Student Employment
Balancing work and school provides students with meaningful opportunities to extend their learning beyond the classroom. Many have secured positions that align closely with their academic focus, gaining practical skills and experiences that enhance both their studies and future career prospects. Our team supports students, families, and employers in navigating the hiring process, connecting students with part-time opportunities both on campus and in the community.
Why Work While in School?
- Earn income to help cover educational costs
- Build professional experience and strengthen your résumé
- Grow your network and meet other students
- Strengthen transferable abilities, like time management to boost, your career readiness
- Access professional growth opportunities that prepare you for your career
Federal Work Study
Federal Work-Study provides part-time employment while the student is enrolled in school to help pay their education expenses. Students must seek out and apply for work-study jobs at their school. The program encourages community service work and work related to the student’s course of study.
Learn more about the Federal Work Study Program
Student Employment
Even if you don’t have Federal Work-Study, you can still find jobs on campus. When searching, look for positions in Employment Opportunities that don’t list FWS or Work Study as a requirement—applications for Work Study jobs can’t be considered if you haven’t been awarded it.
Pay Rates
Regular student workers’ pay rate is determined by the position and the student’s experience. Your pay rate will be determined by Human Resources and communicated to you as part of your job offer.
First time Federal Work study employees will be paid at an hourly rate of $15.50 per hour. Returning Federal Work Study employees will be paid $16.75 per hour.
Students cannot work more than twenty hours per week during the academic period.
To determine the number of hours you may work for the semester, divide your Federal Work-Study amount by your hourly pay rate, and then by the number of weeks in the semester or the number of weeks during the semester that you wish to work. You are not to exceed your FASFA award.
Frequently Asked Questions
Go to the Employment Opportunities webpage -
Look for the section labeled Student Employment.
Check job descriptions:
- Federal Work Study (FWS) positions - you must have an FWS grant in your financial aid package to apply.
- Non-FWS positions - open to all students, regardless of financial aid status.
Students can work up to 20 hours a week while in classes. It is up to the student and supervisor to ensure you are not exceeding 20 hours a week. Additionally, students cannot work during scheduled class times. Make sure your supervisor is aware of your class schedule!
I-9 form verification
Human Resources will need to collect documentation to confirm your identity, in accordance with The Department of Homeland Security Guidelines.
Students must provide a document from Column A or a document from Column B and C.
You cannot begin working until the I-9 verification is complete.
Student workers are paid biweekly based on the hours worked during each pay period. You must submit your timecards and have them approved by your supervisor before the listed deadline. To receive your paycheck as quickly as possible, sign up for direct deposit through MyOCC. If you don’t enroll in direct deposit, your paycheck will be mailed to your home address—it cannot be held for pickup or sent to residence halls.
Whether you're exploring majors, looking for a job or internship, need resume and interview tips, or are ready to launch into your career... we're here to help you every step of the way.
We have the tools you need to take that next step, just email our team or call (315) 498-2585 and we'll answer any questions and help you through the process.
Visit Us
No matter where you are in your financial aid journey, we’re committed to helping you access the resources you need to support your education. Stop by the FASC during walk-in hours and let us help you navigate your financial aid process.
Please come in during walk-in hours. Limited appointments are also available.