Student jobs in catering: tips and good deals

By The Editorial Team | Published on July 17, 2025

Working in catering is one of the most popular choices for students in France and Canada. According to an INSEE study, nearly 1 in 5 students holds a student server job during their studies. This sector offers many advantages: flexible hours, student tips, a dynamic atmosphere, and valuable catering experience for a CV.

20%
of students work in catering
200k
positions available each year
$50-600
in tips per week

Why choose catering as a student job?

⏰

Flexible hours

Catering offers varied schedules: lunch service, dinner, weekends, or extras during events. This allows students to adapt their work schedule to their classes and exams. According to Pôle Emploi, 65% of students choose flexible catering hours for this reason.

📈

A sector hiring all year round

With more than 200,000 positions available each year in France (source: UMIH), catering is a sector that does not know crisis. Offers to find a student job are numerous, especially in big cities and tourist areas.

💰

Tips and benefits

In addition to salary, students can benefit from tips, free meals, and sometimes advantages such as flexible hours or end-of-season bonuses. On average, a student server can earn between 50 and 100 euros in tips per week.

🎯

Valuable experience on the CV

Employers appreciate candidates who have already worked in catering. It proves their ability to manage stress, work in a team, and be punctual. According to a RegionsJob survey, 72% of recruiters consider catering experience an asset.

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Types of student jobs in catering

Waiter/Waitress the most common position, ideal for developing interpersonal skills and speed
Kitchen assistant perfect for those who like to work behind the scenes and learn the basics of cooking
Dishwasher a job accessible without experience, often with irregular hours
Bartender for students comfortable with service and festive atmosphere
Cashier in fast food or chains, for those who enjoy customer contact

Tips for finding a student job in catering

1

Prepare a simple and effective CV

Highlight your motivation, availability, and any experience, even associative. A clear CV and a smiling photo make a difference.

2

Target nearby establishments

This will save you long travel times and make managing your schedule easier.

3

Apply in person

In catering, direct contact is often appreciated. Don't hesitate to present yourself directly with your CV.

4

Use specialized platforms

Sites like L'Hôtellerie Restauration, Indeed, Jobresto, or local Facebook groups are full of offers for students.

5

Be flexible and open

Accept to start with extras or replacements. This can lead to a more stable contract later.

✅

Good tips to balance studies and student job

  • Organize your schedule: Use a planner to note your class and work hours. Plan rest periods to avoid fatigue.
  • Communicate with your employer: Be transparent about your availability, especially during exam periods.
  • Take advantage of student benefits: Some restaurants offer contracts adapted to students, with reduced hours during exams.
  • Think about safety: Prefer nearby establishments or those accessible by public transport, especially for evening shifts.
⚠️

Pitfalls to avoid

Overwork

Do not accumulate too many hours, risking harm to your studies. Legislation limits student working time to 964 hours per year in France.

Undeclared contracts

Always demand a work contract to be covered in case of accident and to benefit from your rights.

Neglecting studies

The student catering job should remain a complement, not a barrier to academic success.

💬

Testimonial

"I worked as a waitress for two years alongside my studies. I learned to manage my stress, be organized, and communicate better. Today, this experience helps me in all my internships and interviews!"
— Clara, law degree student

Conclusion

The student job in catering is an excellent opportunity to earn money, gain experience, and develop useful student job tips for the future. With a bit of organization and motivation, it is quite possible to balance studies and work in this dynamic sector.