Am I Qualified?

Finding the right student job can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the system. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand how to search for jobs and how to read job descriptions to find positions you’re qualified for.

Search Using Job Functions (Job Levels)

When you search for jobs, you’ll notice that each posting is categorized into a Job Level (A, B, C, or D) . You can filter based on those levels using the "Job Functions" button. These levels help you quickly understand the qualifications needed and the corresponding pay.

Here’s what each level means:

  • Student Level A (Assistant)
    • Pay: Starts at the current New York State minimum wage .
    • Best for: Entry-level positions that require little or no prior experience. Admission already looked for these foundational qualities when accepting you as a student at IC!
    • Key traits: Routine tasks, direct supervision, basic organizational or technical skills.
  • Student Level B (Associate)
    • Pay: Approximately $0.15 above the New York State minimum wage .
    • Best for: Positions that require specific skills, training, or previous experience. These roles often seek candidates with more niche interests or experiences.
    • Key traits: Moderate responsibility, technical or organizational skills, some independent work.
  • Student Level C (Manager)
    • Pay: Approximately $0.45 above the New York State minimum wage .
    • Best for: Students who have experience in a related role and are prepared to manage or lead others. These positions often require you to have previously worked in the related student employment role for a set period of time before moving into a supervisor position.
    • Key traits: Higher responsibility, leadership duties, prior direct experience required.
  • Student Level D (Professional – Off-Campus FWS Only)
    • Pay: Approximately $1.00 above the New York State minimum wage .
    • Best for: Students who have Federal Work Study (FWS) and are working in Off-Campus Community Service Paid Partnerships , or graduate students pursuing assistantships.
    • Key traits: Advanced skills, mastery of job functions, independent judgment, and a high degree of responsibility.

Note: New York State minimum wage is expected to increase again in January 2026.

How to Read a Job Description to See if You’re Qualified

When you open a job description, focus carefully on both the wording and the structure. Here’s how to break it down:

Look for “Required” vs. “Preferred” Qualifications

  • Required qualifications are must-haves.

    If you do not meet a required qualification , it’s often best to check with the supervisor before applying.

  • Preferred qualifications are “nice to have” but not mandatory .

    You can still apply even if you don’t meet all preferred qualifications! Strong interest, transferable skills, or willingness to learn can often make up the difference.

Example:

  • “Experience with Microsoft Excel” = likely required.
  • “Experience with Microsoft Excel preferred” = helpful but not necessary.

Pay Attention to the Adjectives and Action Verbs

The language used in the job description gives you clues about the expectations:

  • Adjectives matter:
    • “Customer service skills” = Basic ability is needed.
    • “Excellent customer service skills” = High-level ability and proven experience are expected.
  • Action verbs show the level of responsibility:
    • “Assist with projects” = You’ll help but not lead; good for newer employees.
    • “Manage projects” = You are expected to lead or oversee projects; more responsibility and experience required.

Tip:

If a job asks you to “assist” or “support” — even if you are still learning — you are probably qualified!

If it asks you to “manage,” “oversee,” or “direct,” make sure you have experience leading tasks or teams, or check with the supervisor before applying.

Final Check

Before you apply, ask yourself:

  • Do I meet the required qualifications?
  • Even if I don’t meet all preferred skills, do I have related or transferable skills?
  • Based on the adjectives and verbs, am I comfortable with the expectations?

If you’re unsure, it’s always okay to reach out to the contact listed in the job posting for clarification.

What to Do If You See a Prescreening Question

Some jobs may include prescreening questions to help identify qualified candidates.

  • If you come across a prescreening question that you cannot answer affirmatively (for example, “Do you have Federal Work Study?” or “Have you previously worked in this department?”), pause before applying.
  • Reach out to the contact listed on the job posting or email the Student Employment team to ask whether you are still eligible to apply.

  • Exception:

    If the job posting clearly states that your eligibility is contingent on meeting that specific requirement (such as needing to have FWS or previous employment), you should not apply unless you meet the requirement.

Taking this step saves you time and helps ensure you’re applying to roles where you’re eligible to be considered!

Quick Tips for Success

  • Check regularly. New jobs are posted frequently.
  • Apply early. Especially to jobs posted within the past 30 days.
  • Tailor your application. If a posting asks for a resume or cover letter, align it with the specific skills and duties listed.

  • Ask for help!

    If you’re unsure about qualifications, prescreening questions, or the application process, we are here to support you. You can reach us at Studentemployment@ithaca.edu or by booking an appointment with Hope Borsic, the Student Employment Specialist here.