Student Employment
Work on or off Campus
Working on campus is a great way to earn money, gain real-world experience, and stay connected to the OCC community. OCC offers two types of student employment: Regular Student Employment and Federal Work-Study (FWS). Understanding the difference will help you find the opportunities that match your eligibility.
Whether you’re looking for your first job or building skills for your career, we’re here to help you find the right fit.
Types of Student Employment
Regular Student Employment
Regular Student Employment is open to eligible OCC students regardless of financial need. These positions are funded directly by OCC departments.
Student workers are paid hourly and work part-time, typically up to 20 hours per week depending on department needs.
Federal Work-Study (FWS)
Federal Work-Study is a financial-aid program that provides part-time jobs for students with demonstrated financial need. If you qualify for FWS through your FAFSA, you may apply for positions designated as “College Work-Study”.
Important notes about FWS:
- Being awarded FWS does not guarantee you a job — you must still apply and be selected.
- FWS jobs may be on or off campus.
- Your FWS award amount determines how many hours you may work.
- FWS jobs are often flexible and related to academic or career interests.
To confirm your FWS eligibility, contact Financial Aid.
How to Work on or off Campus
Step 1: Requirements
To work on or off campus in either employment category, you must:- Be a part-time OCC student (enrolled in at least 6 credit hours).
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
- Create a Handshake account, build out your profile, and upload your resume (if you have one; otherwise, see Step 3).
Step 2: Understand Which Opportunities You Qualify For
If you are FWS-eligible and seeking on-campus employment, look for positions on Handshake through "Oakland Community College – On-Campus Student Employment".FWS-eligible students can also seek employment off-campus by looking for opportunities on Handshake through "Oakland Community College".
If you are NOT FWS-eligible and seeking regular on-campus employment, search for positions on Handshake through "Oakland Community College – On-Campus Student Employment".
If you’re unsure of your FWS status, contact Financial Services or check your financial aid award in MyOCC.
Step 3: Create and Upload Resume
You can upload your resume on Handshake anytime before you apply.If you need assistance building your resume, please email Career Services or you can also utilize our free resume builder on JobScan.
Step 4: Explore and Apply For Available Positions
You can begin to search and apply for jobs on Handshake.Explore and Apply for On-Campus Employment
Explore and Apply for Off-Campus Employment
Step 5: After You Apply
If an OCC department is interested in hiring you:- The hiring manager will contact you through your OCC student email — check it regularly.
- If you accept the position, the hiring supervisor will notify the Student Employment team to begin the hiring process.
- You will receive instructions about onboarding, paperwork, and next steps.
More FWS Resources
Explore more helpful resources below.
For Employers
OCC and off-campus employers looking to hire OCC students should adhere to the following guidelines:
- Ensure job duties support student learning and development
- Provide clear schedules and expectations
- Approve electronic timesheets in a timely manner
- Adhere to Federal Work-Study regulations (if applicable)
To post for a position, create an account and get started with Handshake.
For OCC staff and faculty looking for information on hiring students or posting openings, you can learn more on Inside OCC.
Need More Help?
Use the quick guide below to understand the department that can best support you based on your needs:
Financial Aid
Can answer questions and help you understand whether you qualify for Federal Work-Study positions.
Human Resources
Oversees the hiring process and paperwork for on-campus student workers after being hired by OCC.
Career Services
Supports students with job placement, resume building, and interview skills for employment.
Contact Information
Email Career Services
Phone: (248) 232-4730
Service Hours:
Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Location:
Auburn Hills Campus
B Building - 1st floor