Top Part- Time Student Jobs in Gainesville Near University of Florida

Balancing classes, textbooks, and social life at the University of Florida is already a full-time job—but what if you want to earn a little extra cash too? Whether it’s to pay for late-night pizza runs, pitch in on rent, or start saving early, part-time jobs in Gainesville are a fantastic way for students to boost their income and gain real-world experience.
The best part? You don’t have to look far. From flexible on-campus roles to lively local cafes and tutoring gigs, there are tons of opportunities around UF. And if you’re living in student housing in Gainesville, many of these jobs are just a short walk or bike ride away. So, let’s dive in and explore the top part-time jobs for students!
Where Can Students Find Part-Time Jobs in Gainesville?
Looking for a part-time job in Gainesville? You’re definitely not alone! With the cost of living on the rise and student expenses adding up, many University of Florida students are on the lookout for flexible and reliable job options. The good news? There are plenty of ways to land a great gig—whether you’re looking for something on campus, in the city, or even remote. Here are some of the best ways to find part-time jobs in Gainesville:
- UF Career Connections Center: This is your #1 go-to if you’re studying at the University of Florida. Located right on campus, the Career Connections Center helps students find a wide range of jobs—from on-campus assistant roles to internships with local businesses.
- Online Job Portals: Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Snagajob feature hundreds of part-time jobs in Gainesville. Whether you’re looking to work as a barista, tutor, retail associate, or even a remote assistant, there’s something for everyone. Use filters like “part-time student” or “flexible hours” to find what suits your schedule.
- Networking on Campus: Never underestimate the power of word-of-mouth! Talk to your professors, teaching assistants, and even classmates—they might know of openings on campus or within the Gainesville community.
- Social Media & Student Forums: Facebook groups or local Reddit threads often have job postings from residents or businesses looking to hire students. These platforms also give you a real-time feel of the work environment through student reviews and comments.
On-Campus Part-Time Jobs at the University of Florida
If you want to earn money while staying close to your lectures, the University of Florida (UF) offers some of the best on-campus part-time jobs—designed specifically for students. These roles are not just flexible but also help you gain practical work experience right within your academic environment. Plus, it’s super convenient if you’re living in student housing in Gainesville, as you’re just a short walk from your job! Here are some popular on-campus job options near University of Florida:
- Student Assistant Roles: These positions are ideal if you’re looking for a low-stress role with consistent hours. Many departments across campus—such as the Fisher School of Accounting, Student Affairs, and IT Services—hire student assistants to manage front desks, answer phones, assist with filing, and help with admin tasks. These roles usually pay between $11–$14 per hour.
- UF Dining Services: Retail and food service jobs on campus (like working at the UF dining hall) are also in high demand. These jobs typically pay around $11–$13/hour and come with meal discounts, flexible shifts, and a great opportunity to meet other students.
- UF RecSports & Fitness Centers: Into fitness or sports? RecSports often hires student employees as front desk staff, lifeguards, referees, or group fitness instructors at facilities like Southwest Recreation Center. Not only are these jobs fun and active, but they also often come with a free gym membership as a p
Best Off-Campus Part-Time Jobs for Students Near University of Florida
Apart from on-campus jobs, students who are looking to earn extra cash while exploring Gainesville beyond the classroom can go for off-campus part-time jobs. They offer students more flexibility, variety, and a chance to engage with the local community. These roles are especially convenient for student housing in Gainesville near key areas like Midtown, Downtown, or Butler Plaza. Here are some of the best off-campus job opportunities around the University of Florida:
- Food Service & Hospitality: Gainesville’s food scene thrives thanks to its buzzing student population. Restaurants, cafes, and fast-food joints near Midtown, Archer Road, and Downtown Gainesville are always on the lookout for part-time help. You can expect to earn around $11–$15 per hour, depending on tips and the establishment.
- Retail Jobs in Butler Plaza & Oaks Mall: Gainesville’s shopping hubs such as Butler Plaza and The Oaks Mall are home to big brands like Target, H&M, Best Buy, Publix, and Sephora—all of which regularly hire part-time staff. These jobs pay an average of $12–$14 per hour and often come with employee discounts.
- Academic Tutoring & Test Prep: If you’re acing your classes or have a knack for explaining tough concepts, tutoring is a rewarding and flexible job option. Subjects in high demand include math, science, English, SAT/ACT prep, and even college-level courses like biology or economics. Tutors typically earn $15–$25 per hour, depending on experience and subject.
What’s the Average Pay for Student Jobs in Gainesville?
If you’re considering a part-time job while studying at the University of Florida, one of the most important questions is—how much can you actually earn? The great news is that Gainesville offers a broad range of student jobs with decent hourly pay, especially when compared to other student cities in Florida.
- On-Campus Jobs: The University of Florida offers various student employment roles such as office assistants, library staff, and event support. As of 2025, the minimum wage for student assistants is $8.65/hour, but certain specialized positions may offer slightly higher rates depending on responsibilities and department funding.
- Off-Campus Jobs: The average hourly wage for part-time student jobs in Gainesville is approximately $14.92 as of March 2025. Jobs in customer service, food delivery, or tutoring tend to offer higher hourly rates—some even up to $20/hour for those with experience or niche skills.
Where Do Students Doing Part-Time Jobs in Gainesville Live?
Balancing work, study, and personal life becomes much easier when your accommodation suits your schedule. Whether you’re working late shifts or juggling classes with a tutoring job, where you live in Gainesville plays a big role in your student experience. Following are the options of student housing in Gainesville:
- On-Campus Housing: Many students working on-campus opt to live in University of Florida residence halls, such as Beaty Towers or Jennings Hall. These provide easy access to job sites, dining, and classes—all within walking distance. If you land a campus job, this proximity can save you both time and commuting costs.
- Off-Campus Housing: A large number of students prefer off-campus apartments or shared student housing in Gainesville, especially in areas like Midtown, Sorority Row, or Archer Road. These spots are not only close to popular job hubs but also offer flexibility in lease terms and privacy.
Conclusion
Getting a part-time job in Gainesville isn’t just about earning money—it’s about building skills, meeting new people, and making your university life more manageable (and fun!). And remember, where you live matters too! Choosing the right student apartments in Gainesville can make juggling work, classes, and campus life so much easier. So go ahead—explore your options, polish that resume, and grab those opportunities waiting just around the corner from UF.