Part-Time Jobs in Finland: A Student’s Guide to Flexible Work Opportunities

Balancing studies and work can be challenging, but part-time jobs in Finland allow students to earn while learning. While you can search for jobs on various listing platforms, staffing agencies offer an alternative by connecting students with employment opportunities that fit their schedules and skill sets.
How Staffing Companies Work in Finland
Staffing companies are a bit different from traditional job boards. When you apply to a staffing company, you’re not applying for one specific job. Instead, you’re applying to join their pool of available workers.
- Broad range of industries: They have connections with a wide variety of companies, so you can find opportunities in sectors like retail, hospitality (restaurants, hotels), cleaning, and construction. Many of these jobs don’t require fluent Finnish, making them accessible to international students.
- Your employer is the staffing company: When you get a job through an agency, you have an employment contract with the staffing company, not the client company where you’ll be working. This means the staffing company is responsible for paying your salary, providing holiday pay, and arranging occupational health care.
- Flexible work arrangements: Staffing companies specialize in temporary, seasonal, and part-time jobs. This is ideal for students who need flexible working hours to fit around their studies.
Why Use a Staffing Company?
For international students, using a staffing company can make the job search process much easier and more effective.
- Saves time: Instead of sifting through countless job ads, you can create one profile with a staffing company. They then match you with suitable jobs based on your skills, experience, and availability.
- Streamlined process: The application process is typically straightforward. Once you’re in their system, they handle most of the communication and paperwork, making it easy to start working quickly.
- Networking and experience: Temporary work is a fantastic way to gain valuable work experience in Finland, learn about Finnish work culture, and expand your professional network. It can often be a stepping stone to a permanent position.
In essence, staffing companies simplify the job-hunting process by acting as a bridge between students and employers, giving students a great way to enter the Finnish job market and earn income while they study.
Common Part-Time Jobs for Students in Finland
Students in Finland often engage in part-time work that offers flexibility and aligns with their academic commitments. Common roles include:
- Retail Positions: Working as cashiers or stock assistants in stores.
- Hospitality Jobs: Serving as waiters, bartenders, or kitchen staff in restaurants and cafes.
- Cleaning Services: Providing cleaning services in hotels, offices, or public spaces.
- Delivery Services: Working as couriers for companies like Wolt or Foodora.
- Tutoring: Offering academic tutoring in subjects like mathematics, languages, or science.
- Administrative Support: Assisting in offices with tasks like data entry or customer service.
These positions typically offer hourly wages ranging from €8 to €12, with evening and weekend shifts available to accommodate student schedules.
Leading Staffing Companies in Finland
Here are some well-known staffing agencies operating in Finland:
- Bolt.Works
- Barona – open jobs and growth solutions for companies
- Adecco – recruitment and personnel leasing
- Staffmax Oy
- Dobra Finland
- Job Nord
- Global Service Finland Oy
- GO ON
- Sihti – specialized in construction talent
- aTalent
- SOL
- N-Clean
- Biisoni
- Folka
- Staffpoint
- Duuri Tiimi – operating in Häme and Pirkanmaa
- SUNURA
Final Thoughts
Part-time employment in Finland offers students the opportunity to gain work experience, earn income, and develop skills that will be valuable in their future careers. Staffing agencies facilitate this process by connecting students with suitable job opportunities that fit their schedules and career aspirations.
If you’re a student in Finland looking for a part-time job, consider reaching out to these staffing agencies to explore available opportunities. Remember to tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your skills and flexibility, and don’t hesitate to ask about positions that align with your academic commitments.
For personalized support with your job search and career development, remember that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
HAMK Career Services
HAMK Career Services is here to support your career development through diverse cooperation and actions. We aim to bridge the gap between you and work life by facilitating conversations and building connections with employers, alumni, and other key stakeholders. We also recognize that community building and international competence are essential parts of your career journey—and we’re here to help you grow in both.