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Graduate Student Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Graduate Student information

See Riverside, CA salary details

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$25

How much do graduate student jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate student in Riverside, CA is $17.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How can I get a job as a graduate student?

The qualifications that you need to get a job as a graduate student include enrollment in a master’s or Ph.D. program and fundamental research or teaching skills. Employers usually select graduate degree employees for positions that are relevant to the programs in which they study. A biology graduate student, for example, can work as a teaching assistant for an undergraduate biology class or serve as an assistant on a biology-related research project. However, you may occasionally find work outside of your specialization if there is some crossover. Some employers require applicants to meet grade-point requirements or complete basic coursework before applying.

What are common challenges graduate students face when balancing research, coursework, and teaching responsibilities?

Graduate students often juggle multiple responsibilities simultaneously, such as conducting research, completing coursework, and fulfilling teaching assistant duties. Managing time effectively and setting clear priorities can be challenging, especially during peak periods like exams or grant deadlines. Many students find it helpful to communicate regularly with their advisors and peers, utilize campus resources for academic support, and develop strong organizational habits to stay on track. Building a supportive network and seeking guidance early can alleviate stress and help maintain a healthy work-life balance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate student?

To thrive as a Graduate Student, you need strong research abilities, subject-matter expertise from an undergraduate degree, and critical thinking skills. Familiarity with academic databases, reference management tools like EndNote or Zotero, and data analysis software such as SPSS or R is often required. Time management, perseverance, and effective communication are essential soft skills for balancing coursework, research, and collaboration. These competencies are vital for successfully navigating demanding academic environments and producing impactful scholarly work.

What is the difference between Graduate Student vs Research Assistant?

AspectGraduate StudentResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsEnrolled in a graduate program, often pursuing a master's or PhDTypically has a relevant degree; may be a current student or recent graduate
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, labs, classroomsResearch labs, universities, research centers
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, academic researchUniversities, research institutions, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for academic and research rolesSpecialized research roles within academia

The main difference is that a Graduate Student is enrolled in a degree program and may undertake research as part of their coursework, while a Research Assistant is typically employed to assist with research projects, often holding a relevant degree or current student status. Both roles are common in academic settings and involve research activities, but their primary purpose and employment status differ.

What is a graduate student?

Graduate students are individuals who have completed an undergraduate degree and are pursuing advanced studies, typically at the master's or doctoral level. They enroll in graduate programs to gain deeper knowledge in a specific field, conduct research, and develop specialized skills. Graduate students may also take on teaching or research assistantships as part of their academic training. Their studies often culminate in a thesis, dissertation, or comprehensive exams, depending on the program.
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Student jobs in Riverside, CA? For Graduate Student jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Student jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Student jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Graduate Student jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Graduate Student job openings:
Infographic showing various Graduate Student job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,955 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Graduate Student Assistant - College of Science - #721857986

Cal Poly Pomona Foundation, Inc.

Pomona, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises Employment Services

ANNOUNCEMENT OF POSITION VACANCY

JOB POSITION: Part-Time Graduate Student Assistant

DEPARTMENT: College of Science

ABOUT US: As the largest employer of students on the Cal Poly Pomona campus, the Foundation offers valuable work experience and hands-on training to approximately 1,500 Cal Poly Pomona students each year. The Foundation offers positions in various fields; whether it is in the area of technology, science, retail, culinary arts, hospitality1500 management, leadership or research grants, these student employees participate in Cal Poly Pomona's learn-by-doing philosophy and acquire practical skills in their designated field of study.

The Foundation also contributes operating support to nearly 1,100 Foundation and scholarship programs every year, including Bronco Athletics and the Norman J. Priest Scholarship. In addition, the Foundation administers grants and contracts, contributes to campus security, and supports several university publications. The Foundation contributes over $1 million annually to Cal Poly Pomona.

SUMMARY: The Graduate Student Assistant will support a research project in the Department of Biological Sciences under the supervision of the Principal Investigator. The student will assist with research-related tasks including literature review and analysis of insect morphological features related to insect age and reproductive status.

SOME OF THE THINGS THAT YOU WILL GET TO DO (this is just a small sampling of work variety):

  • Assist with literature reviews and organization of research articles.
  • Support data collection activities, including preparation of materials and data entry.
  • Assist with qualitative and/or quantitative data coding and organization.
  • Support transcription, file management and documentation of research activities.
  • Assist with preparation of reports, presentations, and research materials.
  • Attend regular meetings with the Principal Investigator.
  • Maintain confidentiality and follow research ethics protocols.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Current Cal Poly Pomona graduate student in good academic standing.
  • Strong background in bee taxonomy, identification, and curation of pinned insects.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduate work in bee biology and pollination ecology

Previous experience working with pinned insects, data analysis, and insect identification to the Genus or species level.

Experience with insect dissections and knowledge of basic insect external internal anatomy.

CSU along with Cal Poly Pomona Foundation strongly recommend faculty, staff, and students who are accessing campus facilities to be immunized against COVID-19 or declare an exemption from doing so. The systemwide policy can be found at COVID-19 Vaccination Interim Policy and any questions may be sent to fdnhr@cpp.edu.

Cal Poly Pomona Foundation, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Cal Poly Pomona Foundation, Inc. may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodation with the employer.