Part-time work often falls into two categories: developing skills and exploring careers, or helping us cover the day-to-day costs of life. Ideally, we can find work that satisfies both criteria but working purely to earn an income is a normal part of our reality.
Create a plan
Consider these questions.
- What companies are you applying to?
- What skills are they searching for in a candidate?
- How much time will you dedicate each day or week?
- Where can you search beyond general job posting websites? How can you be creative with your search?
Use effective techniques
- Connect with us for a resume critique to ensure you’re showcasing your skills and experience in a way that will appeal to employers. Book an appointment on OSCARplusmcmaster.ca, or drop-in on Tuesday and Thursday from 1:30pm to 4:00pm in Gilmour Hall room 110.
- Attend webinars to learn more tips and get answers to your questions. Topics include resumes, LinkedIn, networking, interviews and job searching. Register on OSCARplus (Student Success Centre > Events).
- Talk to people. You never know who can lead you to your next opportunity. Telling your friends, family, professors, teaching assistants and peers what you’re searching for may lead to ideas and referrals.
Use many methods
- Check job posting websites. (But don’t stop there!)
- Go to company websites for postings and do your research. Tailor your application before you apply.
- Use social media platforms to connect with organizations, people and opportunities.
- LinkedIn can be a powerful professional tool — search McMaster University alumni to find out what they do now.
- Visit businesses in your neighbourhood or along transit lines and inquire in person if possible
Final tips
- Cast your job search net as widely as possible. Don’t just apply for your ideal job and hope you get it. Have a back-up plan.
- Apply, apply, apply! It can take up to (or more than) 50 applications to secure an interview!
- Remember, you can build skills, experience and professional networks in any job. It’s what you make of your experience, not what your experience makes you.
Where to search on campus
- This program offers on-campus opportunities for currently registered students who demonstrate financial need.
- Part-time jobs are posted in early August and sporadically throughout the school year; summer jobs are posted in early March.
- International students, please check International Student Work Opportunity (ISWO) eligibility.
- Find paid and volunteer positions.
David Braley Athletic Centre (DBAC)
- You can find opportunities for service desk, business office, the Pulse, strength and conditioning and intramural support.
- You can find opportunities to work at food service stations and catering services.
Where to search in the community
OSCARplus and other job posting websites
- OSCARplus: Check the job postings regularly — we post local, national and international opportunities daily.
- Indeed
- Eluta: Search by location (include job title if you are looking for something specific) and refine search by “part-time”
- Government of Canada Job Bank
- Charity Village
- Workforce Planning Ontario
Virtual and remote work
Here are some websites that are dedicated to virtual work opportunities.
Note: You can usually filter by “remote” on typical job websites like Indeed.
Hamilton community*
- Retail positions: Check stores in Westdale, Dundurn Plaza, University Plaza, Jackson Square, Ancaster Meadowlands and Limeridge Mall.
- Check company websites for job postings (especially department stores or chains).
- Workforce Planning Hamilton
Note: If you’re not currently in Hamilton, consider similar options in your area.
Immediate Work
If you find yourself in a position where you need immediate work to cover your expenses, you can try looking at temporary work through some of the agencies below. Try to call or visit their physical location if it is convenient. They may have opportunities immediately available however these are not always a guarantee
If you have any questions about recruitment agencies and their practices please contact a Career Advisor through the Student Success Centre.