Work-study
Earn, learn, and contribute to the life of the college
Purposeful Work
Work as part of a COA education
The work-study program at College of the Atlantic offers more than just a paycheck—it’s a meaningful opportunity to build skills, connect with the community, and apply your passions beyond the classroom. Work-study students play a crucial role in supporting departments across campus, helping COA run smoothly while gaining valuable experience.
Your Path
How work-study supports your journey
Eligible students receive a work-study award as part of their financial aid package. Award amounts vary depending on financial need. Through a wide variety of positions—from whale research to farm work to library support—students contribute to campus life while gaining practical, real-world experience. At COA, everybody does their part—and the entire community benefits.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Most COA students are eligible based on financial need, reviewed annually. Students must maintain at least two academic credits per term. Some institutional work-study may be awarded without financial need.
Work-study earnings are paid bi-weekly based on hours worked and can be used for personal expenses or tuition. The award listed in your financial aid package is an estimate—not a guaranteed amount.
New students: After accepting your financial aid package, you’ll complete a work-study profile and may submit a resume. Placements are assigned based on your interests, skills, and college needs.
Returning students: You’ll typically stay in your previous position unless you request a change. You can also secure your own placement with supervisor approval.
Students are expected to stay in their position for the academic year. Changes are considered in special circumstances with supervisor and coordinator approval.
New students: Assignments are shared during work-study info sessions each term.
Returning students: Assignments are emailed before the academic year begins.
The Details
Paychecks, hours, and employment details
Most work-study students work an average of 7–10 hours per week, with a maximum of 20 hours across all campus jobs. Wages follow a four-level pay scale, beginning at Maine’s minimum wage. Paychecks are issued bi-weekly through direct deposit, though students may choose to have earnings applied directly toward tuition by coordinating with the Business Office.
To ensure timely payment, students are responsible for submitting and signing their timesheets on schedule. Before starting work, all students must complete required employment paperwork, including W-4 and I-9 forms, and present two forms of identification in person at the Business Office.
Where you can work: campus-wide opportunities
Students power almost every department at COA. Work-study jobs include:
- Administrative offices (Admissions, Registrar, Student Life, etc.)
- Allied Whale (marine mammal research and rescue)
- Bateau Press (publishing and editing support)
- Buildings and grounds (maintenance, gardening, sustainability work)
- Community Energy Center (clean energy projects and outreach)
- Dining services (kitchen, cafe, catering)
- Dorr Museum (visitor support and education)
- Farm teams (Beech Hill and Peggy Rockefeller Farms)
- Food and sustainable agriculture systems (education and programming)
- GIS Lab (mapping support and research)
- Greenhouses (plant collection care)
- Herbarium (botanical collections management)
- IT helpdesk (technical support)
- Osprey crew (marine transport and navigation skills)
- Outdoor programs (trip leadership, gear management)
- Thorndike Library (circulation, patron support)
- Visual arts, communications, and media labs
- Writing Center (peer writing tutors)
Beyond work-study: other student employment
Some positions on campus operate outside the work-study program:
- Van drivers (Buildings & Grounds)
- Teaching assistants
- Notetakers (Writing Center)
- Tour guides (Admissions)
- Break-period workers (winter, spring, summer)
Students interested in these roles should contact the hiring departments directly.