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Graduate Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Graduate Associate information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$32

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:

Graduate Designer / Associate Project Manager

GHD Group

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description


Help us build the future and we'll help you build a rewarding and purposeful career.
Our global network is made up of architects, designers, planners, engineers, and environmental scientists all working towards the same goal.
Join a team that brings inspirational architecture, landscapes, townscapes and places to our world, and we'll provide you unlimited space to grow.
Who are we looking for?
At GHD we are looking for a new Graduate Designer / Associate Project Manager to join the Architecture Design Studio team at our San Francisco, Tustin, Anchorage or Guam offices. This role is focused on offering hands-on exposure to project management and the opportunity to build core planning, coordination, and stakeholder management skills.
Be part of the dynamic culture! Our workplace thrives on a hybrid model, combining in-office collaboration and flexibility. Join us in office, three days a week to contribute, connect and excel in our vibrant environment.
Working with an energetic and high performing team, this position offers a variety of work and will see you involved in:
  • Architectural Design: Contribute to the planning, design, construction, testing, communication, evaluation, and implementation of architectural solutions.
  • Engineering Drawings: Carry out a range of activities under the guidance of more senior colleagues to create engineering drawings for the communication, evaluation, and implementation of engineering solutions.
  • Engineering Solutions Design: Contribute to the development of, and implement feasibility testing of, proposed engineering solutions to provide feedback and data to validate the design.
  • Building Information Modeling (BIM) System: Help with building/construction activities by designing layouts and maps that reflect the property scope and the parameters of buildings/constructions.
  • Construction Advice: Provide professional advice relating to construction regulations and best practice with regard to the maintenance, alteration, and construction of buildings.
  • Building Surveys: Undertake building and technical surveys, with support and guidance from experienced surveyors, to determine the building condition and identify defects and associated risks. Includes conducting a wide range of surveys on complex sites.
  • Personal Capability Building: Develop own capabilities by participating in assessment and development planning activities as well as formal and informal training and coaching. Develop and maintain an understanding of relevant technology, external regulation, and industry best practices through ongoing education, attending conferences, and reading specialist media.
  • Feasibility Studies: Contribute to and support feasibility studies from a technological and organizational perspective, and document findings.
  • Bid Solicitation/Request for Proposal/Tender Analysis: Analyze parts of the bid solicitation project requirements and gather and assess information related to the feasibility of these requirements for the organization.
  • Client & Customer Management (External): Help senior colleagues manage client and customer relationships by using relevant sales or client systems.

What you will bring to the Team
Education
  • Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent Level in Architecture or equivalent.

Experience
  • General Experience: 0-2 years of experience in related field.

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Salary Range: $65,000 to $70,000 based on experience and location.
As a multicultural organization, we encourage individual achievement and recognize the strength of a diverse workforce. GHD is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, genetic information, national origin, sex (including same sex), sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, age, disability or handicap, citizenship status, service member status, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.