardware and software issues, managing networks, and understanding multiple operating systems and applications. You will also learn about cybersecurity practices and IT infrastructure management. On the interpersonal side, you will enhance your communication and problem-solving skills, as you will need to explain technical concepts to users with varying levels of tech-savviness. These skills are appreciated in the job market and can significantly enhance employability.

Professional Growth:

Being an IT support specialist can significantly boost your professional development. The role provides a solid foundation for a career in IT, offering practical experience that can be highlighted on your resume. Additionally, it opens up networking opportunities with IT professionals and faculty members who can provide mentorship, advice, and references for future job opportunities. The problem-solving and technical skills you acquire are crucial for IT careers and highly applicable to many other fields. Whether you continue in IT or pursue a different career path, the experience and skills gained from this role will be a strong foundation for your professional growth.

5. Campus Tour Guide

Role and Responsibilities:

As a campus tour guide, you are the face of the university for prospective students and their families. Your primary responsibility is to lead groups on guided campus tours, showcasing essential facilities such as academic buildings, dormitories, libraries, recreational centers, and dining halls. You will provide detailed information about the university’s history, educational programs, student life, and campus culture. Answering questions, sharing personal experiences, and ensuring visitors have a positive and informative experience are critical aspects of your role. Additionally, you may assist in organizing and coordinating tours, ensuring they run smoothly and on schedule.

Benefits:

One of the main benefits of being a campus tour guide is the opportunity to earn an outstanding hourly wage while developing valuable skills. This position is often well-compensated because it requires strong communication abilities and deep university knowledge. The job typically offers flexible hours, which can be scheduled close to your classes and other commitments. Moreover, being a tour guide allows you to interact with a wide range of people, from prospective students and their families to university staff and faculty, expanding your social and professional network.

Skill Development:

Working as a campus tour guide helps you develop various transferable skills. Public speaking is a primary skill that you will refine as you will be presenting to groups regularly. Your communication skills will be improved as you learn to convey information clearly and engagingly. Additionally, you will enhance your interpersonal skills by interacting with diverse groups and handling various questions and situations. Time management and organizational skills are also paramount, as you must ensure tours are conducted efficiently and on schedule. These skills are beneficial in many professional contexts, making this role a valuable addition to your resume.

Professional Growth:

Being a campus tour guide can significantly improve your professional growth. The experience demonstrates your ability to represent an organization, communicate effectively, and manage responsibilities, qualities highly valued by employers. This role can also provide networking opportunities, allowing you to connect with university staff, faculty, and prospective students, which can be advantageous for future job searches or academic pursuits. Furthermore, the leadership and public speaking skills you develop can open doors to careers in marketing, public relations, education, and many other fields. The experience and skills gained as a campus tour guide can be a strong foundation for professional development.

6. Resident Assistant (RA)

Role and Responsibilities:

As a Resident Assistant (RA), you create a supportive and safe living environment for students in dormitories or residence halls. Your primary duties include supervising residents, enforcing university housing policies, and ensuring a respectful and inclusive community. You will also organize and lead various social, educational, and recreational events to foster community building and enhance the residential experience. Additionally, RAs support and guide residents, acting as a resource for academic, personal, and social issues. This role often requires on-call duties, where you respond to emergencies and conflicts, ensuring the well-being of all residents.

Benefits:

One of the most significant benefits of being an RA is the compensation package, which often includes free or heavily discounted housing and sometimes a stipend. This financial relief can significantly reduce the overall cost of your education. Moreover, the role offers flexible hours that can accommodate your academic schedule. Beyond the financial perks, being an RA provides a unique possibility to develop leadership skills, gain practical experience in conflict resolution, and build a close-knit community. The personal satisfaction of positively impacting your peers' college experience is another rewarding aspect of the job.

Skill Development:

Working as an RA allows you to develop various valuable skills in academic and professional settings. Leadership and management skills are at the fore, as you will oversee a group of residents and organize different activities. Your communication skills will also be enhanced, as you must effectively convey information, mediate conflicts, and provide guidance. Additionally, you will develop problem-solving and crisis-management skills as you respond to emergencies and help residents navigate personal challenges. These skills are positively transferable and can be beneficial in many career paths.

Professional Growth:

Being an RA can significantly boost your professional development. Employers in various industries highly seek the leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills you acquire. The experience demonstrates your ability to manage responsibilities, work independently, and support a diverse group of individuals, which can be a solid addition to your resume. Furthermore, the role offers ample networking opportunities with university staff, faculty, and fellow students, which can benefit future job searches or academic pursuits. The experience of being an RA also provides valuable insights into residential life and student affairs, which can be particularly advantageous if you are considering a career in higher education or student services.

7. Fitness Center Attendant

Role and Responsibilities:

As a fitness center attendant, your primary responsibilities involve managing the daily operations of the fitness center to ensure a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for all users. This includes checking in members, maintaining equipment, and ensuring the fitness area is tidy and organized. You may also be responsible for providing information about fitness programs, answering questions about equipment use, and enforcing gym policies to ensure the safety and comfort of all patrons. In some cases, you might also lead fitness classes or provide essential training advice, depending on your qualifications and the needs of the fitness center.

Benefits:

Working as a fitness center attendant offers numerous benefits, starting with the competitive pay often associated with this role. Many fitness centers also provide attendants with free or discounted memberships, allowing you to access the facilities and stay active without additional cost. This role often has flexible hours, making balancing work with your academic schedule easier. Additionally, the job offers a healthy work environment, promoting physical well-being alongside professional responsibilities. Being surrounded by a fitness-focused community can also motivate and encourage maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Skill Development:

The position of a fitness center attendant helps you develop various transferable skills. Consumer service skills are paramount, as you will interact with gym members regularly, addressing their questions and concerns. You will also enhance your communication skills through these interactions and providing instructions or guidance on equipment use. Time management and organizational skills are developed by managing the fitness center’s schedule and ensuring the facility remains clean and orderly. If you lead fitness classes, you will further develop your leadership and public speaking skills. Understanding essential fitness and health principles can also benefit you if you pursue a career in the health, fitness, or wellness industries.

Professional Growth:

Being a fitness center attendant can significantly improve professional development. The experience demonstrates your ability to manage responsibilities, work independently, and maintain a customer-focused attitude, all attractive to employers in various fields. The role also offers networking opportunities with fitness professionals and members, which can be beneficial if you are considering a career in the health and wellness industry. Additionally, the skills you gain in customer service, time management, and communication are highly transferable and can enhance your employability in many different career paths. The job also provides a strong foundation for roles that require interpersonal interaction and organizational abilities.

8. Administrative Assistant

Role and Responsibilities:

As an administrative assistant, you support various university departments or offices. Your primary responsibilities include performing clerical tasks such as answering phones, managing emails, scheduling appointments, and maintaining files and records. You may also assist with organizing meetings, preparing documents, and handling correspondence. In some roles, you might be involved in data entry, creating reports, or supporting administrative projects. Your role is integral in ensuring the smooth operation of the department and facilitating effective communication and organization within the office.

Benefits:

Working as an administrative assistant comes with several advantages. The position generally offers a competitive hourly wage, reflecting the importance and complexity of the tasks involved. Additionally, this role typically provides a stable and structured work environment, which can facilitate focusing on your academic responsibilities. Administrative assistant positions often have flexible hours, allowing you to work around your class schedule. This role also provides valuable experience in office management and administrative procedures, which can be advantageous for future career prospects.

Skill Development:

The role of an administrative assistant helps you create a range of valuable skills. Organizational skills are critical, as you must manage multiple tasks and keep track of various schedules and documents. Your communication skills will be honed through regular interactions with faculty, staff, and students, and you will develop proficiency in using office software and managing correspondence. Time management is another critical skill, as well as prioritizing tasks and handling competing demands efficiently. Additionally, problem-solving skills are often required to address administrative challenges and support office operations effectively.

Professional Growth:

Being an administrative assistant can significantly enhance your professional development. The experience demonstrates your ability to handle various administrative tasks, work efficiently in a structured environment, and manage multiple responsibilities. These skills are highly transferable and respected in many career paths, making the role a solid addition to your resume. The position also provides networking opportunities with university staff and faculty, which can benefit future job searches or academic pursuits. Additionally, the experience can offer insights into office dynamics and administrative processes, which are valuable for careers in management, human resources, and other administrative roles.

9. Peer Tutor

Role and Responsibilities:

As a peer tutor, you provide academic support to fellow students in subjects where you have expertise. Your primary responsibilities include helping students understand course material, clarifying complex concepts, and assisting with homework and exam preparation. Depending on the tutoring program's structure, you might work one-on-one with students or lead small group sessions. Your role involves teaching and guiding students, assessing their progress, and identifying areas where they need additional help. In addition, you may be required to communicate regularly with professors or academic advisors to ensure alignment with course objectives and to report on student progress.

Benefits:

Being a peer tutor offers several significant benefits. One of the primary advantages is the competitive pay, which is often higher than many other on-campus jobs due to the specialized nature of the work. Additionally, tutoring provides flexible work hours that can be adjusted to fit your academic schedule. This role also allows you to deepen your understanding of the subject, as teaching others often reinforces your knowledge. Furthermore, helping peers succeed academically can be personally rewarding and enhance your academic skills and confidence.

Skill Development:

The peer tutor position helps you develop valuable skills. Communication and interpersonal skills are necessary, as you need to explain concepts clearly and adapt your teaching methods to satisfy the needs of different students. Patience and empathy are also essential, as you will work with students who may be struggling and need encouragement and support. Additionally, you will enhance your problem-solving and analytical skills by helping students navigate and understand complex material. These skills benefit your academic growth and are highly transferable to many professional contexts.

Professional Growth:

Working as a peer tutor can significantly contribute to your professional development. The role provides practical experience in teaching and mentoring, which is valuable if you are considering a career in education, counseling, or any field that involves training or mentoring others. The experience demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively, manage and assess student progress, and provide support in a structured setting. Additionally, tutoring can enhance your resume and provide robust references, highlighting your expertise, dedication, and ability to contribute positively to others’ academic success. This experience also offers opportunities to build a professional network with faculty, peers, and academic staff, which can be advantageous for future career or educational opportunities.

10. Student Marketing Assistant

Role and Responsibilities:

As a student marketing assistant, you support the university’s marketing and outreach efforts by assisting with various promotional activities and campaigns. Your primary responsibilities might include managing social media accounts, creating content like blog posts or graphics, and helping organize marketing events or student outreach programs. You may also conduct market research, analyze campaign performance data, and prepare reports on the effectiveness of different marketing strategies. Your role is crucial in helping the university effectively communicate its brand and engage with prospective students, current students, and alumni.

Benefits:

Working as a student marketing assistant comes with several advantages. The role typically offers a competitive hourly wage, reflecting the specialized skills and creativity involved. Additionally, it provides flexible hours that can be scheduled around your academic commitments. The position also allows you to gain practical experience in marketing and communications, highly valued fields in today’s job market. Working in a vibrant environment where you can see the direct effect of your efforts on the university’s outreach and engagement can be both motivating and rewarding.

Skill Development:

The role of a student marketing assistant helps you create a wide range of skills that apply to diverse professional settings. You will enhance your digital marketing skills, including social media management and data analysis. Creativity and strategic thinking are crucial to developing engaging marketing materials and campaigns. Additionally, you will improve your project management skills by coordinating events and managing multiple tasks. Strong communication skills are also developed as you work with stakeholders and contribute to marketing initiatives. These skills are highly transferable and helpful in many marketing, communications, and business careers.

Professional Growth:

Being a student marketing assistant can significantly boost your professional growth. The experience provides you with a strong foundation in marketing and communications, offering practical knowledge that can be highlighted on your resume. The role demonstrates your ability to contribute to a team, manage projects, and execute marketing strategies effectively. Additionally, it provides valuable networking opportunities with marketing professionals and university staff, which can benefit future job searches or internships. The skills and experience gained from this role can open doors to various career possibilities in marketing, public relations, advertising, and related fields, setting you up for success in your professional journey.

Tips for Finding On-Campus Jobs

Check University Job Portals:

• Description: Many universities have centralized job portals or career services websites that list on-campus job openings. These portals typically provide detailed information about each position, including job responsibilities, qualifications, and application instructions. They may also feature part-time jobs, work-study opportunities, and internships. 

• Tip: To make the most of these portals, set up job alerts or notifications if the system allows, so you are informed about new postings as soon as they become available. Regularly check the portal, especially during peak hiring seasons at the start of semesters, to stay ahead of the competition.

Visit Campus Offices and Departments:

• Description: Not all on-campus job opportunities are advertised online. Many positions, particularly those in smaller departments or specialized offices, may only be advertised through internal channels. Visiting these departments in person lets you make a personal impression and inquire directly about job openings. 

• Tip: When visiting, dress professionally and bring a copy of your resume to leave with the office. Politely ask about any available positions and express your interest in working with them. Building rapport with the office staff can also increase your chances of being considered for positions that may not be officially advertised.

Network with Faculty and Staff:

• Description: Networking with faculty members and university staff can be a valuable way to learn about job opportunities. Professors and staff often know of openings or can refer you to hiring departments. They might also provide insights into which roles fit best based on your skills and interests. 

• Tip: Take advantage of academic events like seminars or workshops to meet faculty and staff in a less formal setting. During office hours or meetings, express your interest in gaining work experience and ask if they know of any available positions or could recommend you for any openings.

Utilize Campus Career Services:

• Description: Campus career services are dedicated to helping students find job opportunities, including on-campus positions. They offer resources like job boards, resume workshops, interview preparation, and career counseling. Career advisors can also provide personalized guidance and connect you with potential employers.

• Tip: Make an appointment with a career counselor to discuss your career objectives and job search strategies. Utilize their resources to review and improve your resume and cover letter. Attend any workshops or networking events they organize, as these can provide additional opportunities to connect with potential employers.

Join Student Organizations and Clubs:

• Description: Being involved in student organizations and clubs can provide networking opportunities and make you aware of job openings. Many organizations have positions for members, such as event coordinators or social media managers, and they often prefer to hire from within the group.

• Tip: Participate in meetings and take on organizational leadership roles to increase visibility. Express your interest in finding work opportunities related to the organization’s activities or administrative needs. Your involvement can lead to informal job opportunities and allow you to demonstrate your skills practically.

Attend Campus Job Fairs:

• Description: Campus job fairs are events where various departments and organizations recruit students for part-time jobs, internships, and other opportunities. These events provide a chance to meet recruiters, learn about different positions, and make a strong impression.

• Tip: Prepare for job fairs by researching participating departments or organizations beforehand. Bring numerous copies of your resume and dress professionally. Prepare a concise elevator pitch summarizing your skills and interests, and be ready to request insightful questions about the positions and the organizations.

Monitor Bulletin Boards and Campus Announcements:

• Description: Traditional bulletin boards and campus announcements often feature job postings and information about upcoming opportunities. These are typically found in high-traffic areas such as libraries, student centers, and academic buildings. 

• Tip: Regularly check these bulletin boards and announcements to ensure you don’t miss any opportunities. Take note of deadlines and application procedures. Some positions might be filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so timely action is essential.

Apply Early and Be Proactive:

• Description: On-campus jobs can be competitive, and positions may be filled quickly. Applying early boosts your chances of being considered and allows you to demonstrate your enthusiasm and readiness for the role. Being proactive shows that you are eager and committed to finding work.

• Tip: Keep track of application deadlines and make a checklist of required materials for each job. After submitting your application, follow up with departments or offices to express interest and inquire about the next steps. Demonstrating initiative can set you apart from other candidates.

Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter:

• Description: Customizing your resume and cover letter for each job application helps you highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the position. Tailoring your application materials increases your chances of catching the eye of hiring managers and demonstrates your genuine interest in the specific role. 

• Tip: Carefully read the job description and requirements to identify critical qualifications and responsibilities. Adjust your resume and cover letter to emphasize experiences and skills that align with the job’s needs. Use specific examples to show how your background makes you a strong fit for the position.

Prepare for Interviews:

• Description: If you’re invited for an interview, you must be well-prepared to discuss your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Interview preparation involves understanding the role, practicing common questions, and presenting yourself professionally.

• Tip: Research the department or office where you’re interviewing to understand their needs and how you can contribute. Practice answering typical interview questions and prepare questions to question the interviewer about the role and the team. Dress properly, arrive on time, and bring a copy of your resume and other requested documents. Being well-prepared can assist you make a positive impression and increase your chances of securing the job.

Wrap Up

Selecting the right on-campus job can provide more than just financial benefits; it can also offer valuable work experience, networking opportunities, and a balanced lifestyle. Whether you're looking to work in academic support, administrative roles, or campus facilities, there's a position that aligns with your skills and interests. By taking advantage of these well-paying on-campus jobs, you can lessen the financial burden of college life while gaining experiences that will benefit your future career. So, take the time to explore your options and find the perfect job that fits seamlessly into your academic journey.