17 Best Jobs for International Students (Sydney 2024)

Studying overseas is an exciting adventure, especially in Sydney. While pursuing your education in a foreign country on a student visa is a rewarding experience, managing your finances is a crucial aspect of student life.

A balance between academics and employment ensures you can cover your living expenses, engage with the local community, build lasting friendships and gain valuable work experience.

The Australian economy (and particularly Sydney’s job market) is diverse and welcoming to international students, providing many employment options that cater to various schedules and skillsets.

List of Sydney Jobs for International Students

To help you make the most of your time in Sydney, we’ve compiled a list of the 17 best jobs for international students in 2023, complete with average wages to give you an idea of your earning potential.

We hope it’ll help you on your job search!

1. Security Guard

Average wage: $33-$35 per hour

Working as a security guard in Sydney can be a valuable job opportunity for international students. The role often offers flexible working hours, making it suitable for those who need to adjust their work schedule around their classes and study commitments.

Security guards play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of various establishments, such as universities, shopping centers, and events.

Responsibilities:

• Monitor surveillance systems to ensure the safety of premises.
• Patrol designated areas, maintaining a visible and vigilant presence. 
• Respond promptly to security incidents and alarms.
• Enforce security protocols and regulations.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues and report any suspicious activities.
• Assist in emergency situations, such as evacuations or medical incidents. 
• Provide a high level of customer service to visitors and staff.
• Complete detailed incident reports when necessary.

2. Cleaner

Average wage: $28-$34 per hour

Cleaner student jobs in Sydney are in constant demand, providing a reliable source of income for international students. Whether you work in offices, hotels, or residential areas, cleaning jobs offer flexible hours per fortnight, allowing you to balance your job with your academic responsibilities.

While it may not be the most glamorous job, it offers consistent pay per month or fortnight and an opportunity to work independently or as part of a team.

It also allows you to develop time-management skills and an eye for detail, attributes that can benefit you in various aspects of your life.

Responsibilities:

• Perform cleaning tasks to maintain a clean and hygienic environment. 
• Dust, sweep, mop, vacuum, and sanitise designated areas.
• Empty trash containers and dispose of waste materials properly.
• Clean and restock restrooms with supplies.
• Report any maintenance issues or equipment malfunctions.
• Adhere to cleaning schedules and safety protocols.
• Work independently or as part of a cleaning team. 
• Maintain attention to detail to ensure quality cleaning results.

3. Laborer (Construction Industry)

Average wage: $35-$50 per hour

Labourer roles are another excellent option for international students looking to earn a competitive income while staying physically active. Sydney’s job market offers opportunities in construction, landscaping, and general maintenance, where you can put your energy and strength to good use.

While physical labor is a significant component of these student jobs, they can be financially rewarding.

Responsibilities:

• Perform physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, and operating equipment. 
• Assist in construction projects, including building and renovation tasks. 
• Prepare construction sites by cleaning and clearing debris.
• Operate power tools and machinery under supervision.
• Follow safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective gear.
• Work effectively as part of a laborer team.
• Complete assigned tasks efficiently and accurately.
• Report any workplace hazards or incidents promptly.

3. Bartender

Average wage: $30-$32 per hour

Working as a bartender in Sydney can be an enjoyable and social student job, offering opportunities for interaction and engagement with patrons.

Besides the hourly wage, bartenders can receive tips, which can significantly boost their income, especially in busy establishments. (Although, note that tipping is not custom in Australia)

This role allows you to learn mixology skills, enhance your customer service abilities and be a part of the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and serve a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Interact with customers, take orders, and provide recommendations.
• Ensure compliance with alcohol serving regulations and age restrictions. 
• Maintain cleanliness and organisation of the bar area.
• Collect payments and handle cash transactions accurately.
• Monitor bar inventory and reorder supplies as needed.
• Create and serve cocktails with creativity and precision.
• Respond to customer inquiries and resolve any issues or complaints.

4. Barista

Average wage: $28-$32 per hour

For coffee enthusiasts, becoming a barista might be the ideal student job in Sydney. The city’s thriving cafe culture provides numerous opportunities for employment in this role. 

Crafting the perfect cup of coffee and creating latte art can be both an art form and a source of pride, allowing you to showcase your creativity and attention to detail.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and serve coffee, espresso and other beverages.
• Operate espresso machines and coffee grinders.
• Provide excellent customer service, taking orders and offering menu suggestions.
• Maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the coffee station.
• Prepare and serve pastries and snacks.
• Handle cash transactions and process payments accurately.
• Create latte art and personalised coffee orders.
• Interact with customers in a friendly and engaging manner.

5. Personal Trainer

Average wage: $38-$42 per hour

If you have a passion for fitness and hold certification as a personal trainer, you can pursue a rewarding career in Sydney. Personal trainers help individuals achieve their fitness and health objectives while earning a competitive wage.

The flexibility of scheduling client appointments can be particularly appealing for students managing their study commitments.

This role also allows you to share your fitness expertise and make a positive impact on the well-being of others.

Responsibilities:

• Design and implement customised fitness programs for clients.
• Conduct fitness assessments and track client progress.
• Provide guidance on exercise techniques and proper form.
• Motivate and inspire clients to achieve their fitness goals.
• Offer nutritional advice and dietary recommendations.
• Schedule and manage client appointments.
• Stay up-to-date with fitness trends and industry knowledge.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of clients during workouts.

7. Dog Walker

Average wage: $27-$28 per hour

For dog lovers, working as a dog walker in Sydney offers a fulfilling job that combines outdoor activity with the companionship of furry friends.

The money, coupled with the joy of spending time with dogs, makes this a rewarding choice. This role allows you to enjoy the outdoors and contribute to the well-being of pets while earning money. 

It also offers flexible hours, accommodating your academic commitments.

Responsibilities:

• Walk dogs for clients, ensuring their exercise needs are met.
• Maintain control of dogs during walks, prioritising their safety.
• Clean up after dogs during walks and dispose of waste properly. 
• Communicate with pet owners about the dog’s behaviour and health. 
• Follow specific instructions regarding routes and care.
• Handle multiple dogs of various sizes and temperaments.
• Provide companionship and social interaction for the dogs.
• Ensure dogs are returned to their owners safely and securely.

8. Pet Sitter

Average wage: $24-$28 per hour

Pet sitting is another excellent option for animal enthusiasts in Sydney. This role allows you to earn money while taking care of pets, making it a rewarding and flexible job.

You’ll have the opportunity to spend quality time with various animals, from dogs and cats to birds and reptiles, all while ensuring their well-being.

Whether you’re looking to work part-time or take on more extended assignments, pet sitting provides a unique way to earn income while experiencing the joys of pet companionship.

Responsibilities:

• Care for pets in the absence of their owners.
• Provide food, water, and medication as per pet owners’ instructions. 
• Engage in playtime and offer companionship to pets.
•  Maintain a clean and safe environment for pets.
• Monitor the health and behaviour of the pets.
• Communicate with pet owners regarding any issues or concerns.
• Follow specific care routines and schedules.
• Ensure the security of the pet owner’s home.

9. Food Delivery Driver

Average wage: $30-$35 per hour

With the rise of food delivery apps like Uber Eats and Deliveroo, working as a food delivery driver has become a popular job for international students in Sydney.

This role offers flexibility in terms of working hours, allowing you to choose shifts that fit your academic schedule. 

It’s an excellent way to explore the city while earning money and providing a valuable service to hungry residents and visitors.

Responsibilities:

• Pick up food orders from restaurants or delivery hubs.
• Ensure orders are correctly packed and maintained during transit.
• Safely navigate the city to deliver orders to customers’ locations.
• Provide excellent customer service upon delivery.
• Handle cash transactions and process payments accurately.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the delivery vehicle.
• Follow delivery schedules and adhere to safety regulations.
• Communicate with customers regarding order status and delivery times.

10. Waiter / Waitress

Average wage:

Working as a waiter or waitress in Sydney can be a social and financially rewarding job, especially when considering tips. This role allows you to engage with customers from various backgrounds while earning money to support your studies and living expenses. 

The fast-paced nature of the restaurant industry can help you develop essential skills such as multitasking, communication, and teamwork, which are valuable in both your professional and personal life.

Responsibilities:

• Greet and seat restaurant patrons, providing menus and drink options. 
• Take customer orders and communicate them to the kitchen staff. 
• Serve food and beverages to tables in a timely and efficient manner. 
• Ensure customer satisfaction by addressing inquiries and resolving issues. 
• Handle cash and credit card payments, providing accurate change.
• Set up and clear tables, maintaining a clean dining area.
• Collaborate with kitchen staff to ensure order accuracy and timing.
• Work effectively as part of a restaurant team to provide exceptional service.

11. Retail Worker

Average wage: Varies by position

The retail sector in Sydney offers numerous job opportunities for international students, ranging from sales associates to cashiers.

While the average wage varies depending on the specific retail position and the employer, working in retail can provide you with valuable customer service experience and an understanding of sales operations.

Whether you’re interested in fashion, electronics, or any other retail category, these roles allow you to interact with customers, enhance your communication skills and gain insights into the world of retail management.

Responsibilities:

• Assist customers with inquiries and product selection.
• Operate cash registers and process sales transactions.
• Maintain a neat and organised sales floor.
• Stock shelves and replenish inventory as needed.
• Help set up displays and promotional materials.
• Handle customer returns and exchanges.
• Provide excellent customer service and product knowledge.
• Collaborate with team members to achieve sales targets.

12. Student Ambassadors

Average wage: $30-40 per hour (depends on university)

Some universities in Sydney hire international students as student ambassadors to represent their institutions and assist with various campus activities. While the wages for these positions may vary, they often come with flexible hours that can accommodate your class schedule.

Being a student ambassador allows you to immerse yourself in the university community, connect with fellow students, and positively influence prospective students’ decisions. 

Responsibilities:

• Represent the university at campus events and orientations.
• Assist prospective students with inquiries about courses and programs.
• Give campus tours to visitors and new students.
• Participate in student recruitment activities and information sessions. 
• Share personal experiences and insights about university life.
• Promote university events and initiatives on social media.
• Collaborate with university staff to enhance the student experience. 
• Provide a welcoming and informative environment for guests.

13. Language Tutors

Average wage: $20-$35

If you’re fluent in multiple languages, you can offer language tutoring services to other students or individuals looking to improve their language skills. Language tutors are in demand in Sydney’s multicultural environment, and the average hourly wage can be quite competitive.

Tutoring or working for an education provider allows you to share your language expertise, help others achieve their language goals, and earn money simultaneously.

It’s a rewarding way to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and contribute to their educational journey.

Responsibilities:

• Provide language tutoring sessions to individuals or small groups.
• Create customised lesson plans and materials.
• Assess students’ language proficiency and tailor instruction accordingly. 
• Offer guidance on grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary.
• Conduct conversational practice sessions to improve fluency.
• Track student progress and provide feedback.
• Adapt teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles.
• Help students prepare for language proficiency exams.

14. Event Staff

Average wage: $30-$33 per hour

Working as event staff in Sydney offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in various events and performances across the city.

While the average wage depends on the specific event and your role, it’s an excellent way to earn money while experiencing the excitement of concerts, sports games, and cultural gatherings.

Whether you’re interested in entertainment, sports, or cultural events, this job provides an exciting and diverse work experience.

Responsibilities:

• Work as ticket takers, ushers, or event security personnel.
• Welcome and assist event attendees with entry and seating. 
• Check tickets and verify attendees’ credentials.
• Ensure a safe and orderly environment during events. 
• Direct guests to amenities, such as restrooms and concessions.
• Handle guest inquiries and provide event information.
• Respond to and manage crowd control as needed.
• Collaborate with event organizers and venue staff.

15. Administrative Assistant

Average wage: $27-$35 per hour

Admin assistant roles are prevalent in various industries (from financial services and law firms to insurance) and offer a stable income for international students in Sydney. These positions provide valuable experience in office management and organisation.

As an administrative assistant, you’ll perform tasks that keep the workplace running smoothly, such as managing communications, maintaining records, and assisting with administrative projects.

This role equips you with transferable skills that can benefit your future career while providing financial stability during your studies.

Responsibilities:

• Assist with administrative tasks such as data entry and filing.
• Manage phone calls, emails, and appointment scheduling.
• Prepare and proofread documents and reports.
• Coordinate meetings and assist in event planning.
• Maintain office supplies and equipment.
• Assist in organising and maintaining electronic and paper files. 
• Provide support to managers and team members.
• Ensure a high level of organisation and efficiency in the workplace.

16. Warehouse Assistant

Average wage: $28-$33 per hour

Warehouse assistant positions in Sydney offer a steady source of income for international students. This job involves various tasks related to the handling and storage of goods. Warehouse assistants play a vital role in ensuring that products are properly received, stored, and prepared for distribution.

This role provides insights into logistics, inventory management, and supply chain operations, which can be valuable knowledge for your future career endeavours.

It also offers a structured and dependable work environment while accommodating your academic commitments.

Responsibilities:

• Receive and inspect incoming shipments of goods.
• Unload, unpack and sort merchandise.
• Organise and store products in the warehouse.
• Assist with order picking and packing for shipment.
• Operate equipment such as forklifts or pallet jacks.
• Maintain cleanliness and safety in the warehouse.
• Monitor inventory levels and report shortages or damages.
• Collaborate with warehouse team members for efficient operations.

17. Kitchen Hand

Average wage: $25-$34 per hour

Working as a kitchen hand in Sydney can provide you with a valuable introduction to the culinary industry while earning a competitive hourly wage. This role is ideal for students interested in hospitality and culinary arts.

You’ll play a crucial part in supporting the kitchen team by assisting with food preparation, maintaining a clean and organised workspace, and ensuring that all equipment is in proper working condition.

The job also offers the opportunity to learn from experienced chefs and gain insights into the culinary world, which can be a valuable experience if you aspire to pursue a career in the food and beverage industry.

Responsibilities:

• Assist chefs and kitchen staff with food preparation tasks.
• Wash, peel, and chop vegetables and fruits.
• Clean and sanitise kitchen equipment and utensils.
• Maintain cleanliness and order in the kitchen area.
• Assist in food plating and presentation.
• Dispose of kitchen waste and manage recycling.
• Collaborate with kitchen staff to ensure smooth operations.
• Adhere to food safety and hygiene regulations.

Are you an International Student Looking for a Job in Sydney?

Whether you’re looking to cover living expenses, gain valuable work experience, or simply immerse yourself in the local culture, there’s a job tailored to your preferences and schedule.

Here are Some Places you Can Find Student Job Opportunities in Sydney:

• University career services: Most universities in Sydney have dedicated career services that can help students find part-time or casual jobs on and off-campus. 

• Online job portals: Websites like Seek, Indeed, and Gumtree are popular job search platforms where students can browse and apply for various job listings in Sydney.

• University job boards: Many universities maintain job boards specifically for students, listing on-campus and off-campus job opportunities. 

• Recruitment agencies: There are several recruitment agencies in Sydney that specialise in placing students. These agencies can help match students with suitable job opportunities.

• Networking: Networking within the university community and among fellow international students can often lead to job referrals and recommendations. 

• Job fairs: Attend job fairs and career expos organized by universities or the city to connect with potential employers and learn about job openings. 

• LinkedIn: Creating a professional LinkedIn profile can help students connect with potential employers, join industry groups, and explore job listings.

From the bustling nightlife of bartending to the enriching experiences of being a student ambassador, Sydney provides a diverse range of employment options that align with the needs and aspirations of international students.

Looking for a Spot to Stay?

Experience Australian living to the fullest with Living High Co-Living, where top-notch amenities are combined with reasonably priced housing. Begin your journey of luxury, convenience, and community by reserving your perfect spot right now!

Related Articles:

• 15 Best Affordable Gyms in Sydney (with Prices)
• 11 Best Affordable Colleges & Universities in Australia (for International Students)