8/10/25

So You Need a Part-Time Gig at UVA? Here’s the Real Deal on Making Money in Charlottesville

Hey there, future & current Wahoos! Let's talk about something that's probably on your mind almost as much as your next econ midterm or where to get the best coffee on the Corner: making some extra cash while you're at the University of Virginia. Honestly, having a part-time job at UVA is pretty much a rite of passage for a lot of us. Whether you're trying to cover your rent, build up your resume, or just have some extra spending money for those late-night pizza cravings, a gig on the side can be a game-changer.
But here’s the thing, finding a job that fits with your crazy class schedule, doesn't drain your soul, & actually pays decently can feel like a HUGE task. Where do you even start? On-Grounds or off? What's this "Federal Work-Study" thing all about? And how in the world are you supposed to balance a job with, you know, actually being a student at one of the best universities in the country?
Don't sweat it. I've been there, done that, & I'm here to give you the inside scoop. Think of me as your friendly upperclassman who has already navigated the maze of student employment in Charlottesville. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from the best on-Grounds gigs to the hidden gems in the city, & all the resources UVA has to offer. By the end of this, you'll be ready to find a great part-time job that works for YOU.

On-Grounds Gigs: The Classic UVA Student Hustle

Working on-Grounds is a SUPER popular option, & for good reason. The convenience is unbeatable – you can literally roll out of class & walk to your job. Plus, your bosses are usually pretty understanding about your student schedule, especially around exam time. According to UVA's own HR department, something like 5,000 students work in over 7,000 positions on-Grounds each year. That’s a TON of opportunities right at your fingertips.

Where to Look & What You'll Find

So, where are all these magical on-Grounds jobs? They're everywhere, from the libraries to the dining halls to the athletic department. Here are some of the most common types of on-Grounds jobs you'll see posted:
  • Retail & Hospitality: This is a big one. The UVA Bookstore is always looking for students who bleed orange & blue to help with retail, merchandising, & even technology. They're a non-profit, so all their proceeds go back to the university, which is pretty cool. You'll also find a ton of jobs at the various dining locations on-Grounds, like being a barista at Starbucks in Newcomb Hall or working at one of the cafes. These jobs are great for developing customer service skills & usually have flexible hours.
  • Administrative & Office Work: Almost every department at UVA needs student assistants. You could be a Career Center Event Assistant, helping to set up job fairs & workshops. Or you could work as an office assistant in a specific academic department, answering phones, making copies, & getting a behind-the-scenes look at how the university runs. These jobs are awesome for building professional skills & making connections with faculty & staff.
  • Research & Academic Roles: If you're looking for something more related to your major, research assistant positions are a fantastic option. You'll get to work closely with a professor on their research, gaining invaluable experience that looks amazing on a resume, especially if you're thinking about grad school. You might also find jobs as a grader or a course assistant for a class you've already aced.
  • Libraries & IT: The UVA library system is HUGE, & they're always hiring students for various roles. You could be a circulation assistant at Clemons Library, helping students check out books & equipment. Or if you're tech-savvy, you could work as a media studio technology consultant. These jobs are often quieter & can sometimes even give you a chance to get some of your own studying done during downtime.
  • Athletics & Recreation: If you're a sports fan, working for UVA Athletics could be a dream job. You could be an athletic ticket office student assistant, helping fans get their tickets for the big game. Or you could work at one of the university's recreation centers. These jobs are high-energy & a lot of fun.

The Lowdown on Federal Work-Study

You've probably heard the term "Federal Work-Study" (FWS) thrown around. So, what is it? Basically, it's a form of financial aid that you earn through a part-time job. If you're eligible for FWS (you'll see it in your financial aid package in SIS), it opens up a whole new set of job opportunities. Many on-Grounds departments have positions specifically for FWS students. The Undergraduate Community Employment Partnership (UCEP) program even connects FWS students with local non-profits. It's a great way to get a meaningful job & earn money to help pay for your education.

Venturing Off-Grounds: Exploring Charlottesville's Job Market

While on-Grounds jobs are super convenient, don't sleep on the off-Grounds job market in Charlottesville. The city is full of businesses that love hiring UVA students. You'll often find that off-Grounds jobs pay a little better, & they give you a chance to get out of the "UVA bubble" & explore the city.

Hotspots for Student Jobs

So where should you look for off-campus jobs? Here are some of the most popular options for students:
  • The Corner & Downtown Mall: These are the epicenters of student life off-Grounds, & they're packed with restaurants, cafes, & retail shops that are almost always hiring. Whether you want to be a server, a barista, a bartender, or a retail associate, you'll find a ton of opportunities in these areas.
  • Barracks Road Shopping Center: A little further from Grounds, but still easily accessible, Barracks Road has a mix of larger chain stores & local boutiques. If you have a car or are willing to take the bus, it's a great place to look for retail & food service jobs.
  • Tutoring & Babysitting: If you're good with kids or a pro in a particular subject, tutoring & babysitting are super flexible ways to make money. You can often set your own hours & rates, & there's always a demand for reliable students.
  • Brand Ambassador & Promotional Work: You'll often see companies looking for student brand ambassadors to promote their products or services on campus. This can be a fun way to make some extra cash & get some marketing experience.
  • Delivery & Rideshare: If you have a car, working for a food delivery service or a rideshare company is another super flexible option. You can work whenever you have free time, which is perfect for a busy student schedule.

The Commuting Conundrum

One of the biggest things to consider with an off-Grounds job is the commute. If you don't have a car, you'll need to factor in bus schedules or walking time. If you do have a car, parking can be a real headache, especially around the Corner & the Downtown Mall. This is where a service like Prked can be a lifesaver. Prked connects you with homeowners who are renting out their driveways & garages for parking. It's a pretty cool way to find a convenient & affordable parking spot near your job, so you don't have to stress about circling the block looking for a space.
And hey, speaking of extra space, if you're living in a cramped dorm or apartment, you might find yourself needing a place to store your stuff, especially over the summer. Prked can help with that too. You can rent someone's garage, attic, or basement for storage, which is often way cheaper & more convenient than a traditional storage unit.

UVA's Secret Weapon: The Career Center & Other Resources

Here’s a HUGE tip that a lot of students don't take full advantage of: UVA has some AMAZING resources to help you find a job. Seriously, these people are pros, & they're there to help YOU.
  • The UVA Career Center: This should be your first stop. Located in Bryant Hall at Scott Stadium, the Career Center is your one-stop-shop for all things career-related. They can help you with your resume, practice your interview skills, & connect you with employers. They're a seriously underutilized resource, so make sure you pay them a visit.
  • Handshake: This is UVA's official online job board. All on-Grounds jobs, Federal Work-Study positions, & a ton of off-Grounds jobs & internships are posted on Handshake. You can set up a profile, upload your resume, & apply for jobs directly through the platform. If you're serious about finding a job, you need to be on Handshake.
  • Departmental Websites: Don't forget to check the websites of specific departments you're interested in working for. The UVA Bookstore, UVA Athletics, & UVA Dining (Aramark) all have their own employment pages with information about available positions.

The Balancing Act: How to Work & Still Have a Life

Okay, so you found a job. Awesome! Now comes the tricky part: balancing it with your classes, clubs, social life, & maybe even a little bit of sleep. It's not easy, but it's DEFINITELY doable. Here are some tips from students who have been there:
  • Be Realistic About Your Hours: Don't overcommit yourself. Most on-Grounds jobs have a limit of 20 hours per week during the semester, & that's a good rule of thumb to follow for any job. Remember, you're a student first.
  • Master Your Calendar: Get a planner or use a digital calendar & block out EVERYTHING – your classes, your work shifts, your study time, & even your social plans. Seeing it all laid out will help you stay organized & avoid scheduling conflicts.
  • Communicate with Your Employer: Be upfront with your boss about your academic commitments. Most employers who hire students are understanding, but you need to give them a heads-up if you have a big exam coming up or need to adjust your schedule.
  • Don't Be Afraid to Say No: It can be tempting to pick up extra shifts for the extra cash, but know your limits. It's better to work fewer hours & do well in your classes than to burn yourself out.
  • Take Care of Yourself: Seriously, don't forget to eat, sleep, & exercise. Juggling work & school can be stressful, & you need to prioritize your physical & mental health.

Internships: The Next Level of Student Employment

While we're talking about jobs, we have to mention internships. Internships are a fantastic way to get real-world experience in your field of study, & they look incredible on a resume. The UVA Career Center has a ton of resources to help you find internships, including an Internship Placement Program. Even if you have a part-time job, it's worth looking into an internship, especially during the summer.

The Takeaway

Finding a part-time job as a UVA student is totally achievable. There are a TON of opportunities both on & off-Grounds, & the university provides some incredible resources to help you in your search. The key is to be proactive, get organized, & find a job that fits with your life as a student.
So, get your resume ready, start browsing Handshake, & don't be afraid to put yourself out there. A part-time job can be more than just a paycheck – it can be a valuable part of your college experience, helping you build skills, make connections, & become a more well-rounded person.
Hope this was helpful, & good luck with your job hunt! Let me know what you think in the comments.
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