Looking for work

[r_transpose_p]

The bad part about getting a PhD is you stop getting paid to be a "Grad Student Researcher"

I kinda (read "really") need some sort of temporary income between now and whenever I get my postdocs / real job.

Does anyone know where I can get temporary / contract work that I can do from Los Angeles County?

Comments

[queen_elvis]

You can always freelance as a programmer. You're rather overqualified, but money's money.

[r_transpose_p]

That is my intent. I'm just not entirely sure how to go about doing it.

Any advice?

[queen_elvis]

Well, to start with, there are websites out there that connect contract programmers with clients. Google something like "contract programmer bid website." And there's craigslist. I would expect these to be kinda competitive and full of East Europeans/Indians and thus not pay well. And on craigslist you get some unprofessional cranks, or anyway you do in the writing jobs. But it sounds like you need work nowish, plus you can get some experience.

For better jobs, I think you should find places that could use your particular skills and just ask them for work, and/or "network." Networking in this case means reaching out to other programmers you know and asking them if their companies want a contract guy and if so, who you can apply to. I know it sounds toolish, but trust me, a personal connection is more effective than cold-calling. And I've always thought having CMU on my resume would work way more in my favor if I were a coder.

Also, make sure you have some sort of CV and samples on the Web to show them.

[r_transpose_p]

I am a total Craigslist retard.

It took me a couple days to realize I should be looking under "gigs" instead of "jobs"

[shoebox_bird]

Congratulations on finishing!