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Freshman Internship Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Freshman Internship information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$5

$17

$26

How much do freshman internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for freshman internship in Riverside, CA is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is $30 an hour good for an intern?

For a freshman internship, earning $30 an hour is considered above average, as most internships pay between minimum wage and $20 per hour. Interns often gain experience and skills rather than high pay, but this rate can reflect a competitive position or specialized field. Factors such as industry, location, and company size influence typical internship wages.

What kinds of projects or tasks can I expect to work on during a Freshman Internship?

As a Freshman Intern, you can expect to assist with entry-level tasks such as data entry, research, attending team meetings, and supporting ongoing projects. Depending on the department and industry, you might also help with event organization, collaborate on group assignments, or shadow experienced professionals to learn different job functions. Supervisors usually provide guidance and regular feedback, allowing you to build key professional skills in a supportive environment. You will gain exposure to real-world work processes while developing the competencies needed for future internships and career growth.

What is a Freshman Internship job?

A Freshman Internship is an entry-level opportunity designed for first-year college students to gain hands-on experience in a professional setting. It helps students explore career interests, develop relevant skills, and build their resumes early in their academic journey. These internships may be paid or unpaid and can be part-time or full-time, depending on the employer. They often involve assisting with projects, conducting research, or supporting teams in various tasks.

Is it possible to get internships as a freshman?

Freshman internships are available in many fields and often focus on skill development and learning. While some internships require students to be at least sophomores or have certain coursework completed, many companies offer programs specifically for freshmen to gain early work experience, sometimes with flexible schedules or remote options.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Freshman Internship position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freshman Intern, you need a willingness to learn, solid time management, and a basic understanding of the industry or field you are interning in, typically demonstrated through coursework or extracurricular experience. Familiarity with common office software like Microsoft Office, Google Suite, or specialized tools relevant to the industry can be helpful but is often taught on the job. Standout interns often bring strong communication skills, adaptability, and a proactive attitude toward taking on new tasks. These qualities help freshmen maximize learning opportunities, contribute effectively to teams, and build a valuable professional foundation.

Can I do an internship at 16?

Freshman internships are often available to students aged 16 and older, depending on the company's policies and local labor laws. Many internships for high school students require parental consent and may involve part-time hours or specific skill requirements. It's important to check the eligibility criteria of each internship program before applying.

Can a 1st year student get an internship?

Freshman internships are available for first-year students, often in fields like business, engineering, or technology. Eligibility typically depends on the student's skills, academic standing, and the company's internship requirements, which may include a minimum GPA or relevant coursework. Many internships are part-time and may require a resume and interview process.
What are popular job titles related to Freshman Internship jobs in Riverside, CA? For Freshman Internship jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Freshman Internship jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Freshman Internship job openings:
Intern, Marketing & Customer Engagement

Intern, Marketing & Customer Engagement

Orange County Transportation Authority

Orange, CA • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Orange County Transportation Authority rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 657 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Description
College Intern - Marketing & Customer Engagement
OCTA's College Intern Program is a year-round, paid opportunity designed to provide hands-on experience in the transportation industry. Under direct supervision, this role performs entry-level professional marketing duties while supporting community outreach, digital content, and promotional initiatives. Interns gain real-world experience, mentorship, and exposure to OCTA's programs and career pathways.
Under direct supervision, you will perform a variety of professional entry-level duties related to your major field of study and the sponsoring department's current business operations. As a College Intern, you will be exposed to OCTA's career opportunities in the transportation industry. You will gain deeper awareness of transportation's many facets through your OCTA orientation, projects and teams, and internal networking.
The pay range is from $19.00 - $22.00 per hour depending on your education level. This position is not eligible for employee benefits. The work schedule will consist of approximately 20 hours a week, not to exceed 1,000 hours within a continuous 12-month period.
This posting will remain open until a candidate is selected.
What You'll Do
  • Support community outreach events and represent OCTA at public engagements
  • Assist with event preparation, materials, and post-event documentation
  • Maintain marketing materials and resources for outreach activities
  • Update website content and support digital marketing campaigns
  • Conduct research and analysis on marketing initiatives
  • Contribute creative ideas and assist with content development
  • Provide support for social media and promotional efforts

What We're Looking For
  • Currently enrolled full-time college student (Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior) at an accredited two- or four-year college or university
  • Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
  • Knowledge of marketing, outreach, and communications principles
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); Canva preferred
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to learn quickly and take on increasing responsibility
  • Bilingual Spanish required

Why You'll Love It Here
  • Gain real-world, hands-on marketing experience
  • Work on meaningful projects that impact the community
  • Mentorship and career development opportunities
  • Exposure to the transportation industry and public sector careers

Join a team where innovation, integrity, and strategic thinking are valued.
Apply now to help shape the future of OCTA's programs.
OCTA is an equal employment opportunity employer that recruits, hires, and promotes qualified people without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, military and veteran status, or other legally protected status.