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Ask HN: What are some low level jobs where you can work on side projects?

2 points by bkcreate ↗ HN
What are some low level jobs (high school or above) that give you a chance to work on side projects? I have heard that bridge operators and security guards can have long stretches of free time at work with no repercussions for working on other things as long as you get your work done. What are some other examples?

6 comments

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matchmike1313
I used to work in a library at my college (while in undergrad). I believe there were also some high-school graduate workers employed there too. It was a very easy job that mostly composed of gathering book requests and preparing them for patrons. I say it was a 80% free time and 20% work split. Another good job in my experience was lifeguarding, some cities even pay as high as $11/hr for an entry level position, most of the time it's 50/50 with work and break time or 70/30 work / break time.
bkcreate
I was considering trying to get a job in one of the computer labs on campus in the spring semester at my University, kind of fits along the same lines. I was somewhat concerned that they might have some rights to your product because you developed it on their time, any experience with that?
matchmike1313
That could be a great option for you I think. As far as I know, unless otherwise noted in some type of legal document any code you write regardless on whose time is your code legally. Unless you sign some type of agreement which you wouldn't have to sign to work at the University lab, more so for a software internship / job.
jmnicolas
Go work in France and enjoy a 35 hour workweek and you will have enough time for your side project after work.

Bonus point if you find a job in the public sector you can probably code on your side project at work and after work ;-)

Forget Silicon Valley pay though.

Or if you're really frugal you could live on social benefits and be totally free of work.

bkcreate
I already don't live in Silicon Valley so the pay difference wouldn't be an issue. Whats the process of finding jobs in the EU if I'm only fluent in English? Is it even possible?
jmnicolas
Forget a job in France if you don't speak the language. I can't say for other countries.