Student Employment

On-Campus Students

Student Employment Opportunities available to you!

Work is another way to keep college affordable. Our “No Friday Classes” policy allows time for students to earn money during the semester. Monday-Thursday classes end in the early afternoon, providing additional time for a job. Off-Campus employment opportunities are encouraged. Grace maintains relationships with many businesses in town—many within walking distance of campus—that love to employ Grace students.

A group of Grace students standing around in the Commons
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No Friday Classes

Our “No Friday Classes” policy allows time for students to earn money during the semester.

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Class Days End Early

Monday-Thursday classes end in the early afternoon, providing additional time for a job.

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Opportunities With Our Partners

Off-Campus employment opportunities are encouraged. Grace maintains relationships with many businesses in town—many within walking distance of campus—that love to employ Grace students.

On-Campus Opportunities

Working on campus is a convenient opportunity to earn money and stay immersed in the student community. Grace pays $250,000 annually to student employees.

To find out more about available Student Employment opportunities, contact the Human Resources Department.

On-Campus Employment Opportunities

Kahawa Cafe Barista

Reports to Coffee Shop Manager
Location Kahawa Cafe
Summary

As a Barista at Kahawa Coffee, you will be the face of our coffee shop, crafting high-quality beverages and providing excellent customer service. This role involves preparing drinks, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring a welcoming environment for students, faculty, and guests.

Key Responsibilities

Drink Preparation

  • Prepare and serve coffee, espresso drinks, teas, and other beverages to customer specifications.
  • Follow recipes and maintain consistency in drink quality.
  • Operate and maintain espresso machines, grinders, and brewing equipment.

Customer Service

  • Greet customers warmly and take their orders accurately.
  • Provide friendly and efficient service while maintaining a positive attitude.
  • Answer questions about menu items and make recommendations.

Cash Handling & Order Processing

  • Operate the point-of-sale (POS) system and handle transactions.
  • Process mobile and in-person orders efficiently.
  • Maintain accuracy in cash handling and register balancing.

Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Keep the coffee bar, seating area, and equipment clean and organized.
  • Restock supplies, including coffee beans, syrups, cups, and napkins.
  • Follow health and safety guidelines for food handling and sanitation.

Team Collaboration

  • Work closely with fellow baristas and supervisors to ensure smooth operations.
  • Assist in opening and closing duties as needed.
  • Communicate any equipment or supply needs to the manager.
Qualifications
  • Must be a current student or have flexible availability.
  • Strong customer service skills and a friendly demeanor.
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
  • Willingness to learn and follow coffee preparation techniques.
  • Prior experience in food service or coffee shops is a plus but not required.
Work Environment & Expectations
  • Must be able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 lbs.
  • Shifts may include mornings, afternoons, and occasional evenings.
  • A passion for coffee and creating a welcoming atmosphere is encouraged!

This position is perfect for someone who enjoys serving others, working in a team, and crafting great coffee. If you’re excited about coffee culture and providing excellent service, we’d love to have you on our team!

    Kitchen / Dining Hall Staff

    Location Dining Hall
    Department Food Services
    Position Type Part-Time, Student Worker
    Summary

    Grace Christian University is seeking dedicated and hardworking student workers to join our Dining Hall Kitchen Staff. This role plays an essential part in providing a welcoming, clean, and efficient dining experience for students, faculty, and staff. As a kitchen staff member, you will assist in meal preparation, maintain food stations, and uphold the cleanliness of the dining hall.

    Key Responsibilities
    • Assist with food preparation for daily meals.
    • Set up and break down the hotline, panini station, salad bar, dessert bar, and other food zones before and after service.
    • Maintain cleanliness by washing and putting away dishes.
    • Wipe down tables and keep the dining room clean throughout service.
    • Sweep and mop floors to maintain a sanitary environment.
    • Take out the trash and recycling as needed.
    • Follow all food safety and sanitation guidelines.
    • Work collaboratively with other student workers and staff to ensure smooth dining operations.
    Qualifications
    • Must be a current student at Grace Christian University.
    • Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
    • Strong work ethic and reliability.
    • Willingness to perform a variety of tasks, including cleaning and food preparation.
    • Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 25 lbs.
    Work Schedule & Benefits
    • Flexible scheduling to accommodate student class times.
    • Opportunities to develop teamwork and customer service skills.
    • Work in a supportive, faith-centered environment.

    If you’re looking for a hands-on, rewarding job that allows you to contribute to the Grace community, apply today!

    Leadership & Ministry Internship

    Reports to Campus Pastor
    Department Student Affairs
    Status Fall, Spring Semester
    Salary $1,000/semester
    Summary

    The Leadership & Ministry Intern (possibly 2) serves as a member of the Student Affairs department. The Intern will report directly to the Campus Pastor for guidance and direction weekly and must exhibit a track record of positive chapel attendance. A commitment of 10 hours a week will be asked of the candidate. Junior or senior status.

    Each semester of service in this role results in a paid position in the amount of $1000 and/or given academic credit. Preferred leadership in ministry majors, or special circumstances is expected.

    Essential Duties
    • Two to four hours of office desk work in the student affairs department space. This will include working on documents, scheduling, and being available for other staff and students. Each in turn must expect weekly mentoring meetings with the campus pastor. Communicating with chapel speakers and graphic designers.
    • Participating in weekly Chapel Committee meetings which include Grace’s chapel program by developing themes and programs as well as fostering student involvement is expected.
    • Chapel duties include but are not limited to: 
      • Building the student testimony schedule
      • Coordinating Formation Chapels with other Student Affairs members
      • Leading some Formation Chapels each semester
    • The ministry in leadership intern will serve along with the Campus Pastor as an advisor to the Student Government Spiritual Emphasis Committee.
    • Contribution to the Grace Christian University spiritual development of students (traditional) through coordination of curricular and co-curricular outcomes will take place, which includes facilitating and leading a small/chapel group. Encouraging and assisting students in their spiritual growth journey is part of the program.
    Qualifications
    • Acknowledge Jesus Christ as personal Lord and Savior and demonstrate personal maturity and godliness, growing in conformity to the image of Christ. 
    • The successful candidate will have a love for college students and be energized by their growth and development.
    • Judgment – Sound decision making, prioritizing skills, prompt follow up, and the ability to maintain a high degree of confidentiality are key elements.  
    • He/she must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 
    • Adhere to the policies recorded in the Student Handbook

      Library Legend (Info. Desk)

      Reports to University Librarian
      Department Library
      Status Part-time
      Location On-Campus
      Salary Min. – $12 hourly
      Hour Requirements Early mornings, late nights and weekends as needed
      Summary

      The Library Legend is a part time student position, with a maximum of 20 hours per week. It is an essential part of what the Library & Learning Center can accomplish, and serves students, faculty, and staff.

      A Legend is a student in good academic standing who possesses leadership qualities and professional communication skills, and who demonstrates care and compassion for their fellow students. A Legend is helpful, self-motivated to excellence, and expresses an interest in the LLC and its mission prior to applying for the position. The ideal candidate would have shown a predisposition to our core values: Hospitality, Integrity, Service, and Confidentiality.

      Preferred skills
      • Ability to communicate professionally in both written and verbal forms.
      • Ability to handle confidential information with the utmost discretion.
      • Detail-oriented
      • Self-driven to excellence
      • Leadership skills
      Essential Library Job Duties

      The following are job duties performed between 8:00am and 5:30pm Monday-Friday:

      • Opening the library and getting it ready for the day
      • Circulating library materials: checking books in and checking books out
      • Shelving returned books and materials
      • Checking, reading, and replying to general library emails
      • Assisting students with various reference, writing, and assignment questions
      • Tidying the Information Desk area
      • Monitoring student location and behavior
      • Keeping statistical records
      • Proctoring tests
      • Data entry
      • Light housekeeping duties
      • Any additional responsibilities that advance our mission and uphold our organizational values according to your supervisor.
      Essential Learning-Center Job Duties

      Legends who work after 5:30pm and on weekends will be responsible for all of the above, and:

      • Solo supervision and maintenance of the library building and its services
      • Supervision and correction of student behavior
      • Walk-In tutoring and coaching services
      • Closing the library and securing it for the night

      Marketing Internship

      Reports to Director of Marketing
      Department Marketing
      Status Student Worker; 10 hours per week
      Compensation $12.48 / hour; 12-week internship
      Summary

      Grace Christian University is seeking a student intern to assist with traditional and digital marketing and communications efforts. The ideal candidate would be obtaining an associate’s or bachelor's degree in the area of study and/or have a deep interest in advertising, business, marketing, communications, journalism, public relations, social media, photography, or videography. The intern in this role will assist Grace’s marketing department with all functions of marketing including content creation and managing social media in order to help increase enrollment on campus and online.

      Responsibilities
      • Production of video content on campus and throughout the West Michigan area featuring ‘student life’ and related activities (weekly).
      • Shooting/editing videos with direction from the Marketing Department.
      • Management of a Google Drive folder for ‘student life’ content and videos.
      • The ability to attend and participate in various student functions.
      • Producing and posting a minimum of two ‘video blogs’ per month on social media.
      • Writing and posting 1 Blog per month.
      • Assisting with all marketing functions.
      • Media placement in traditional and digital/online advertising options.
      Required Qualifications
      • Must be currently enrolled in an associate’s or bachelor’s degree program.
      • Must be eligible to work at least 10 hours per week (120 hours/semester) for the duration of the spring semester (September 2025-December 2025) with some flexibility on weekends.
      • Minimum of a Sophomore standing.
      • Must have foundational knowledge of operating social media platforms.

      If interested in the internship, drop off a resume to Ryan or Chris in the Marketing office; or send an email to Ryan at rhermann@gracechristian.edu

        Resident Assistant

        The Resident Assistant (RA) is a part-time staff member of the Community Life division of the Student Affairs department. He/she has a considerable degree of responsibility for the residence hall program, including spiritual formation, implementation of policies and regulations, modeling Christian character, as well as leading and attending activities which contribute to a Gospel-centered environment at  Grace Christian University.

        STUDENT LEARNING OBJECTIVES
        • Students will recognize and model Jesus’ example of servant leadership
        • Students will identify and practice a variety of crucial interpersonal skills including communication, teamwork, conflict resolution, and more.
        • Students will develop strategies for problem-solving, responding to challenges, and planning community-building events.
        RESPONSIBILITIES TO STUDENTS
        • Establish rapport and a personal relationship with each student in your housing area.
        • Support students’ spiritual needs and development.
        • Advise and counsel students within the limits of his/her training and capability on academic, personal, social, emotional, and spiritual matters.
        • Refer students in need of assistance to the proper person, office, or Supervisor.
        • Maintain an adequate study atmosphere in the residence hall and encourage academic interest.
        • Model proper maintenance of his/her personal living space and encourage other students to do the same.
        • Responsible for knowing policies listed in the Student Handbook and enforcing policies through warnings and fines.
        • Be a consistent presence on campus including nights and assigned weekends.
        ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES
        • Assist Supervisor as instructed.
        • Consistently attend meetings both individually with Supervisor and as an RA team.
        • Assist Supervisor in the awareness of and care for students’ needs and concerns.
        • Call and lead residence hall meetings and participate upon the request of the Supervisor.
        • Maintain awareness of residence hall conditions and report needs to Maintenance, IT and Housekeeping through Service Desk.
        • Actively promote and participate in campus activities to encourage student engagement.
        SPECIFIC DUTIES
        • Engage in spiritual leadership on campus by participating in chapel, leading men’s and women’s ministry events, and other initiatives as needed.
        • Opening and closing dorm doors during Open Res Hall hours each week.
        • Connect with each resident regularly and log meaningful conversations through CL Engage.
        • Be on-call one weekend a month and occasional evenings as needed.
        • Help with student check-out procedures at the end of Fall and Spring semesters. All RAs are on duty through the Sunday after graduation at 4:00 pm.
        • Be available for RA training and assist with semester preparations starting August 1, 2025
        RESPONSIBILITIES TO SELF
        • Maintain and continue to strive for improvement of his/her understanding of the Scriptures, relationship with God, and regular church attendance and involvement.
        • Utilize appropriate time off (with clearance of Supervisor) in order to maintain healthy boundaries and practice self-care.
        • Maintain an attitude of growth and set relevant, challenging goals; work with the Resident Director to achieve them.
        • Seek help from the Supervisor when he/she encounters a situation beyond his/her ability and experience.
        QUALIFICATIONS
        • Must have 12 – 14 hours to commit to the RA role each week not including other non-RA responsibilities (homework, other employment, sports, etc.)
        • He/she is a full-time student, actively pursuing 12 credits or more. 
        • Must be senior, junior or sophomore standing.
        • He/she should give evidence of possessing (or the potential for developing) a high degree of awareness and sensitivity to the needs and problems of others.
        • He/she should give evidence of personal growth and leadership potential.
        • He/she must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and/or 3.0 in their two most recent semesters
        • He/she must be willing to subject his/her other part-time work to the approval of the Dean of Students and/or Supervisor. (Generally, 15 hours per week on campus is acceptable.)
        • Must not be serving as a Student Government committee head during their time as an RA

         

          Student Activities in Athletics Internship

          Reports to AVP for Student Affairs & Athletics
          Department Student Affairs
          Status Fall, Spring Semester
          Salary $750.00 to $1,000/semester depending upon the agreement of work
          Summary

          The Student Activities in Athletics Intern (possibly 2) serves as a member of the Student Affairs department. The Intern will report directly to the AVP for Student Affairs and Athletics  for guidance and direction weekly and must exhibit a track record of positive communication, organization and activity in the areas that connect Student Activities and Athletics. A commitment of 7-10 hours a week will be asked of the candidate. 

          Each semester of service in this role results in a paid position in the amount of $1000 and/or given academic credit. All student majors are welcome to apply, at any level.

          Essential Duties
          • One-two hours of office desk work in the student affairs department space/athletic office space. This will include working on documents, scheduling, and being available for other staff and students. Each in turn must expect weekly/biweekly mentoring meetings with the AVP for Student Affairs. . Communicating with chapel communication team, graphic designer, athletic coaches and administration, etc.
          • Participating in weekly chapel experiences and sharing important information with the student body through slides on the screen in chapel, digi signs and from the stage. .
          • Building a communication schedule for intramurals and intercollegiate athletic events on campus. 
          • Building, advertising and implementing an intramural schedule. 
          • Contribution to the Grace Christian University spiritual development of student athletes through our Rooted program as needed.
          • Work with our athletic administration including any GA interns who are implementing intramurals or home athletic events. 
          • Leading student sections through building a team of individual leaders. 
          • Lead/manage half time events during home games. 
          • Any additional responsibilities that advance the mission and uphold our organizational values according to your supervisor.
          Qualifications
          • Acknowledge Jesus Christ as personal Lord and Savior and demonstrate personal maturity and godliness, growing in conformity to the image of Christ. 
          • The successful candidate will have a love for college students and be energized by their growth and development.
          • Judgment – Sound decision making, prioritizing skills, prompt follow up, and the ability to maintain a high degree of confidentiality are key elements.  
          • He/she must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8 
          • Adhere to the policies recorded in the Student Handbook

            Student Ambassador

            Summary

            The Ambassador organization is an opportunity for you to serve others, learn professional skills, and proudly represent Grace Christian University. Your role is extremely important within the Enrollment Office. Enrollment Advisors depend on you to form connections with prospective students, help out with office work, and help with events. Without your involvement, our office would not be able to accomplish as much. You are valuable members of the office! 

            Learning Outcomes
            • Develop a thorough understanding of the enrollment process at Grace and the different stages students go through
            • Effectively represent Grace in a variety of settings
            • Work effectively within an office setting (excellent phone calls, appropriate writing, timeliness, communication with supervisor, and self-initiative)
            Core Values 

            Bible Centered 
            At Grace Christian University, all degrees stand on a Biblical core. Each student takes 30 credits of Bible and Theology in order to understand the truth of Scripture and relate it to his or her field of study.

            Grace Theology 
            Grace Christian University holds to the fundamental beliefs of all evangelicals and seeks to equip students with these essential truths of the Bible (such as…the trinity, the deity of Christ, total depravity, and salvation by grace through faith).

            Ministry Focused 
            Grace desires for students to apply what they are learning in the classroom outside the walls of the institution. Each student participates in ministry as part of their classes. We currently have students serving across West Michigan in numerous capacities.

            Transformational Relationships 
            As a University, we care about students developing close relationships with their peers, staf , faculty, and ultimately, Jesus Christ. The goal of the events and activities planned on campus is to create a community in which students grow together and impact each other’s lives.

            How The Learning Outcomes & Core Values Interact

            As a member of the Ambassador team, it is not only your responsibility to know the Core Values, but it is our hope that you display these values through your work here in Enrollment. As a part of the Enrollment team, you are the first people prospective students form relationships with. You can show the value of transformational relationships to future students by caring about their needs, specific concerns, and interests. As you work events, give tours, and answer questions for students and their families, you are not only serving the college, but also serving families who are making big decisions and facing significant transitions in their lives. This is a part of your ministry here as students of Grace Christian University. Furthermore, you can display Biblical truths and our theological stances as you act in grace, love, and patience towards your fellow co-workers, prospective students, and your supervisors. Your work conduct and Christ-like representation reflect the truths we teach as a College. We appreciate the work that you do for Enrollment and we are excited to see the personal and professional growth that this opportunity brings you.

            Grace Christian University Mission Statement

            Graduating courageous ambassador for Christ who make an eternal impace wherever they go.

            Enrollment Office Mission Statement

            Authentically reflecting our community as we GUIDE prospective students on their journey towards Grace Christian University.

            Guide – Lead – Serve

            Student Ambassador Description

            A Student Ambassador represents Grace Christian University through responsibilities delegated by the Undergraduate Enrollment Office. He or she is expected to act professionally, communicate clearly, build relationships, and assist in the efficiency and organization of the office. Meeting an ambassador could be one of the only student interactions visitors have during their experience with campus. This places a large responsibility on the ambassador to make a good impression for the University. As an ambassador, you will serve in 2 – 3 of the following functions based on the reports of your application and the office’s need.

            Scheduling

            The ambassador will be scheduled for designated times during the week. It is their responsibility to have shifts covered if they are unable to make them.

            Functions

            Calling
            As an Ambassador you may be expected to have an evening shift during peak seasons dedicated to calling. These calls will be made to prospective students to gauge their interest in the college or notify them of deadlines.

            Tour Guide
            Ambassadors will be responsible for giving tours to prospective students and their families. Tours might also include other constituents of the college such as alumni, pastors, and high school counselors. Tours require personal engagement, such as being able to share your experiences and stories, as well as, knowledge of Grace’s history and offerings.

            Speaking Engagements
            Ambassadors will be expected to share their personal experiences and stories related to being a Grace student during various events throughout the year.

            Such speaking engagements could include but are not limited to:

            • Student panels
            • Engaging outside constituents (pastors, counselors, parents, alumni, etc.)
            • Speaking at Enrollment Visits (high schools, churches, partnering organizations)

            Administrative Office Work
            Ambassadors will carry out office responsibilities such as mailings, constructing promotional items, assisting in operational functions, and keying data. Projects will be delegated by the Enrollment Office Team based on need. 

            Lunch Hosting
            Ambassadors will host prospective students and their families during lunch. This includes assisting families in navigating the dining hall, eating with the family, and engaging them with other students. In addition, Ambassadors will sit with visiting families from our Grace All Access visit days.

            Special Event Support
            The Enrollment Office participates in special events throughout the semester. Ambassadors may help with responsibilities such as registration, set up/tear down, welcoming visitors, etc.

            Requirements
            • Sophomore to Senior Standing as of FA24
            • Good public speaking skills (able to articulate clearly to a diverse group of constituents)
            • Able to be scheduled for 5 or more hours a week
            • Able to work 4 hours shifts, over lunch, and some evenings and weekends
            • Attend monthly update meetings
            Compensation
            • Hourly wages
            • Grace Tour Guide Apparel and Nametag

            Student Maintenance Worker

            Reports to Student Maintenance Supervisor / Facilities Manager
            Department Facilities Maintenance
            Summary

            The Student Maintenance Worker is responsible for assisting in the upkeep, repair, and cleanliness of the campus. This role involves a variety of tasks, including general maintenance, repairs, and cleaning to ensure a safe and functional environment for students, faculty, and staff.

            Key Responsibilities

            General Maintenance & Repairs

            • Perform minor electrical and plumbing repairs.
            • Patch and paint drywall as needed.
            • Assist with campus upkeep, fixing broken items as they arise.

            Groundskeeping

            • Snow plowing, shoveling, and salting walkways during winter.
            • Mowing lawns and string trimming to maintain campus landscaping.

            Cleaning & Sanitation

            • Sweep, mop, and vacuum floors.
            • Clean sinks, restrooms, and common areas.
            • Ensure restrooms are stocked with toilet paper, paper towels, and soap.
            • Remove trash and recycling from designated areas.

            Additional Duties

            • Assist with event setup and teardown as needed.
            • Report larger maintenance issues to supervisors.
            • Follow safety guidelines and procedures while performing tasks.
            Qualifications
            • Must be a current student.
            • Ability to perform physical labor, including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods.
            • Willingness to work in various weather conditions.
            • Dependable and able to follow instructions.
            • Prior experience in maintenance, cleaning, or groundskeeping is a plus but not required.
            Supervision & Structure
            • This position reports to the Student Maintenance Supervisor and Facilities Manager.
            • Student Supervisors oversee daily tasks and ensure work is completed efficiently.

            This is a hands-on role that keeps the campus running smoothly by fixing what breaks and cleaning what gets dirty. If you enjoy working in a team environment and taking on a variety of tasks, this position is for you!

            Off-Campus Opportunities

            Working off campus is encouraged to help students find their path to an affordable education.  Many options are near campus, others are available throughout Grand Rapids and the West Michigan area.

            • J&H Convenience Stores
            • Chick-fil-A
            • Flowerland
            • Biggby Coffee
            • McDonalds
            • Wesco
            • Potter’s House – Tutoring
              (Federal Work Study)

            To learn more, contact Student Services.

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