What are some 15 new good jobs for college students in Chicago? Balancing work and studies is a practical approach for college students to cover tuition and living expenses while gaining valuable professional experience.
While academics should remain a priority, there is a range of job opportunities available to college students that offer flexible hours and pay rates exceeding the federal minimum wage.
By pursuing part-time employment, students can alleviate financial burdens while also kickstarting their career development.
Good Jobs For College Students in Chicago
Here are 15 job examples across various industries that can provide valuable experience while you pursue your college education:
1. Administrative Assistant
Administrative assistants play a crucial role in supporting senior employees by managing administrative tasks. These responsibilities include documenting meeting minutes, organizing files and records, handling correspondence, and facilitating internal communication among staff members.
Their contributions help ensure smooth operations within the organization. On average, administrative assistants earn a salary of $14.84 per hour nationwide.
2. Receptionist
A receptionist plays a crucial role in providing excellent customer service by warmly welcoming and guiding visitors, addressing their inquiries, and effectively directing them to the appropriate personnel.
They efficiently handle incoming phone calls and contribute to the smooth functioning of the office through various administrative tasks, including organizing files and maintaining a well-structured workspace. Additionally, receptionists are responsible for ensuring the security of the premises by screening visitors and issuing necessary security badges.
Receptionists earn an average salary of $12.32 per hour nationwide.
3. Parking Attendant
A parking attendant plays a vital role in delivering exceptional customer service by warmly welcoming and assisting customers as they arrive at a parking lot, parking deck, or valet stand.
Their responsibilities encompass efficiently parking vehicles for customers or providing clear instructions on parking procedures. Moreover, parking attendants may also be entrusted with the task of locating and retrieving vehicles, ensuring the cleanliness and maintenance of parking areas, and effectively directing the flow of traffic in and out of the parking facility.
Parking attendants earn an average salary of $11.90 per hour nationwide.
4. Senior Caregiver
A senior caregiver assumes a crucial role in providing compassionate and dedicated care to individuals within the comfort of their own homes. Their duties encompass a wide range of responsibilities, including assisting with essential daily activities like bathing, feeding, grooming, and medication management.
Furthermore, senior caregivers may also undertake light housekeeping tasks to ensure a clean and organized living environment for their clients. Additionally, they may provide transportation services, accompany clients to medical appointments, and ensure their safe and timely arrival.
In addition to addressing physical needs, senior caregivers also offer valuable companionship, fostering emotional well-being and creating a supportive and nurturing environment.
Senior Caregivers earn an average salary of $12.42 per hour nationwide.
5. Lifeguards
Lifeguards play a critical role in maintaining the safety and well-being of individuals in both public and private pool areas. Their primary responsibility involves vigilant surveillance to swiftly identify and respond to any potential hazards or emergencies.
Lifeguards diligently enforce safety regulations, ensuring that all visitors adhere to the prescribed rules and guidelines. In the event of an emergency, they possess the necessary skills, including CPR and first aid, to provide immediate and life-saving care.
By remaining alert and attentive, lifeguards create a secure environment, allowing individuals to enjoy their aquatic activities with peace of mind.
Lifeguards earn an average salary of $11.90 per hour nationwide.
6. Camp Counsellors
A camp counselor, whether at a summer camp or an after-school program, assumes the important role of orchestrating engaging and enriching experiences for children. They actively plan, develop, and lead a variety of programs, fostering opportunities for learning and growth.
Camp counselors are dedicated to helping children acquire new skills while prioritizing their overall well-being and safety. By nurturing a supportive and inclusive environment, camp counselors create a space where children can thrive, explore their potential, and create lasting memories.
Camp Counsellors earn an average salary of $10.92 per hour nationwide.
7. Restaurants Hosts and Hostesses
Hosts and hostesses play a pivotal role in creating a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience for patrons. Their responsibilities begin with a warm greeting at the door, guiding diners to their designated tables, and presenting menus while enthusiastically sharing daily specials.
They possess extensive knowledge of the menu and are ready to answer any inquiries guests may have. Additionally, hosts and hostesses efficiently manage table sections and the waitlist, ensuring a smooth flow of seating.
They communicate effectively with servers, promptly notifying them when a new table becomes available. By skillfully orchestrating the dining area, hosts and hostesses contribute to the overall satisfaction of guests and the seamless operation of the establishment.
Restaurant Hosts and Hostesses earn an average salary of $11.06 per hour nationwide.
8. Package Handlers
A package handler assumes a crucial role in the efficient and secure delivery of packages. Their primary responsibility involves meticulously sorting and organizing packages, ensuring that each item is accurately labeled and prepared for transport to its intended destination.
Package handlers may also be entrusted with the task of picking up packages from designated locations, utilizing machinery such as forklifts and trucks to facilitate the loading and unloading process.
Their attention to detail and adherence to established protocols contribute to the smooth operation of logistics and ensure the timely and safe delivery of packages to their recipients.
Package Handlers earn an average salary of $13.40 per hour nationwide.
9. Campus Booksellers
Campus booksellers play a vital role in supporting college students by providing comprehensive assistance and guidance in acquiring the necessary course materials. Their responsibilities extend beyond simply locating books, as they also offer valuable advice and promptly address any inquiries college students may have.
Campus booksellers are responsible for maintaining accurate inventory records and ensuring that bookshelves are well-stocked and organized. They efficiently handle the distribution of orders and coordinate deliveries, ensuring that college students receive their materials promptly. Additionally, they may serve as cashiers, efficiently processing payments for purchases and facilitating returns by issuing credits.
Campus booksellers earn an average salary of $10.04 per hour nationwide.
10. Swim Instructors
A swim instructor plays a crucial role in imparting the vital skill of swimming and fostering comfort in deep water. Through a combination of engaging demonstrations, interactive simulations, and hands-on training, they guide individuals in acquiring the techniques and confidence necessary for swimming proficiency.
Swim instructors are adept at adapting their teaching methods to accommodate various settings, whether instructing a group class or providing personalized one-on-one lessons.
Their expertise not only focuses on stroke techniques but also emphasizes water safety and instills a sense of comfort and security in the water. By imparting these invaluable skills, swim instructors empower individuals to enjoy the water safely and develop a lifelong love for swimming.
Swim instructors earn an average salary of $17.06 per hour nationwide.
11. Nanny
A nanny assumes a pivotal role in providing nurturing and comprehensive childcare within the confines of a client’s home. Their responsibilities encompass a wide range of duties, including feeding, bathing, and ensuring children are settled for naptime.
Nannies also excel in organizing and facilitating engaging activities, overseeing playtime, and creating a stimulating and safe environment for children to thrive.
Additionally, they may be entrusted with the responsibility of transporting children to and from school or extracurricular activities, ensuring their timely and secure transportation.
With their dedication and care, nannies offer invaluable support to families, contributing to the overall well-being and development of the children under their care.
Nannies earn an average salary of $15.27 per hour nationwide.
12. Campus Library Clerk
A campus library clerk plays an integral role in supporting the operations of a library, collaborating closely with librarians to ensure smooth functioning. Their responsibilities encompass various tasks, such as efficiently sorting and shelving a wide range of materials, including books, periodicals, reference resources, and other printed materials.
Additionally, they actively assist college students in locating specific items they require, providing valuable guidance and support. Campus library clerks also facilitate the borrowing process, aiding individuals in checking out books and managing related administrative tasks.
Moreover, they demonstrate excellent customer service skills by promptly addressing inquiries received through phone calls and email, ensuring that library users receive the assistance they need.
Through their dedication and attention to detail, campus library clerks contribute to the efficient organization and accessibility of valuable resources within the library environment.
Campus Library Clerk earns an average salary of $12.23 per hour nationwide.
13. Animal Caretakers
Animal caretakers assume a vital role in the well-being and care of non-farm animals, undertaking a range of essential duties in various settings such as kennels, pet daycares, veterinary clinics, animal shelters, pet stores, zoos, and aquariums.
Their responsibilities encompass ensuring the physical and emotional needs of animals are met through tasks such as grooming, bathing, feeding, providing water, and engaging in regular exercise and walks.
Animal caretakers demonstrate a deep understanding of animal behavior and welfare, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for the animals under their care.
Their commitment and compassion contribute to the overall health and happiness of the animals, creating a positive and enriching experience within their respective environments.
Animal Caretakers earn an average salary of $11.53 per hour nationwide.
14. Bank Tellers
Bank tellers play a pivotal role in providing exceptional customer service and facilitating various financial transactions for customers, and helping college students with part-time jobs. Their responsibilities encompass assisting customers with a wide range of services, including depositing, withdrawing, and transferring money, as well as fulfilling money orders.
Bank tellers efficiently handle phone inquiries, warmly greet customers, and ensure accurate cash counting and handling. They meticulously file deposit slips, oversee and manage the operation of ATMs, and maintain proper balancing of financial records.
With their attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, bank tellers ensure a seamless banking experience for customers while upholding strict security and confidentiality protocols.
Through their professionalism and expertise, bank tellers contribute to the smooth functioning of the banking system and the satisfaction of customers.
Bank Tellers earn an average salary of $12.29 per hour nationwide.
15. Brand Ambassadors
Brand ambassadors play a vital role in enhancing publicity and elevating brand awareness on behalf of companies. Serving as authentic representatives of the brand, they are responsible for actively promoting products and services within their social circles, leveraging the power of social media.
Brand ambassadors engage with their audience by sharing compelling content, fostering discussions, and building brand affinity. Moreover, they contribute to the visibility and market presence of the brand by providing product samples to retailers, conducting engaging product demonstrations, and gathering valuable customer feedback.
Brand ambassadors also excel in building meaningful relationships with customers and vendors, acting as liaisons between the brand and its target audience. Through their passion and dedication, brand ambassadors play a significant role in driving the success and growth of the brand.
Brand Ambassadors earn an average salary of $17.44 per hour nationwide.
Top Factors To Consider When Getting A Job as a College Student
When searching for job opportunities as a college student, it’s crucial to prioritize flexibility, minimize stress, and focus on skill development.
Flexibility
As you balance your studies, look for jobs that offer flexible hours to accommodate your class schedule.
Stress Levels
Opt for low-stress roles that won’t hinder your academic progress or require excessive commitment.
Skill Development
Additionally, seek positions that align with your career goals, allowing you to acquire relevant skills and experience. For instance, if you’re pursuing fashion merchandising, consider exploring employment opportunities in the retail industry.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can find rewarding jobs that enhance your college experience and contribute to your future success.
FAQs
Is Chicago a good place to live for college?
Chicago stands as an exceptional city for college students, boasting a remarkable array of esteemed institutions such as the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, and the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Conclusion
While the aforementioned jobs are excellent choices for college students, numerous other opportunities exist that provide the flexibility, skill development, and low-stress environment that college students seek.
Holding a job while pursuing your degree offers valuable benefits, including resume enhancement and the cultivation of essential professional skills that will serve you well in the post-college job market.
By actively engaging in employment during your studies, you can expand your skill set, gain practical experience, and establish a strong foundation for your future career.
These opportunities not only provide financial support but also contribute to personal growth and readiness for the professional world that awaits you after graduation.
