Curious about on-campus opportunities to build your resume, gain interview experience and get connected all while earning a little extra cash? We’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions about working at Portland State. This FAQ covers on-campus jobs, Federal Work-Study, internships, Handshake, and other resources to help you get started.
On-Campus Jobs
What kinds of jobs are available on campus?
There is a wide variety of student employment at Portland State. Many positions are in offices or customer service, but there are also opportunities in:
- Barista and food-service roles
- Maintenance and landscaping
- Campus safety
- Event logistics
- Child care
- Information technology
- Sustainability
- Research
- Tutoring and academic support
- Many other areas
Where can I find on-campus jobs?
Many campus jobs are posted through Handshake. Some positions may also be advertised directly to students in a particular major, department, or area. If you are interested in working in a particular campus office but don't see a position posted, you can also contact or visit the office to ask about potential opportunities.
Jobs are posted throughout the year, and additional positions may become available in the weeks following the start of the academic year. Start looking early, set up job alerts in Handshake, and use the proactive job-search strategies discussed during the webinar.
Do I have to meet every qualification listed in a job posting?
Not necessarily. If you meet approximately 60% of the qualifications and have a strong interest or connection to the work, you are encouraged to apply.
If there is something about your experience or interests that makes you a particularly good fit, explain that in your application or communication with the employer.
The University Career Center can help you figure out how to present your experience and make your application stand out.
Do all campus jobs require a cover letter?
No. Each department or office determines its own application requirements. Depending on the position, you may be asked for:
- A résumé and cover letter
- A quick application through Handshake
- Short-answer questions through an online form
Check each job posting carefully for its specific requirements.
How many hours can I work in an on-campus job?
Most campus jobs are approximately 10–15 hours per week. Student employees will not work more than 20 hours per week, although some positions may offer fewer hours depending on the needs of the department.
How will I know if I got the job I applied for?
The office or department that posted the position will communicate directly with applicants about the hiring process. If you applied more than three weeks ago and haven't heard anything, you can contact the office to ask for an update and whether you are still being considered.
If you don't receive an interview or offer, continue applying for other positions. If you are applying for multiple jobs without receiving interviews, the University Career Center can review your application materials and help you identify ways to strengthen your applications.
Federal Work-Study
How do I know if I received Federal Work-Study?
If you were awarded Federal Work-Study (FWS), it will appear as part of your financial aid package in MyPSU (pdx.edu/fa-dashboard). If your award includes it, you can also access your FWS verification letter there.
Some campus employers specifically look for students with Federal Work-Study because FWS funding helps departments cover part of the student's wages. However, more than half of campus jobs are regular-wage positions, meaning you do not need Federal Work-Study to be hired.
If I receive Federal Work-Study, do I receive the award as a separate payment?
No. Your Federal Work-Study award is used to fund your wages for an eligible campus job.
You are paid monthly for the hours you actually work. The money is paid to you, and you can decide how to use your earnings, including whether to put them toward tuition or other expenses.
If I have a $5,000 Federal Work-Study award, does $5,000 get applied directly to my tuition?
No. The Federal Work-Study award represents the amount you may earn through eligible employment. You receive wages based on the hours you work, with payments made monthly. Starting your job earlier in the academic year can give you more opportunity to use your full award without needing to work as many hours per week later in the year.
What if I have Federal Work-Study but can't find a job?
Keep applying for open positions rather than waiting for one particular employer to respond. You can also use the proactive job-search strategies discussed in the webinar.
If you are applying to multiple positions without receiving interviews, visit the University Career Center to have your résumé and application materials reviewed.
Internships and Other Student Employment
Is there a minimum credit requirement for internships or on-campus employment?
To work on campus, students must be enrolled in at least 6 undergraduate credits, or 5 graduate credits. Learn more about Internships.
Are teaching assistant positions Federal Work-Study jobs?
Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) positions are not Federal Work-Study positions.
There are other hourly positions that support faculty and departments, including classroom assistants, peer tutors, and grader assistants, that may be Federal Work-Study positions.
How can I apply to become a peer tutor?
There is a link to the tutor application at the bottom of the Tutoring Services page.
Handshake and Career Support
What should I put on my Handshake profile for my education?
Enter the degree you are currently pursuing and your anticipated graduation date. You can update this information later if your plans change.
How can I tell if my résumé is good enough before applying?
The University Career Center can help you review your résumé, application materials, and overall job-search strategy. Visit the University Career Center in FMH 342 for drop-ins from 1-2pm, or make an appointment online.
Are there job fairs at PSU?
Yes. PSU hosts career and internship fairs that bring outside employers to campus. These events take place during the fall, winter, and spring terms.
There are also on-campus employment opportunities and job-fair events specifically focused on student employment. You can get more details here.
Good luck on the job hunt!