If you are looking for a job while you are in college, you don’t necessarily have to take any old crappy job just to make extra money. Today, there are many opportunities available to students, and many jobs even come with benefits. You just have to know what you want, and then find the companies that offer the benefits you want. Don’t expect too much, since you are likely going to be a part-time employee. But, there are some benefits you should be looking for when you are hunting for a part-time job. Let’s take a look at the most important benefits for working students.- Paid Time Off – Whether it is vacation time or sick time, you should look for a position that offers paid time off. This may not be possible if you are strictly a summer employee, but if you continue to work once you are back in school, you will be on the payroll long enough to qualify for vacation and sick time, as well as other paid days off.
- Retirement Investments – It is never too early to start planning your retirement. In fact, the sooner you start saving, the earlier you may be able to retire. Look for companies that offer a 401K or other type of retirement savings plan. You contribute a certain amount, and your employer will match your contribution (to a certain amount).
- Health Benefits – One of the most important benefits for many people is to have a health plan. This pays for a portion of medical expenses, including prescriptions, which can often be unaffordable for college students who have no access to medical insurance. But, not all employers offer the same plans. Look for companies that have good plans with lower deductibles.
- Outplacement Services – Look for a company that provides outplacement services. These are services that are hired by companies when they have lay-offs, to help laid-off employees transition and find new jobs. If you have been a good employee, but the company no longer has need of your services, they will often go out of their way to help you find a new position.
- Disability Insurance – This goes along with the health benefits, and it is a very important benefit to look for when applying for work. If anything happens that you are injured or sick and unable to work, this type of insurance can come in pretty handy. Some companies pay the full premiums, while others pay a portion and you pay the rest.
- Medical and Family Leave – We never plan to have medical or family emergencies, but they happen, and we have no control when they do happen. Look for companies that understand this, and that offer both medical and family leave. This can include leave for serious health issues, caring for an ailing parent or child, childbirth and childcare, etc.
- Tuition Reimbursement – If you are looking for ways to pay for your education that won’t leave you with thousands of dollars’ worth of debt after graduation, look for employers that offer tuition reimbursement programs. Often, this is given if you are taking courses that are specific to your job, or that can help you to move up within the company.
- Expense Plan – Some companies offer an expense plan if you are going to be doing things for your job that you have to spend money on. For instance, if you are required to travel, your travel costs, meals, accommodations, etc. could be paid for. If you are working on the road, you will be able to claim mileage for your vehicle. Don’t take any job that expects you to pay for company-related expenses.
