Crossword Genius

A friend, you are not getting paid (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

amateur

'not getting paid' is the definition.
(as opposed to a paid professional)

'a friend you are' is the wordplay.
'friend' becomes 'mate' (mate is a kind of friend).
'you are' becomes 'ur' (text or internet abbreviation).
'a'+'mate'+'ur'='AMATEUR'

(Other definitions for amateur that I've seen before include "Engaged in as a pastime" , "he's not making any money" , "unskilful" , "lacking professional expertise" , "Person who does something as a pastime rather than a profession" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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