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Graduate Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Dean of Graduate Studies Apply now Job no: 557327 Work type: Management (MPP) Location: Fresno ... associate dean, including the development of interdisciplinary programs. * Preferred Knowledge ...

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Graduate Associate information

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$10

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How much do graduate associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate associate in California is $19.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graduate Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Associate, you typically need a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree, strong analytical abilities, and solid academic achievements. Familiarity with productivity software (such as Microsoft Office Suite), business analytics tools, or specialized industry platforms is often required. Excellent communication, adaptability, and a proactive attitude are crucial soft skills for excelling in this early-career role. These competencies enable Graduate Associates to contribute effectively, learn quickly, and add value to dynamic teams in fast-paced organizational environments.

What does a graduate associate do?

A graduate associate typically supports departmental projects, conducts research, and assists with administrative tasks under supervision. They often work in academic or organizational settings, gaining experience relevant to their field of study and developing skills such as data analysis, communication, and teamwork.

What are Graduate Associates?

Graduate Associates are typically recent university graduates who are hired by organizations into structured, entry-level programs designed to develop their professional skills. These programs often include rotations through different departments, mentorship opportunities, and formal training sessions. The goal is to prepare graduates for long-term careers within the organization by exposing them to various aspects of the business. Graduate Associate roles are common in fields such as finance, consulting, technology, and engineering. Participants usually have the chance to network, learn industry-specific skills, and gain hands-on experience.

Is 27 too old for a graduate scheme?

Graduate schemes are typically designed for recent graduates and often target candidates aged 21 to 25, but age is not a strict barrier. Many employers value skills, experience, and motivation over age, so candidates aged 27 can still be competitive if they demonstrate relevant abilities and enthusiasm for the role.

What professions make 200,000 a year without a degree?

Some high-paying professions that can reach $200,000 annually without a college degree include commercial pilots, real estate brokers, and certain sales managers. These roles often require specialized skills, certifications, or extensive experience, and may involve high levels of responsibility or commission-based income.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Graduate Associate expect during their rotation period?

As a Graduate Associate, you can expect to work on a variety of projects across different departments, such as marketing, finance, operations, or product development. Responsibilities often include data analysis, preparing reports, participating in team meetings, and supporting senior staff with ongoing initiatives. The rotational structure is designed to give you broad exposure to the company and industry, allowing you to develop a well-rounded skill set and identify your preferred career path. Collaboration with cross-functional teams is common, and you'll frequently be encouraged to contribute fresh ideas and take initiative on assignments.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

For a Graduate Associate, high-paying roles that can reach $4,000 a week without a degree typically involve sales, real estate, or skilled trades such as commercial driving or certain tech support positions. These jobs often require strong communication skills, certifications, or experience rather than formal higher education.

What is the difference between Graduate Associate vs Intern?

AspectGraduate AssociateIntern
Required CredentialsTypically recent graduates or students pursuing advanced degreesUsually students or early-stage learners, often undergraduates
Work EnvironmentProfessional, project-based, often in finance, consulting, or corporate settingsLearning-focused, supportive roles, often in summer or semester internships
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in finance, consulting, law firms, and corporate sectorsWidely used across industries for training and talent pipeline

The main difference between a Graduate Associate and an Intern lies in their experience level and responsibilities. Graduate Associates are usually recent graduates or graduate students working in professional roles with more responsibility, while Interns are typically students gaining introductory experience. Both roles serve as entry points into their respective industries, but Graduate Associates often have more advanced skills and longer-term employment prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate jobs in California? The most popular types of Graduate jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Associate jobs in California? For Graduate Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Graduate Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Graduate Associate job openings:

Public Relations Graduate Associate (Hybrid - Paid Internship)

Method Communications

San Francisco, CA • Hybrid

$20/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Public Relations Graduate Associate (Hybrid - Paid Internship)

Typical time in this role is 6 months. Prior relevant experience may be considered. 

B2B Tech Public Relations | Method Communications

The Opportunity

This is a paid, hands-on, 40+ hours a week entry-level position lasting six months for people interested in pursuing a career in technology-focused public relations.

As a graduate associate (GA), you'll work collaboratively across teams to develop ideas, strategies and work that aligns with clients and campaign objectives. GAs support the strategy and execution of media relations through the creation of briefing docs, media lists and news scans. In this role, you will provide exceptional and consistent work for both the agency and the clients we work with. GAs shadow all members of our PR teams, attend internal and client meetings, compile media databases and assist with creative strategy. You'll learn how to turn creative ideas into practical solutions, and you'll also refine your ability to think on your feet and stay organized in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Hourly Rate: $20/hour

Work Arrangement: This is a hybrid role and will go into the office 3x a week at either our San Francisco or Salt Lake City office. 

Responsibilities 

Account Support

  • Prepare client agendas and action items, scan news for relevant press stories and assemble client competitor research
  • Coordinating press tour pitching, scheduling and logistics
  • Maintain internal documents such as coverage trackers and awards grids
  • Provide support to team members in the development, monitoring and ongoing upkeep of relevant client speaking and award opportunities
  • Research, build, manage and audit master media lists and briefing docs
  • Create coverage reports and compile media clippings
  • Compile daily/ weekly news briefs for clients and internal team
  • Monitor client news and identify/flag relevant competitor coverage
  • Provide media insights and fresh ideas to internal teams
  • Source and pitch rapid response opportunities to the internal team

Marketing Support

  • Discover what tools are available, what Method has to offer
  • Strengthen your knowledge of the intersection between marketing and PR
  • Learn how to use social media and analytics effectively for clients

Miscellaneous 

  • Help with day-to-day office management: greet guests and answer calls 
  • Assist with conference room and meeting scheduling

What we're looking for

  • Typically an undergraduate degree or relevant combination of education and experience in public relations, communications, marketing and/or related fields
  • Interest in pursuing a career in enterprise technology-focused public relations
  • Familiarity with Google Drive and Google's suite of tools (e.g., Slides, Docs, Sheets)
  • Basic Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook skills
  • Excellent time management, project management and organizational skills
  • Intermediate written, visual and verbal communication skills

What's in it for YOU?

  • Flexible, hybrid work
  • Telecom stipend
  • Paid internship 
  • Leadership development and virtual training opportunities
  • Paid Wellness time off 
  • Commuter Reimbursement if within 50 miles of an office

What's it like to work here?

Relationships are paramount to life at Method, and we invest heavily in building and maintaining relationships with clients, journalists and each other. We work hard to deliver incredible results for our clients. We encourage new ideas, and we always celebrate wins together - both for clients and our teams.

Method is made up of an award-winning team. Not only does the agency win awards, our people are consistently recognized for their excellence. We believe that begins with the recognition they get internally. Our leadership invests significant resources into employee mental health, wellbeing, education and development - and we praise outstanding performance regularly.

Curious about what it's like in real life? Here's what some of our former graduate associates, now full-time employees, have said about their experience at Method:


"Method provides the best opportunity to grow and learn that I have ever been a part of. I had done internships before where I felt like I was on my own trying to figure things out and never really learned anything. That's not the case at Method. Method is a fast-paced, challenging environment that will provide you with experiences to help develop your talent. Not to mention you will be working with some of the most talented PR professionals that are happy to help you out. Method will get you on track to a promising career."

"Graduate associates play an integral role at Method and help reinforce the foundation of every team they are on. They're in a unique position to learn from some of the best in the business, as they get to rub shoulders daily with our all-star leadership team and incredible clients. This isn't a position for college graduates who want to make coffee."

"Being a Graduate Associate at Method was the best way I could've transitioned from bright-eyed college student to actual PR professional. Co-workers across offices and at different levels were willing to take the time to personally train me and ensure I understood The Method Way. I was assigned real work that goes directly to the client. From the beginning I felt like a vital team member, and that feeling has continued to grow as I've been promoted to a full-time employee."

About the Company

Founded in 2010, Method Communications is an award-winning technology marketing and public relations agency built for challenger brands and today's most innovative companies. Our group is united through our core values - relationships, resourcefulness and results. We support each other to do exceptional work for our clients while also focusing on the health and wellbeing of our families, our communities and ourselves. 

We recognize our talented and diverse workforce as a key competitive advantage. Method encourages and actively supports diversity, equity, and inclusion through its policies and business practices, which include recruitment and hiring, compensation and benefits, career development and advancement, training, pro bono work, community programs, and affinity groups. 

Join a Quartz Best Companies For Remote Workers, PRWeek Best Places to work, and PRovoke Small Agency to Work For! 

To Apply

We understand that no candidate is perfectly qualified for any job. Experience comes in different forms; many skills are transferable; and passion goes a long way. Even more important than your resume is a clear demonstration of dedication, impact, and the ability to thrive in a fluid and collaborative environment. If you need reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know. All applicants must provide proof of U.S. work eligibility if an offer of employment is extended.

To apply, please submit a resume. 

Method is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national or ethnic origin, mental or physical ability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Only engage with a representative at Method Communications if their email address ends with our domain, @methodcommunications.com. Method will never ask a candidate to purchase materials or share their financial information.  If you have any questions, please reach out to join@methodcommunications.com. 

Please read Method's Drug and Alcohol Testing Safety Policy.