Student Consultant Jobs at Rutgers–New Brunswick
What we do
OIT maintains a network of 20 computer labs and print locales located across the Rutgers–New Brunswick campus. Each lab is staffed with student consultants who perform a number of tasks both to assist patrons and to maintain the daily operation of the lab.
The OIT Help Desk upholds the highest standard of service to University computer users via 833-OIT-HELP and email support. The Help Desk is charged with effectively resolving or referring computer-related problems, and ensuring the best possible service to the Rutgers community.
We also offer training opportunities to enhance our employees’ technical knowledge. The experience of working for OIT also provides an attractive addition to your resume and increases your qualifications to get a full-time job after graduation, regardless of your major or career path.
Job expectations
- Answer calls and provide in-person support for computing-related issues from the university community
- Desktop troubleshooting, both over the phone and in-person
- Printer maintenance such as changing toner cartridges and filling paper trays
- Gather hourly computer lab usage statistics
- Diagnose and report network issues
- Assist with a variety of team projects
- Effectively handling new and unusual situations
- Participating in ongoing training to learn more about the systems and software
- Ability to work on campus in multiple locations
What we're looking for
- Exemplary customer service
- Strong written and verbal communication
- Ability to explain complex concepts in written and verbal communication
- Excellent troubleshooting and analytical skills to solve issues quickly in a fast paced environment
- Energetic and enthusiastic about working with technologies
- Basic knowledge of software such as Microsoft Office, various web browsers, and the Adobe suite
- Basic knowledge of major operating systems such as Windows and Mac OSX
- Willingness to learn about new technologies
- Familiarity with networking hardware is a plus
- Rising sophomores and juniors preferred; must be a current student
Student IT Consultants start at $17/hour. Sound like the job for you?
(NetID login required)
“Working for OIT at Rutgers has not only honed my technical skills, but has enabled me to build confidence in communicating with others about technology — something undeniably useful to me as I trek forward in my career. I’ve also created long-lasting, meaningful friendships with my coworkers and, thus, truly enjoyed coming to nearly every shift I’ve worked with OIT.”
— Sabeen Rokerya, Class of 2019, Alumna
Questions about Applying?
How competitive is the application?
It is highly recommended that interested applicants apply early in order to increase their chances of being selected. Over 1000 students apply annually for these positions. After reviewing applications and conducting interviews, between 250-300 new student employees are selected to join our staff. Although preference is given to underclassmen, upperclassmen are still encouraged to apply.
What if I don't have any technical knowledge?
That’s okay! Our primary focus is with customer service. Technical knowledge is certainly a plus, but we have a robust support and training for consultants to keep up to date with the latest technologies.
How important is my availability?
While the OIT Help Desk and Labs operate primarily during standard business hours, there are still a variety of positions that cover almost all hours of the day. Staff members for these after hours shifts are always in high demand, so if you’re stuck with a semester of night classes or you’re a real night owl rest assured there’s a place for you at OIT.
More FAQs
Q: Is this job part of work study?
A: It is not. You apply to this job as you would for any regular job.
Q: Do I have to be a Computer Science or an IT major to work for OIT?
A: Nope! OIT accepts all majors and everyone is encouraged to apply. Through our training program, you will be taught the necessary skills for your position. Your willingness to learn and take direction is needed in order to do well.
Q: How flexible are the working hours?
A: The hours you put into OIT are very flexible. Student IT consultants can schedule to work anywhere between 8-30 hours a week, or up to 20 hours for international students. Shifts are available for early mornings, late nights and weekends.
Q: What does it mean to be a Consultant in Training (CIT)?
A: All student employees start out as a CIT. During your training, you will learn how to provide support over the telephone and in person along with our policies and general IT information. Training will be conducted over the summer. Promotion to consultant is dependent on your aptitude during training and your availability.
Q: What does it mean to be a Consultant?
A: A Consultant is someone who is promoted from the CIT position. Once promoted, Consultants do not need to reapply for employment in subsequent semesters, but will be expected to meet scheduling and training requirements. Student IT consultants provide phone and in-person IT support to the university community. Consultants work at the OIT Help Desk and Computer Labs.
Q: What is the starting rate for OIT?
A: OIT student employees start at $17 per hour. There are many opportunities for promotions which include higher pay rates.
Q: What kind of employee training can I expect?
A: Training will primarily consist of self-paced online modules and in-person training over the summer.
Q: What paperwork or information is needed to become an employee?
A: We will hold an onboarding meeting with you to enter your information into the Rutgers employee database and complete an I-9. If you already work for another Rutgers department, we will still need to enter your information so you can work for OIT. Please be sure you have the proper documents required for an I-9 with you: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents. We have found it most accessible for students to use their RUID or Driver’s License plus Social Security Card.
Q: What if I’m an international student?
A: If you are selected as a CIT, you will need to complete your international student paperwork in order to be employed. Students who are attending the university on an international student visa will need to present a passport and visa in addition to the other employment eligibility requirements. Details on the requirements can be found at the international student website.
Q: What are some of the promotional opportunities available?
A: Working as a student IT consultant can open many doors. There are several promotional tracks and specializations such as Level 2 Consultants and Level 3 Supervisors.