What is Student Employment?
The Student Employment Program provides experiential learning opportunities for students as they work.
A variety of student employment positions are available each year. Jobs exist through various
funding sources.
Some of the benefits of student employment include:
- Flexible Scheduling – Work hours are designed to fit around your class schedule.
- Time Management – Develop skills in balancing work, academics, and personal responsibilities
- Professional Connections – Build relationships with supervisors and mentors that can support your career growth.
- Real-World Experience – Gain valuable work experience to enhance your resume and develop new skills.
- Financial Support – Earn money to help cover college expenses and reduce reliance on loans.
- Career Exploration – Discover your strengths, interests, and potential career paths through hands-on experience.
Student Employment Funding Sources
Work-Study Programs
Work-Study is a need-based financial aid program that provides students with part-time job opportunities to help pay for educational expenses. Work-Study is not a grant; students must work to earn their awarded funds. Work-Study funds are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis each year and are not guaranteed.
- Federal Work-Study (FWS) – Funded by the federal government and available to students who demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
- State Work-Study (SWS) – Funded by Washington State and available to students who demonstrate financial need through the WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid).
Other Student Employment Funding Sources
- Athletic Funding (AWS) – This funding is awarded to student athletes through the Athletic Department. Check with your coach to see if you are eligible.
- Department-Specified Funds (IWS) – Various departments have funding to hire students. This type of funding is not based on financial need. It is available to students who do not qualify for financial aid, such as those in the Running Start Program or international students.
How Do I Become a Student Employee?
If you qualify for financial aid, the first step is to apply for financial aid.
- Complete the FAFSA® or the WASFA for the current academic year. If you are awarded Work-Study, you will receive an email invitation to the Student Employment Orientation at your preferred email in your ctcLink profile.
- Check your inbox and spam folder for the email.
- If it’s been more than two weeks since you were awarded but haven’t received the email, please fill out a Orientation Invitation Request form.
If you applied for financial aid but did not receive a Work-Study award:
- NOTE: The Waitlist for the 2025-2026 School Year will open on September 1st, 2025.
- The Financial Aid Department awards eligible students from the waitlist on a first-come, first-served basis.
- If you are awarded Work-Study, you will receive an email invitation to the Student Employment Orientation at your preferred email in your ctcLink profile.
If you do NOT qualify for financial aid:
- Most student employment jobs require a Federal or State Work-Study award. However, some departments such as Campus Security, Academic Coaching, ASG, MESA, and Running Start may have department-funded positions available.
- If you would like the opportunity to apply for one of these jobs, please fill out a Orientation Invitation Request form.
Student Employment Orientation
All students, regardless of the funding source, MUST attend the Student Employment Orientation before they are eligible to apply for jobs or begin working.
- The goals of the Student Employment Program
- Student rights and responsibilities
- The job search process
- Timesheets and payroll
- Your next steps