Top Student Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Mentors serve as coaches, role models, and supportive guides, helping students navigate both the academic expectations of college and the everyday responsibilities of independent living. This position is ideal for individuals interested in leadership, education, psychology, social work, special education, rehabilitation, or related helping professions.

Peer mentors support UMatter students in building academic, social, and independent living skills while promoting confidence and self-advocacy in a college environment. 

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF's rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida's best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state's 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF 

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF's Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: 

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.  This job description does not constitute an employment contract.  

• Must be an actively enrolled USF student
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Patience, empathy, reliability, and a strengths-based mindset
• Ability to provide structured support while encouraging independence
• Comfort providing direct, concrete instruction and feedback

Preferred Qualifications

• Interest or coursework in inclusive education, disability services, psychology, social work, rehabilitation, or related fields
• Expereince (formal or informal) supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities

Academic Mentors

Academic Mentors focus on supporting students' learning, organization, and engagement in college coursework.

• Provide individualized academic support and tutoring for USF courses
• Assist students with completing modified coursework
• Help students break down assignments, prepare for quizzes and exams, and meet deadlines
• Teach and model effective study strategies including:
  • Task analysis
  • Note-taking and annotation
  • TIme managment and use of planners/schedules
  • Checking and responding to university email
• Reinforce executive functioning skills such as organization, attention, and follow-through

Life Skills Peer Mentors

Life Skills Mentors support students in developing the daily living and social skills necessary for independent adulthood, particularly within campus housing and community environments. 

• Teach and model daily living skills, including but not limited to:
  • Laundry and basic housekeeping
  • Dishwashing and kitchen clean-up
  • Healthy eating and basic nutrition choices
  • Personal hygiene and grooming
  • Shopping and money management
  • Navigating campus and local public transportation
• Support students in following daily schedules and routines
• Foster social skills, community engagement, and appropriate peer interactions
• Provide independent living support within residential halls and USFSP facilities

Shared Responsibilities 

• Build respectful and supportive relationships with students
• Serve as a positive role model for college behaviors and adult life skills
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to program policies and ethical standards
• Encourage self-advocacy by helping students identify when and how to ask for assistance
• Communicate regularly with UMatter staff to share progress, concerns, and successes
• Complete timely digital session notes to record mentoring activities, student progress, and data