Best Part-Time Jobs in Plymouth for Students: Earn, Learn, and Explore

For many students, finding a part-time job isn’t just about pocket money; it’s a way to build skills, meet people, and gain independence. In Plymouth, over 500 student-friendly roles are available across retail, hospitality, campus jobs, and more, offering flexible hours and wages between £8.60 and £15 per hour. Thanks to the presence of three major universities, employers here genuinely understand the student lifestyle, whether that means exam season stress or midweek schedule changes.

International students can legally work up to 20 hours per week during term time, making it feasible to strike a balance between their studies and earning.

And if you're considering where to stay while studying, there’s a wide range of student accommodation in Plymouth, from shared flats near campus to private studio options, making it easier to live close to both university and work opportunities.

This blog breaks down everything you need to know: from where to look for part-time work in Plymouth to how to stay within visa limits, plus tips to help you make the most of every shift. Whether you're keen to boost your budget or gain real-world experience, Plymouth’s thriving student job scene has something for everyone.

Student Job Scene in Plymouth: The Quick Lowdown

Over 500 job opportunities are up for grabs for students in Plymouth, with hourly pay ranging from £8.60 to £15.

• International students can work up to 20 hours a week during term time.
• Tons of part-time gigs in campus roles, retail, and hospitality, flexible, varied, and student-friendly.
• With three universities in Plymouth, employers here actually understand student schedules, exam crunches, and the art of last-minute shifts.

Thinking about working while studying in Plymouth?

It’s not just about the paycheck; your experience will be shaped by the city itself. From stunning coastal views to a buzzing student scene, Plymouth offers a unique lifestyle. Curious about what it’s really like to live here? Check out our blog on the pros and cons of living in Plymouth to see if this oceanside city fits your vibe.

Why Plymouth Makes Working While Studying So Doable

Right, so here's the deal with working in Plymouth.

This place is basically designed for student employment. Three universities. 30,000+ students. That's a lot of people needing jobs.

So what happened? Employers adapted. They get your timetable. They understand exam stress. They actually want students because you're reliable and motivated.

What's different here:

• A massive student population means bosses understand your life
• Coastal tourism creates loads of seasonal work
• University partnerships mean proper on-campus jobs
• International business links create diverse opportunities
• Your money goes further than in expensive cities

And it’s not just the jobs, student life here is next level. From buzzing nightlife to scenic study spots, Plymouth’s got the vibe. Want the full picture? Check out our blog on student life in Plymouth to see what makes this city such a hit with students.

Real talk: Most students here work. It's not just possible, it's normal.

Legal Bits You Can't Ignore

UK Students

Your situation: Work as much as you want, anywhere you want, full rights

What you need:

• National Insurance number (get this sorted immediately)
• Bank account (no cash payments anymore)
• Right to work proof (passport usually)

International Students

The 20-hour rule: Seriously enforced. Break it, lose your visa. Not joking.

Visa stuff:

• Student visa = 20 hours max during term
• Unlimited during official holidays
• Some jobs are off-limits (check your visa letter)
• The graduate route gives you 2 years of unrestricted work later
• Don't mess about: Always check your specific visa conditions. Each one's different.

Everyone Needs This

• National Insurance: Ring 0345 600 0643 or apply online
• Tax code: Usually 1257L for students
• Documentation: Bring a passport and visa to every interview
• Money reality: You'll pay tax if you earn over £242 weekly. Most students don't hit this.

Want the full lowdown on student jobs across the UK? From visa rules to top-paying roles and where to find them, our ultimate guide to student jobs in the UK breaks it all down. Whether you're a local or international student, it's your go-to resource for working while studying.

What You'll Actually Earn

Monthly Reality Check

• 10 hours weekly: £344–£460 monthly
• 15 hours weekly: £516–£690 monthly
• 20 hours weekly: £688–£920 monthly (international max)
  Context: Average student rent here is £450–£900. Part-time work genuinely covers this, plus living costs.

Wondering how far your earnings will stretch in Plymouth?

Dive into our blog on the cost of living in Plymouth for a breakdown of typical expenses, from rent and groceries to transport and entertainment. 

Or better yet, crunch the numbers yourself with our cost of living calculator to see how your budget stacks up based on your lifestyle.

Job Types That Actually Work

On-Campus Jobs

Why they're brilliant: On-campus roles fit their lives well with flexible shifts, social vibes, and bonus points for skills that look great on a CV.

University of Plymouth:

• Student ambassadors £10–£12/hour (giving campus tours, helping at events)
• Library staff £9–£11/hour (quiet, perfect for introverts)
• Research assistants £12–£15/hour (looks amazing on your CV)
• Admin support £9–£12/hour (proper office experience)

Students' Union jobs:

• Bar work £9–£11/hour (social, fun environment)
• Event crew £10–£12/hour (festivals, gigs, sports events)
• Shop assistant £9–£10/hour (selling uni merchandise)

Want to get even more involved on campus?

Beyond paid roles, joining a student society is one of the best ways to build skills, meet people, and boost your uni experience. From niche hobbies to career-focused groups, there’s something for everyone. Check out our blog on student societies in Plymouth to find your crew and make the most of campus life.

Application hack: Check myCareer every week. Jobs are posted randomly throughout the year.

Retail Work

Why students love it: It’s the ultimate student combo, work when you want, gain skills you'll actually use later, and meet people while you’re at it.

Top Places to Apply:

• Drake Circus: Packed with high-street shops—always hiring, student-friendly vibe
• Tesco Roborough: Large format store with supportive management and solid hours
• Lidl Woolwell: Smaller teams, strong training, and competitive pay
• The Range: Plymouth-based retailer offering varied roles in both shopfront and warehouse

Typical Roles and Responsibilities:

• Running tills
• Stocking shelves
• Customer support and queries

Pay Range:

£8.60–£12.00/hour depending on role and experience

Best Times to Apply:

• September: Pre-Christmas hiring wave
• January: Post-holiday sales demand

Whether you're after a quick income boost or looking to build retail experience for your CV, Plymouth’s retail scene offers student-friendly opportunities that work as hard as you do.

Hospitality and Food

The coastal bonus: Tourism creates loads of opportunities

Barbican restaurants:

• Loads of places need waiters, kitchen staff, bar staff
• The summer season means more shifts are available
• Evening and weekend work fits around lectures

City centre pubs:

• Student-friendly venues (they employ loads of you)
• Tips can boost your hourly rate significantly
• Understand you can't work during exam periods

Chain places:

• Costa, Starbucks: Barista roles, flexible hours
• McDonald's, KFC: Guaranteed hours, good training
• Pizza places: Delivery (if you've got transport), kitchen work

Pay reality: £8.60–£13/hour plus tips (seriously, tips can add £20–£50 weekly)

Want to know which restaurants are hiring, or just where to grab a bite after your shift? Check out our blog on restaurants in Plymouth for the best spots to eat, work, and unwind.

And if you're looking to mix work with nightlife vibes…
Explore our blog on clubs in Plymouth to see which venues offer student-friendly shifts and what the city’s party scene looks like after dark.

Tutoring

Why it works: In a city full of students, tutoring is always in demand. Whether you're helping GCSE teens survive maths homework or guiding A-Level prep, your subject smarts are gold.

Top tutoring routes:

• Tutoring Heroes: £15–£25/hour for maths, English, and science
• Uni connections: Loads of opportunities for private gigs
• Online options: Work from your laptop, your bed—your vibe

Support roles that make a difference:

• In-school learning support
• After-school club supervision
• Special needs assistance

What you’ll need:

• A DBS check (usually a must)
• Solid grades in your subject area

What you’ll earn:

£12–£25/hour (freedom + fair pay = win)

Healthcare

Why it’s hot: With an ageing population and expanding health needs, Plymouth’s healthcare sector offers steady, rewarding jobs for students who want meaningful work.

Where to jump in:

• Derriford Hospital: Healthcare assistant roles
• Care homes: Support work that makes a real impact
• Home care: Flexible shifts, heartfelt work

Flex your schedule with the bank system:

Sign up for shifts when you’re free, ideal for balancing studies.

Entry requirements:

• Care certificate training (usually provided on the job)

Pay range:

£11–£15/hour plus the bonus of career-building experience

Extra perks:

• Work that actually feels good
• Pathways into nursing, social care, and more

Delivery Work

Why students love it: Total flexibility, instant earnings, and no boss breathing down your neck.

Top apps to get started:

• Deliveroo: Bike or car, £8–£15/hour (tips included)
• Uber Eats: Flexible shifts, instant payments
• Just Eat: Deliver for local restaurants

What you’ll need:

• Bike, scooter, or car
• Smartphone
• Right to work documents

Earning potential:

£60–£120 daily during busy periods (especially weekends and summer)

Local delivery gigs:

Plymouth’s buzzing food scene means loads of businesses need drivers, especially when tourists flood in.

Seasonal Hustles: Sun, Snow and Extra Dough

Whether you’re soaking up sun on the Hoe or stringing fairy lights in the Christmas market, Plymouth serves up seasonal gigs that pack flexibility, fun, and some seriously decent pay.

Summer vibes:

• Be the face of Plymouth with tourist info roles
• Rent out kayaks and paddleboards with beach equipment gigs
• Join the action as part of the festival crew
• Keep the energy flowing with Plymouth Hoe activity support

Festive feels:

• Bag a spot in retail temp roles (think holiday buzz + staff discounts)
• Help run the show with event coordination
• Wrap gifts like a pro at holiday pop-ups
• Soak in the seasonal magic with Christmas market shifts

Why it works:

• Temporary = often above minimum wage
• Perfect for short bursts of work
• Awesome for mixing things up, meeting new people, and stacking your CV with variety

Where to Find Student Jobs That Actually Exist

Looking for part-time work in Plymouth but don’t know where to start? Whether you’re into hospitality, retail, admin, or something niche, these channels are tried, tested, and student-approved:

Online Options That Work

Student-Specific Sites:

• StudentJob UK: Tailored student roles, updated regularly
• Employment4Students: Jobs via uni partnerships and trusted employers
• myCareer Portal: University of Plymouth's internal listings

General Job Boards:

• Indeed: Massive selection; use filters for part-time and flexible roles
• Totaljobs: Excellent for retail and hospitality
• Reed: More corporate roles for students thinking ahead

Local Platforms:

• FindAJob: UK government site with local listings
• Gumtree: Casual gigs (just be scam-savvy!)

Direct Applications That Actually Work

University Career Services:

• Plymouth Careers Team: In touch with local employers
• Marjon Futures: Industry links and placement support
• Arts Uni Careers Support: Creative and freelance-focused roles

Recruitment Agencies:

• Big Ant Recruitment: Hospitality and events
• Adecco Plymouth: Seasonal and temp positions
• Reed Plymouth: Professional and graduate roles

Old-School Strategy That Still Works:

• Walking In: Hand in your CV at shops, restaurants, cafes, and local businesses still love face-to-face

Word-of-Mouth Goldmines

• Student Societies: Members often share job opportunities
• Flatmates and Friends: Personal recommendations = trusted leads
• Work Groups: WhatsApp or Facebook groups where students post gigs
• Social Media: Plymouth university pages, local communities, and forums

Student Job Application Game: How to Win It

No fluff. Just what works, from crafting a killer CV to surviving interviews and landing the gig.

CV That Gets Noticed

What Employers Really Care About:

• Reliability: They need to know you’ll show up (yes, even for the 7 am shift).
• Customer Service Attitude: Be friendly, be helpful, people skills matter.
• Teamwork: Most student roles are team-based, so show you can play nice.
• Flexibility: Can you adapt to changing schedules? Gold star if yes.
• Academic Commitment: It shows you're serious and can stick to goals.

Structure that Actually Lands Interviews:

• Clear contact details and availability right at the top
• Education section with current course and year
• Any work experience, even volunteering or school projects counts
• Skills tailored to the role (e.g. communication, cash handling, multitasking)
• Mix of academic + personal references = balance!

Pro Student Hacks:

• List your uni term dates and exam periods
• Highlight customer-facing experience
• Mention language skills (huge plus in a tourist city)
• Say you're staying in Plymouth long-term, employers love stability

Nail the Interview Like a Pro

Common Questions You’ll Definitely Hear:

• How will you balance this job with your studies?
• What hours can you realistically commit to?
• Are you available during peak exam times?
• How long do you plan to stay in the role?
• Why did you apply for this job/company?

Prep That Works:

• Research the company, know what they do, and who they serve
• Have real examples ready (teamwork, solving problems, handling customers)
• Be precise about your available hours
• Dress right, business casual usually hits the mark
• Prepare a few smart questions to ask (e.g. training, flexibility, development)
• Know your Plymouth! Local knowledge impresses tourist-focused employers

Follow-Up = Future Opportunities

After Applying:

• If you hear nothing in a week, follow up politely

After the Interview:

• Send a quick thank-you email within 24 hours

If Rejected:

• Ask for feedback, it helps AND keeps the door open

Hidden Gem: Networking

• Even rejections can lead to future roles; employers remember polite, proactive students.

Balancing Work and Studies

Time Management Reality

• Map out your academic calendar (exams, assignments, deadlines)
• Block out study time, lectures, and work shifts weekly
• Leave buffer time for unexpected academic work

Tools That Help:

• Google Calendar for everything
• University timetable apps
• Study apps like Forest

Protecting Your Grades

• Never consistently sacrifice sleep (7+ hours minimum)
• Protect exam periods (request reduced hours 2 weeks before)
• Attendance matters most for academic success
• Use commute time for reading
• Be upfront with employers about academic commitments from day one
• Use uni academic support if grades start slipping

Money Management That Makes Sense

• Track all income (loans, grants, work)
• Fixed costs: rent, utilities, transport
• Variable costs: food, entertainment, course stuff
• Emergency fund: £200–£500 for unexpected things

Student Money Tips:

• Open a student bank account with an interest-free overdraft, a lifesaver during tight months
• Use student discounts everywhere (Unidays, TOTUM, Railcards)
• Cook instead of eating out constantly
• Share transport costs with flatmates
• Keep earning records, understand your tax code, and claim back overpaid tax

Ready to take your money game to the next level? Start by choosing the right financial foundation. Our UK student bank account guide compares top banks, their overdraft deals, and student perks to help you decide.

Want to boost your income without burning out?

Check out our blog on top student-earning apps for flexible, low-effort ways to earn from your phone, perfect for fitting around your studies.

Where Plymouth Students Work: The Ultimate Local Guide

Whether you’re looking to pad your wallet or build your CV, Plymouth offers student jobs that fit every vibe, from retail buzz to quiet lab work. Here's the insider scoop:

Retail Hustle: High-Street, High Opportunity

• Drake Circus Shopping Centre: With over 50 stores, this is the student job hotspot. Retailers here are constantly hiring for part-time shifts.
• Tesco: Several locations, student-friendly shifts, and a rep for flexibility.
• Asda: Known for student development programs and decent pay.
• Sainsbury’s: Smaller local branches are perfect for picking up extra hours.

Hospitality Hotspots: From Waterfront to Pub Life

• The Barbican: Historic charm and packed with pubs, bars, and restaurants that love student staff.
• Royal William Yard: Classy vibes, great tips, and bonus: events and retail gigs too.
• City Centre: Traditional pubs and casual eateries are always hunting for part-time help.
• Mutley Plain: A student-heavy area with takeaway joints, cafés, and local favourites.

Healthcare Roles: Help Out, Get Paid

• Derriford Hospital: Offers flexible bank shifts and healthcare assistant roles. Great if you're in a medical or health-related course.
• Care Homes: Located across the city, often hiring students for support roles with flexible hours.
• Home Care Agencies: Work that lets you make home visits (sometimes with a car provided), ideal for students with availability during the day.

On-Campus Jobs: Work Where You Study

• Campus Services: From catering to cleaning to security, uni-run jobs offer convenience and predictable schedules.
• Research Projects: Paid gigs as student research assistants, especially useful for building academic cred.
• Student Services: Become a peer mentor, ambassador, or help desk assistant.
• Uni Events: External conferences and local happenings need extra hands, and they pay!

Career Development

Skills You'll Gain

Part-time jobs aren’t just about earning money; they’re mini career accelerators. You’ll build:

• Customer service and communication
• Time management and organisation
• Teamwork and leadership
• Problem-solving under pressure
• Money and business understanding

Industry Experience

Depending on where you work, you’ll pick up real-world skills:

• Retail: Sales, stock management, visual displays
• Hospitality: Food safety, events, multicultural communication
• Healthcare: Patient care, medical terms, healthcare systems
• Education: Teaching methods, behaviour management

Want to dive deeper into how part-time jobs shape your future? Our blog on the benefits of part-time jobsexplores how these roles build confidence, boost employability, and help you stand out in graduate applications.

Professional Networking

Building Connections

• Managers as future references
• Colleagues in your study field
• Customers in relevant industries
• Alumni working locally

Long-Term Benefits

• Graduate job opportunities with current employers
• Industry contacts for post-uni job search
• Professional references from actual work
• Understanding workplace culture

CV Building

Progression Opportunities

• Many part-time roles offer promotion to supervisor roles
• Skills transfer to graduate positions
• Work experience shows commitment
• Industry knowledge helps graduate applications

Future Applications

• Keep records of achievements, responsibilities, and training
• Collect positive feedback
• Track progression and increased responsibilities
• Maintain relationships with supervisors

International Student Specifics

Visa Compliance

• Stick to the 20-hour rule during term time; violations are taken seriously.
• You can work full-time during official university holidays.
• Placement years have different rules; check your visa conditions.
• The Graduate Route allows 2 years of unrestricted work after graduation.

Need help navigating the visa maze? Our UK student visa guide breaks down everything from application steps to post-study work options, so you can focus on your studies, not paperwork.

UK Workplace Culture

• Be punctual, it’s a big deal in UK workplaces.
• Communication is direct but polite.
• Health and safety rules are taken seriously.
• Equal opportunities are respected across industries.

Communication Tips

• Ask questions if unsure
• Learn British workplace expressions
• Understand UK customer service expectations
• Practice active listening

Practical Stuff

• Banking is essential; most employers won’t pay in cash.
• Get a UK mobile number for shift updates and employer contact.
• Learn bus routes, or consider cycling for short commutes.
• Provide a UK-based emergency contact for job forms and university records.

Not sure what to pack or prep before arriving? Our student checklist for moving to UK covers everything from documents to dorm essentials, so you land ready, not lost.

Support Networks

• Join international student societies to share opportunities and experiences.
• Tap into the university's international support for visa and work guidance.
• Connect with cultural communities for informal job networks.
• Explore online groups like Facebook communities for local tips and job leads.

Accommodation and Work: Where You Live Shapes How You Earn

Finding the right place to live in Plymouth isn’t just about comfort; it’s about unlocking job opportunities, saving time, and building a lifestyle that works for you.

Location Strategy That Works

Living close to campus or major employers can make part-time work easier and more rewarding. Here's how different areas stack up:

• City Centre: Walking distance to retail, hospitality, and delivery jobs. Ideal for students working in Drake Circus or nearby cafés.
• Greenbank: Close to uni with great transport links. A smart pick for students juggling lectures and shifts.
• Mutley Plain: A buzzing student hub with local job opportunities in food, retail, and nightlife.
• Near Campus: Perfect for on-campus roles like student ambassadors, library staff, or event crew.

Want to explore more neighbourhoods before you decide? 

Check out our blog on the best areas to live in Plymouth, where we break down top student-friendly locations, from leafy suburbs to vibrant city spots. Whether you're after affordability, convenience, or community vibes, we've got you covered.

Want a living space that’s designed for student success?

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) offers all-inclusive rent, modern amenities, and unbeatable proximity to campus and employers. Discover why PBSAs are a top choice in our guide to purpose-built student accommodation, where we break down the perks, from security and social spaces to career-friendly locations.

Still deciding where to live?

Explore our Plymouth student housing guide for tips on contracts, roommates, and choosing between halls and house shares. Looking for value?

And if you’re wondering why PBSAs are such a hit, our blog on why live in Plymouth student accommodation reveals how these spaces offer more than just a bed; they’re built for student life, career growth, and community.

Discover Top Student Properties in Plymouth:

Looking for the perfect place to call home while you study? Whether you’re after skyline views, social vibes, or waterfront calm, you’ll find the best student housing options in Plymouth that suit every lifestyle and budget. Here are three top picks to kick off your search:

• Beckley Point
• iQ Astor House
• Alexandra Works

Transport: Your Commute, Your Advantage

Getting around Plymouth efficiently means more job options and less stress.

• Walking Distance: Save money and time. Living in a PBSA near campus or the city centre means you can walk to work, lectures, and social events.
• Bus Routes: Understanding Plymouth’s public transport opens up roles across the city. From Citybus to Park & Ride, Plymouth’s network is student-friendly and well-connected.
• Cycling: Plymouth is bike-friendly, and many PBSAs offer secure bike storage. E-bike hire schemes and dedicated cycle lanes make commuting a breeze.
• Car: Great for delivery jobs, but factor in fuel, insurance, and parking costs. Electric car clubs and shared vehicle schemes are also gaining popularity.

Want the full lowdown on getting around the city?

Check out our blog on Plymouth’s transport system, where we explore everything from bus routes and bike hire to train connections and water taxis. Whether you're commuting to class or heading to work, this guide helps you navigate Plymouth like a pro.

Safety First: Why Plymouth Is a Smart Choice for International Students

Plymouth isn’t just student-friendly, it’s internationally welcoming. With low crime rates, a compact city layout, and dedicated university support teams, it’s consistently ranked among the UK’s safest cities for students.

PBSAs take safety seriously, with secure entry systems, 24/7 staff, and CCTV, they offer peace of mind that traditional housing often lacks. Learn more in our blog on Plymouth’s safety guide for international students, where we explore everything from neighbourhood security to university support services.

Avoiding Pitfalls: Stay Smart, Stay Safe

Moving to the UK for studies is exciting, but choosing the wrong job along with the wrong accommodation can lead to stress, financial strain, and academic setbacks. Here’s how to avoid common traps:

Job Scams

Red flags to watch for:

• Upfront payment requests
• Unrealistic earning promises
• Vague job descriptions
• Pressure to start immediately
• Communication only through texts

How to verify:

• Research the company online
• Check official websites
• Meet in person before starting
• Ensure proper contracts

Employment Rights

Know your rights:

• Minimum wage protection
• Discrimination protection
• Right to pay slips and contracts
• Health and safety protection

Get help from:

• University careers services
• Citizens Advice Bureau
• ACAS for workplace disputes
• Student union advice

Academic Impact

Warning signs:

• Grades are declining due to work
• Missing lectures for shifts
• Exhaustion affecting performance
• Social isolation

Solutions:

• Reduce hours during busy academic periods
• Communicate with employers about priorities
• Use the university academic support
• Consider more flexible work types

Accommodation choices matter here too. Scammers often target students searching for housing. Our student housing mistakes guide highlights how to spot rental scams and avoid misleading listings.

Your Guide, Your Path: Plymouth Awaits

Exploring part-time work in Plymouth isn’t just about financial support; it's about crafting a student experience that’s well-rounded, empowering, and forward-thinking. Whether you’re picking up shifts at Drake Circus, tutoring online, or joining campus staff, the right job can shape your confidence, discipline, and career direction.

The beauty of Plymouth lies in its accessibility and student-friendly vibe. With walkable streets, reliable public transport, and welcoming communities, juggling work and study becomes genuinely achievable, especially when you choose accommodation that’s designed for student life.

Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) amplifies that advantage. These residences are built with your needs in mind, close to campus, safe and secure, and equipped with facilities that support both study and downtime. Living in a PBSA means you're well-connected to job opportunities, uni resources, and a vibrant social network, all within reach.

Want to get to know the city better before you dive in? Check out our Plymouth city guide, where we walk you through the best neighbourhoods, local hotspots, transport tips, and hidden gems that make student life in Plymouth unforgettable.

Ready to Elevate Your Student Life?