For international students studying in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the USA, finding part-time employment is a common way to support themselves financially and gain work experience. Car wash stations often serve as accessible entry-level job opportunities.
This article provides an overview of the requirements, regulations, and other pertinent information for students considering working at car wash stations in these countries.
Car Wash Jobs and Skill Shortages
Generally, car wash jobs are not classified under skill shortages in these countries. They typically require minimal training and experience, and a readily available workforce often fills these positions. However, regional variations in labor availability can occur, and some businesses may experience difficulty finding workers, especially during periods of low unemployment or due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Part-Time Work Regulations for International Students in 2024
Here we list the regulations for international students in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the USA regarding part-time work:
1. Australia
- International students on a student visa are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their study periods.
- During scheduled course breaks, there are no restrictions on working hours.
- Car wash jobs are accessible to students within these regulations.
2. New Zealand
- International students can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
- Car wash stations are a viable option for part-time work under these conditions.
3. Canada
- International students in Canada can work on-campus for unlimited hours.
- For off-campus work, including car wash jobs, students can work up to 20 hours per week during study periods and full-time during scheduled breaks, provided their study permit includes work authorization.
4. USA
- F-1 visa holders can work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during study periods and full-time during breaks.
- Off-campus work at places like car wash stations requires specific authorization, such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT), with approval from the Designated School Official (DSO).
Average Salaries at Car Wash Stations in 2024
Following are the average pay rates per hour for car wash jobs in these four countries in 2024:
- Australia: AU$25 – AU$35
- New Zealand: NZ$20 – NZ$28
- Canada: CA$15 – CA$20
- USA: US$12 – US$18
List of Skills Needed for Car Wash Jobs in 2024
- Vehicle Cleaning Techniques: Proper car washing and drying methods.
- Equipment Operation: Safe use of car wash machinery and tools.
- Physical Stamina: Ability to handle the physical demands of the job.
- Attention to Detail: Ensuring thorough cleaning of vehicles.
- Time Management: Efficient task completion.
- Basic Mechanical Knowledge: Understanding basic car components.
Work Visa and Permit Requirements for These Jobs
- Australia and New Zealand: No separate work permit is required for students working within the allowed hours under their student visa.
- Canada: International students need to check their study permit conditions. Some permits allow part-time work without a separate permit.
- USA: On-campus work is permitted without a separate permit, but off-campus work requires specific authorization (OPT or CPT).
Other Part-Time Job Alternatives to Car Wash Work Opportunities
International students may also consider other part-time job options, including:
- Retail and Customer Service: Sales associate, cashier, customer service representative.
- Food Service and Hospitality: Waiter/waitress, barista, kitchen hand.
- Tutoring and Education: Tutor, language instructor, teaching assistant.
- Other Options: Delivery driver, warehouse worker, cleaner, library assistant.
