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Orthopedic Intern Jobs in San Diego, CA (NOW HIRING)

Orthopedic Intern information

See San Diego, CA salary details

$9

$18

$25

How much do orthopedic intern jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for orthopedic intern in San Diego, CA is $18.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Orthopedic Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Orthopedic Intern, you need a solid background in human anatomy, musculoskeletal systems, and clinical assessment, typically achieved through completion of medical school and relevant rotations. Familiarity with radiology tools, electronic medical records (EMRs), and basic orthopedic surgical instruments is commonly required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate diagnoses, effective patient care, and seamless collaboration within orthopedic teams.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for an Orthopedic Intern during a rotation?

As an Orthopedic Intern, you'll be involved in a variety of tasks such as assisting in surgeries, performing patient assessments, managing pre- and post-operative care, and participating in daily rounds. You'll also have the opportunity to shadow experienced orthopedic surgeons, engage in hands-on skills training, and attend educational conferences or seminars. The environment is fast-paced and collaborative, with interns often working closely with residents, fellows, attending physicians, and allied health staff. This role provides a strong foundation in orthopedic principles and patient management, offering valuable exposure for those considering a career in orthopedic surgery.

What are orthopedic interns?

Orthopedic interns are medical doctors in their first year of residency who are training in the field of orthopedic surgery. They work under the supervision of experienced orthopedic surgeons, assisting with patient care, surgeries, and rounds. Their responsibilities typically include diagnosing musculoskeletal injuries, participating in surgical procedures, and learning about orthopedic treatments and patient management. The internship year helps prepare them for further specialization and advanced responsibilities in orthopedic surgery.

What is the difference between Orthopedic Intern vs Orthopedic Resident?

AspectOrthopedic InternOrthopedic Resident
CredentialsMedical degree (MD), completion of medical schoolMedical degree (MD), completed medical school, in residency training
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, supervised clinical settingsHospitals, surgical centers, ongoing training in orthopedic surgery
ResponsibilitiesAssist in patient care, observe surgeries, learn orthopedic practicesPerform surgeries, diagnose, develop treatment plans under supervision

Orthopedic interns are medical graduates gaining initial clinical experience, while orthopedic residents are in specialized training to become orthopedic surgeons. Interns focus on learning and assisting, whereas residents take on more responsibility and perform procedures under supervision.

What are the most commonly searched types of Orthopedic jobs in San Diego, CA? The most popular types of Orthopedic jobs in San Diego, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Orthopedic Intern jobs in San Diego, CA? For Orthopedic Intern jobs in San Diego, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near San Diego, CA are hiring for Orthopedic Intern jobs? Cities near San Diego, CA with the most Orthopedic Intern job openings:

Quality Management Documentation Optimization Intern - Summer 2026

Ortho Clinical Diagnostics

Carlsbad, CA

$23 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

The Opportunity

QuidelOrtho unites the strengths of Quidel Corporation and Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, creating a world-leading in vitro diagnostics company with award-winning expertise in immunoassay and molecular testing, clinical chemistry and transfusion medicine. We are more than 6,000 strong and do business in over 130 countries, providing answers with fast, accurate and consistent testing where and when they are needed most - home to hospital, lab to clinic.

Our culture puts our team members first and prioritizes actions that support happiness, inspiration and engagement. We strive to build meaningful connections with each other as we believe that employee happiness and business success are linked. Join us in our mission to transform the power of diagnostics into a healthier future for all.

The Role

QuidelOrtho is looking for a Quality Management Documentation Optimization Intern that wants to spend their summer working towards our mission: advancing the power of diagnostics for a healthier future for all. Interns will have the opportunity to gain knowledge and develop their skills all while contributing to key company projects and initiatives. Our team will help students apply their educational background and broaden their knowledge base within their role and learn more about working in the medical device/biotech industry. Interns will work with a mentor(s) on a guided and impactful project and will be able to collaborate with and be part of a supportive and dedicated team.

This internship will be fully onsite in San Diego, CA (Carlsbad) for the Summer of 2026. Students must be able to secure reasonable housing accommodations in the area for the duration of the 10-12 week internship program.

The Responsibilities

  • Reviewing, editing and/or creating documentation (e.g. batch records, specifications, procedures, work instructions, standard operating procedures) to provide clear and correct instructions for site processes and procedures
  • Interview and confer with SMEs in cross functional groups, observing production and experimental activities to develop and/or revise documentation content for completeness and correctness.
  • Manage the documentation, change order, and change control processes within the change management system.
  • Perform other work-related duties as assigned.

The Individual

Required:

  • Field of study: Industrial Engineering, Business Analytics, or Life Sciences
  • Excellent communication skills including proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word Required; Excel and Visio Preferred)
  • Strong knowledge of English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar required
  • Must be able to create detailed instructions; the instructions must be accurate with content and format details
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must be currently enrolled as a full-time student in a Bachelor's or Master's program in the Fall Semester 2026 at an accredited university or college
  • Minimum GPA 3.0 or higher
  • Ability to complete a consecutive 10-12 week internship
  • Must have work authorization in the United States at the time of hire and maintain ongoing work authorization during employment

Preferred:

  • Rising Junior or Senior at an accredited university or college.
  • Background in science, engineering or manufacturing

The Work Environment

No strenuous physical activity, though occasional light lifting of files and related materials is required. 30% of time in meetings, working with team, or talking on the phone, 70% of the time at the desk on computer, doing analytical work.

Salary Transparency

The salary range for this position takes into account a wide range of factors including education, experience, knowledge, skills, geography, and abilities of the candidate, in addition to internal equity and alignment with market data. The salary range for current Freshman, rising Sophomore is 18.00/hour; Sophomore, rising Junior is 20/hour; Junior, rising senior is $23.00/hour to $26.00/hour; Senior, enrolled in school for fall 2024 is 25.00/hour to 28.00/hour; or currently enrolled Graduate, MBD, PhD program is 28.00/hour to 30.00/hour. At QuidelOrtho, compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case.

Equal Opportunity

QuidelOrtho believes in Equal Opportunity for all and is committed to ensuring all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, have an opportunity to apply for those positions that they are interested in and qualify for without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. QuidelOrtho is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals so that an individual can perform the duties. If you are interested in applying for an employment opportunity and require special assistance or an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please contact us at recruiting@quidelortho.com.