The Best Summer Jobs for College Students

The Best Summer Jobs for College Students

Endless essays, mountains of homework, copious amounts of coffee, and stressful study sessions…the college student life is busy! It is easy to understand the appeal of a summer break after such an intense year. However, for many students the summer season is their only opportunity to bulk up their college savings and reduce the need for student loans. Acquiring a summer job is also a great way to gain experience in their area of interest and to beef up their resume.

If you are keen to secure summer employment, but you are unsure which role is the best fit for you then keep reading! The following list outlines job ideas for students with varying interests and strengths.

Before we get started, it is important to consider the following factors in your job search. Once you have nailed down which are most important to you, you will have a clearer idea of the right job fit for you!

What factors matter most to you for a summer job?

1. Pay

If the main aim of the game is to make as much money as possible within the summer season then you will want to look at jobs that offer higher hourly wages, or that can guarantee good tips. For example, working as a server for a top class restaurant may see you earn a lot in tips daily.

2. Schedule

Although you may be intent on making cash and making it fast, you will also want to spend time with friends and family over the summer. An ideal job will have some flexibility that enables you to make the most of your summer be it hitting the golf course, lounging on the beach, or attending a concert.

3. Experience

A summer job can be the perfect way to gain invaluable experience for the future. If you are set on pursuing a career in a competitive field, then the work experience and networking opportunities that come with a summer job can be crucial.

Types and pay ranges for summer jobs for college students

Outdoor Jobs: $9 – $18

Do you prefer the idea of an outdoor office and the chance to enjoy the summer sun? Then a job working outside may be the right fit for you. The good news is there are many options for college students. Here are the average pay estimates for popular outdoor jobs.

Mover: $16

The flexible work schedule and the opportunity to get paid to workout make moving a popular choice for active individuals. At Gentle Giant Moving Company, our movers can choose their own schedule which allows them time to enjoy their hobbies. We also offer Giants a minimum starting wage of $18, more than many moving companies. Our moving crews share a great camaraderie and many of our summer movers return yearly to work alongside the lifelong friends they have made at the company. Moving in the summer heat is no easy feat though and the role requires a good deal of physical stamina.

Landscaper: $14

Similar to a mover, working as a landscaper will require high levels of physical stamina. You can expect to spend your days mowing lawns, pruning bushes, planting flowers and trees, and maintaining gardens.

Lifeguard: $10

This summer job will look great on your resume as it demonstrates that you are responsible and have the ability to handle high-pressure situations. Check out your local swimming pool or visit the nearest public beach to see if there are any available roles for you.

Camp Counselor: $10

If you are a teacher-in-training or enjoy spending time with children then a job as a summer camp counselor may be ideal for you. This role can benefit students in their future career as it showcases their leadership skills. To really beef up your resume, apply to a camp that focuses on your field of interest. For example, if you are studying science then working as a counselor at a science camp will be a great opportunity to gain experience.

Office Jobs $11 – $18

For some, the idea of working in an air conditioned building is more attractive than the summer heat. There are many options available to students who are interested in gaining experience in the corporate office setting.

Receptionist: $13

This role is well-suited to a highly-organized and personable individual. As a receptionist, you will often be the first point of contact for customers and this will require strong communication skills. Additionally, you will be responsible for office correspondence including answering the phone, responding to emails, and scheduling appointments. For those interested in pursuing a career in the corporate setting, this role will stand out on a resume and enable you to widen your professional network.

Paid Intern: $ Varies by Job Field

Depending on your major, you may be able to secure a paid internship that allows you to gain hands-on experience in your field of interest. Such knowledge will set you apart from other candidates in the future.

Service Jobs $7 – $15

Server: $8

This job could be perfect for those interested in pursuing a career in the service or food industry. For example, aspiring chefs or restaurateurs can gain an insight into how a kitchen is run efficiently. Working as a server also enables students to gain key soft skills including communication, organization, and multi-tasking. Although the median salary can be as low as $7.15, servers can make the bulk of their money through tips. Make sure to check out the restaurant’s gratuity system before accepting a position!

Online Tutor: $19

Thanks to the internet, tutoring opportunities have expanded. Online tutoring companies like Chegg offer seasonal roles to students, or you can find your own clients at college or from your hometown schools. PayScale reported that online tutors can make as much as $20 an hour. This role also offers the additional benefit of a work from home environment, removing the need to commute in busy summer traffic.

Want to be a Gentle Giant mover for the summer? Check out our moving careers page for more information on the company’s stellar culture and benefits, and access our employment pre-application to kick-start your potential career with Gentle Giant.