I still remember the first time I started looking for part time jobs in Derby. I was fresh out of college, short on cash, and eager to find something flexible that would let me earn money while still giving me time for my hobbies. At the time, I didn’t really know what kind of opportunities were out there—I just knew I needed something that fit around my life, not the other way around.
Fast forward to today, and I’ve had my fair share of experiences working in cafés, retail shops, and even a temporary role at a call centre. Each one taught me something new—not just about the job itself, but about people, patience, and balancing work with personal life.
If you’re considering part time work in Derby, whether you’re a student, a parent, or just someone looking for a side hustle, let me walk you through what I’ve learned along the way.
Why Choose Part Time Jobs in Derby?
Derby is a great city for part time work. It’s got a mix of opportunities across industries, from retail in the bustling intu Derby shopping centre, to hospitality in local cafés and restaurants, to flexible warehouse jobs that often pay weekly.
Here are a few reasons why I think part time work here is worth considering:
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Flexibility: Many employers in Derby understand that students and parents need adaptable schedules.
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Variety: You’ll find options in hospitality, retail, healthcare, delivery, and admin roles.
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Extra income: Whether it’s saving for a holiday, paying off bills, or just having some extra cash, part time jobs are a practical solution.
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Skill building: Even short-term or part time roles can teach you transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and time management.
Types of Part Time Jobs in Derby
When I was searching, I noticed that the job market in Derby catered to lots of different lifestyles. Here are some of the most common categories:
1. Retail Jobs
Think of high-street shops like Primark, Marks & Spencer, or JD Sports. These roles are great if you like talking to people and being on your feet. I worked at a clothing store for six months, and while folding jeans endlessly wasn’t glamorous, I loved the buzz of busy weekends.
2. Hospitality and Catering
Restaurants, pubs, and cafés are always looking for part time staff. Derby has a thriving food scene, especially around Friar Gate. I once did a stint at a local café—early mornings meant coffee-fueled shifts, but the tips and friendly atmosphere made it worthwhile.
3. Call Centres and Customer Service
Several companies in Derby recruit for part time customer support staff. If you’re good with people and don’t mind being on the phone, this can be a stable choice. The upside? Indoor work and often predictable schedules.
4. Warehousing and Logistics
With Derby’s strong links to nearby distribution hubs, part time warehouse jobs are always in demand. They’re physically demanding, but they usually offer night shifts or flexible hours, which is great for students or anyone needing to work around another commitment.
5. Seasonal Work
Don’t forget seasonal roles—especially around Christmas. Retailers, delivery companies, and event venues take on extra staff. One of my best part time jobs in Derby was helping with a Christmas market stall. The festive vibes made it fun, and I earned enough to cover my holiday expenses.
My Personal Tips for Finding Part Time Work in Derby
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few lessons that might save you some time:
Tip 1: Walk In and Ask
I know online applications are convenient, but some of the best jobs I’ve had came from just walking into a café or shop, handing in my CV, and asking if they were hiring. It shows confidence and initiative.
Tip 2: Use Local Job Boards
Websites like Indeed or Reed are great, but don’t underestimate local Facebook groups and community boards. I once found a flexible admin role posted in a Derby student group—something I would have missed otherwise.
Tip 3: Tailor Your CV
Don’t just send the same CV everywhere. If you’re applying to retail, highlight customer service skills. For hospitality, focus on teamwork and adaptability. Employers notice when you’ve made the effort.
Tip 4: Be Honest About Your Availability
It’s tempting to say “I’m flexible” just to land the job, but if you can’t realistically do certain hours, be upfront. It saves awkward conversations later.
Balancing Part Time Jobs with Life
One of the biggest challenges I faced was balancing work with studies and social life. There were times I took on too many shifts and ended up exhausted, especially during exam season. If I could go back, I’d remind myself that part time work should support your life, not take it over.
A good rule of thumb? Don’t let your part time hours exceed what you can manage comfortably. For me, that sweet spot was about 15–20 hours per week. Enough to earn money, but not so much that I felt like I was constantly working.
Where to Look for Part Time Jobs in Derby
Here are a few places I’ve personally found helpful:
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Indeed & Reed – Standard job boards with filters for “part time Derby.”
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Gumtree Derby – Sometimes has hidden gems like casual weekend work.
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Local businesses – Cafés, pubs, and shops often advertise vacancies on their windows.
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University job shops – If you’re a student, Derby Uni’s job board is brilliant for finding flexible opportunities.
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Recruitment agencies – They often need temp staff, which can lead to longer-term part time roles.
Final Thoughts on Part Time Jobs in Derby
Looking back, every part time job I’ve had in Derby shaped me in some way. From learning patience while serving coffee to handling pressure in retail queues, these roles gave me more confidence than I expected.
If you’re starting your own search, don’t feel overwhelmed. Start small, apply widely, and don’t be afraid to say yes to something new—you never know where it might lead.
