The University of Ottawa offers more than 1,700 student jobs each year across faculties and services, giving you opportunities to develop valuable skills while balancing work and your studies.
1. Take part in the Work-Study Program
Access the Work-Study Navigator through uoZone and start browsing all the available positions in our student services, faculties and more. These jobs are a great way to get work experience, often related to your field of study or your skill set.
Hiring for the fall 2026 term opened on August 1 and runs until October 13. You must fill out the financial questionnaire, demonstrate financial need and be enrolled as a full-time student. You can only be matched to one work-study position per term, typically from seven to 12 hours of work per week. You could earn around $7,450 over the fall and winter. Part-time jobs when you’re a student can be a stepping stone to a fulfilling career. Find out more about the Work-Study Program.
Aya Fakhrdine, fifth-year student in biopharmaceutical sciences — Information academic assistant, Faculty of Science
Aya’s first on-campus job was as an academic operations assistant with the Faculty of Education. There, she supported daily administrative operations and helped students navigate academic processes. The role gave her the opportunity to build confidence, strengthen her organizational skills and gain valuable professional experience alongside her studies.
After her first position, Aya joined the Faculty of Science as an information academic assistant. She continues to support students while expanding her knowledge of academic services. Working in two different faculties has helped her develop strong communication, problem-solving and customer service skills, and it’s allowed her to explore different career paths and grow her professional network.
“My first campus job helped me grow professionally and personally. I built lasting connections and discovered strengths I didn’t know I had. Every role has challenged me in new ways and prepared me for the opportunities ahead.”
Aya Fakhrdine
— Fifth-year student in biopharmaceutical sciences
2. Find a part-time job outside of the Work-Study Program
The Work-Study Program isn’t the only way to find an on-campus job. Many faculties, services and departments hire students throughout the year for part-time and casual positions that don’t require work-study eligibility.
The summer and early fall are usually peak times for on-campus hiring, but opportunities are available year-round. Whether you’re looking to work in residences, athletics, recreation, libraries or student services, there’s a wide range of positions that can give you experience and fit around your class schedule. The On Campus Employment web page gives you the latest overview and is a great place to browse part-time, casual positions.
Varsity Athletics typically hires in August — you could be a game day DJ, webcaster or announcer, or help ensure Gee-Gees events run smoothly. Who knows? You could even don the furry horse suit and become the next Gee-Gees mascot!
Campus Recreation typically hires throughout the year. Part-time positions include intramural referees, personal trainers, lifeguards and swim instructors, as well as group fitness instructors, fitness attendants and client service attendants.
Jihane Elharhar, fifth-year student in biology — Reception attendant and residence safety ambassador
Jihane began working in residence as a reception attendant, welcoming students and visitors while helping to create a safe, supportive environment. She later took on the role of residence safety ambassador, where she continues to promote community well-being and support students throughout the academic year.
Working in residence has helped Jihane develop strong communication, leadership and problem-solving skills while interacting with students from diverse backgrounds. The experience has allowed her to build confidence, make meaningful connections and play an active role in creating a positive residence community.
“Even the smallest interactions can make a student’s day. Being part of a team that helps create a welcoming and supportive community has been one of the most rewarding parts of my university experience.”
Jihane Elharhar
— Fifth-year student in biology
3. Visit the Career Corner
The Career Corner, located in the Jock Turcot University Centre (UCU), Room 216, is a great place to start. Career specialists and counsellors will be able to tell you more about the Work-Study Program and other ways to find a job.
If you’re on the hunt for a job off campus, they’ll be able to help you prepare and navigate resources, such as job search websites. Beyond that, you can also talk to them about your career concerns and clarify your academic and career path. Check the schedule of in-person and online drop-in sessions.
The Career Corner is your one-stop-shop for anything to do with finding a job or your future career. Whether you’re just starting your university journey or getting ready to enter the job market after graduation, its expert staff members are ready to offer job search advice, career counselling and numerous other services.
What students learned at Career Week
Chris Uriel Gnakale, a fifth-year communication and political science student, attended uOttawa’s Career Week (March 9 to 3, 2026) and shared some insights on how students can navigate today’s job market:
- Employers are increasingly valuing transferable skills like critical thinking, communication and problem-solving.
- These skills matter because they can be applied across many fields and help you adapt to changing work environments.
- Tailor your resumé using keywords from job descriptions to pass automated screening systems.
- Avoid formatting choices like tables or graphics that may confuse application screening systems.
- Research organizations in advance so you can approach conversations with confidence.
- Ask meaningful, thoughtful questions to stand out.
- Focus your networking on building genuine, long-term relationships, not just immediate opportunities.
- Be able to clearly introduce yourself with a concise 30 to 90 second “elevator pitch,” tailored to your audience.
- Think about your career goals before attending networking events.
- Present your background and experience in a clear, structured and context-appropriate way.
- Understand tools like AI and their impact across sectors. This is becoming essential.
- Get involved in student organizations, volunteering or co-op to build experience.
- Explore different roles early to better understand your interests and strengths.
Additional job search insights
- Timing matters: Many campus jobs are filled before the term starts. Checking postings regularly, especially in July–August and November–December, can give you an edge.
- Apply broadly: Even if a position isn’t perfectly aligned with your field, campus jobs build transferable skills and connections that can lead to better opportunities later.
- Leverage your network: University staff and current work-study students can offer advice, share their experiences and sometimes point you toward opportunities. Don’t hesitate to reach out.
- Follow up: After applying or meeting someone at a career event, sending a short follow-up message can help you stand out.
- Think long term: Many on-campus jobs turn into multi-year positions or lead to research positions, co-op placements or references.
Finding a job as a student can feel competitive, but starting on campus gives you a strong advantage. With the right approach, these opportunities can help you gain experience, build connections and lay the foundation for your future career.