When studying in the United States as an international student, managing your finances is essential. Securing a well-paying part-time job on campus can be an excellent way to ease financial pressures while gaining valuable experience. 

These roles not only offer decent pay but also provide opportunities to develop skills that will be beneficial in your future career. Below is a list of some of the highest-paying part-time jobs available to international students studying in the USA.

Part-Time Jobs in the USA

If you are an international student looking for part-time jobs, read more about the jobs given below. 

1. University Representative

Taking up the role of a University Representative is ideal for those who enjoy engaging with new people and working within a team. As a University Representative, you’ll be responsible for promoting the university to prospective students, highlighting its strengths, and explaining why it stands out. 

You may also be tasked with guiding tours of the campus during open days, where you will share your knowledge and interesting insights about the university. This role is particularly beneficial for students who are confident in public speaking and have a genuine enthusiasm for their university.

Average pay: $12.40 per hour

2. Coffee Shop Worker

If your university features an on-campus coffee shop, this could be a fantastic opportunity for part-time work. Beyond the potential perks like discounted or free coffee, it’s an excellent environment for meeting new people. 

Working in a bustling coffee shop involves preparing various beverages, serving customers, and managing cash transactions. It’s a dynamic job that requires quick thinking and the ability to multitask. The experience gained here can be invaluable, particularly for those interested in hospitality or customer service roles.

Average pay: $12.97 per hour

3. Academic Assistant

Becoming an Academic Assistant on campus is another rewarding option, especially for those interested in education. In this role, you will help supervise classroom activities and assist students who may be struggling with course material. 

With some prior experience, you might even have the opportunity to take on more responsibilities, such as leading a class or grading assignments. This position not only allows you to deepen your understanding of your field of study but also provides essential teaching experience.

Average pay: $13.94 per hour

4. Library Staff

For students who wish to combine their love of books with a part-time job, working as a Library Assistant can be the perfect fit. This role involves a variety of tasks, including organising books on shelves, helping patrons locate materials, and providing book recommendations. 

You will also support the library staff with administrative tasks and assist in organising events. It’s a job that offers a peaceful environment, which is ideal for those who prefer a quieter work setting.

Average pay: $14.06 per hour

5. Front Desk Attendant

Working as a Front Desk Attendant within the university can be a highly rewarding experience. This role often involves providing administrative support, offering customer service, and handling communications with both students and staff. 

The job may require you to answer phones, respond to emails, and assist visitors. Larger departments and student unions often have openings for such roles, so it’s worth checking with your university’s career services for available positions. The skills you develop in this role, such as communication and organisation, are highly transferable to various career paths.

Average pay: $15.48 per hour

6. Research Assistant

A Research Assistant position is one of the more prestigious and well-paying part-time jobs available to international students. The specifics of the job can vary depending on the department.

Typically, it involves supporting research projects, managing laboratory equipment, and assisting with data analysis. This role is perfect for students who are highly organised, have strong analytical skills, and possess a keen interest in research. It provides an opportunity to work closely with faculty members and contribute to academic research.

Average pay: $16.14 per hour

7. Departmental Support Staff

Working as a Departmental Support Staff member is another excellent on-campus job, particularly for those who are looking to build a strong CV. In this role, you will offer administrative and secretarial support to a specific department, manage departmental matters, and assist teams with their projects. 

To excel in this position, you’ll need to be proficient with computers and have strong problem-solving and teamwork skills. The experience you gain here can be directly applicable to various professional fields, making it a valuable addition to your resume.

Average pay: $16.44 per hour

8. Catering and Service Assistant

For those who enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, a job as a Catering and Service Assistant could be ideal. This role is often available in university dining facilities, including cafes and restaurants. 

Your duties may include food preparation, serving customers, and ensuring the cleanliness of the dining area. The flexible hours associated with this job make it particularly suitable for students who need to balance their work with academic responsibilities. Additionally, the experience gained in this role is highly relevant to careers in hospitality and food service.

Average pay: $16.74 per hour

9. Retail Associate

Retail roles, such as working in a university’s mini-market or a store selling branded merchandise, offer another excellent opportunity for part-time work. In this job, you will be responsible for assisting customers, managing inventory, and handling cash transactions. 

Retail positions often come with the added benefit of employee discounts, which can be a great perk for students. This job helps develop essential skills in customer service, sales, and inventory management, which are valuable in many career fields.

Average pay: $17.35 per hour

10. Educational Mentor or Peer Tutor

For those who are passionate about helping others succeed academically, becoming an Educational Mentor or Peer Tutor is a fantastic option. This role involves assisting fellow students with their studies, whether it’s through tutoring sessions, helping with assignments, or providing guidance on course material. 

As an international student, you can offer unique perspectives and teaching methods that may resonate well with your peers. This position not only pays well but also allows you to make a meaningful impact on the academic lives of others.

Average pay: $23.94 per hour

Studying in the USA is an exciting opportunity, but it comes with its own set of financial challenges. Working part-time can be a practical solution to help manage these costs while also offering a chance to gain experience and meet new people. However, it’s essential to be aware of the limitations and regulations surrounding employment for international students in the USA. 

Part-Time Employment Regulations

In the United States, international students on F1 visas must adhere to specific work regulations. Generally, F1 visa holders are allowed to work on campus for a maximum of 20 hours per week during the academic term. 

During breaks and holidays, this limit is extended to 40 hours per week. On-campus jobs are an excellent choice as they are often flexible with student schedules and do not require additional work authorisation.

Each state in the U.S. has its own minimum wage laws, so the amount you can earn will depend on where you study. The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, but some states have higher minimum wages, going up to $15 per hour. More skilled jobs, particularly those in research or specialised departments, may offer wages well above this minimum. 

While on-campus employment is generally straightforward for F1 visa holders, off-campus employment is more restricted. If you face severe economic hardship, you may be eligible for off-campus employment, but this requires authorisation from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Always consult with your university’s designated school official (DSO) before pursuing any work opportunities to ensure you comply with visa regulations.

Final Thoughts

While studying in the USA, taking on a part-time job can greatly assist with managing your expenses. The key is to choose a role that not only pays well but also aligns with your interests and career goals. 

Whether you’re working in a research lab, assisting in a library, or mentoring your peers, these roles offer more than just a paycheck—they provide invaluable experience and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Finding these opportunities might seem challenging at first, but with resources like your university’s career services, online job boards, and student networks, you can secure a position that suits your needs and schedule. So, take advantage of the opportunities available, and make the most of your time studying in the USA by gaining both financial support and valuable work experience.