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Phd Graduate Student Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Astrix Inc

Associate AI Scientist

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Master's student, PhD student, recent PhD graduate, or equivalent experience in a relevant scientific or computational discipline. * Familiarity with sequence modeling and genomic machine learning ...

Gladstone

Career Services Specialist / Manager

San Francisco, CA

$85 - $100K/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role supports a diverse audience of learners, including graduate students, postdocs, research ... Master's degree or PhD preferred with 2+ years of experience in career development and planning ...

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How much do phd graduate student jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for phd graduate student in California is $16.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD graduate student?

PhD graduate students are individuals who have completed an undergraduate degree and are pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in a specific field. Their primary focus is conducting original research, contributing new knowledge to their area of study, and completing advanced coursework. PhD students typically work under the supervision of faculty advisors, participate in academic conferences, and may also teach or assist with undergraduate courses. The program usually culminates in the defense of a dissertation, which is a substantial piece of original research.

Can PhD graduate students get another job?

PhD graduate students can typically hold additional employment, but they must adhere to university policies, visa restrictions if applicable, and maintain academic commitments. Many students work part-time or research assistant roles alongside their studies to gain experience or supplement income.

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

To thrive as a PhD Graduate Student, you need strong research skills, critical thinking, and a relevant undergraduate or master's degree in your field. Proficiency with data analysis software, laboratory techniques, or discipline-specific tools, along with familiarity with academic publishing systems, is often required. Exceptional time management, perseverance, and effective communication are standout soft skills for navigating the demands of independent research and collaboration. These competencies are vital for producing original research, meeting program milestones, and contributing meaningfully to academic communities.

Is 24 too old to start a PhD Graduate Student?

Starting a PhD as a graduate student at age 24 is common and generally not considered too old. Many students begin their doctoral studies in their mid-20s or later, bringing valuable life and work experience that can benefit their research and academic environment.

What jobs do PhD graduate students get?

PhD graduate students often pursue careers in academia as university professors or researchers, but they also find roles in industry such as data scientists, research scientists, policy analysts, and technical consultants. These positions typically require advanced research skills, specialized knowledge, and often involve project management and data analysis tools.

What are some typical challenges PhD graduate students face when balancing research, coursework, and teaching responsibilities?

PhD graduate students often juggle multiple responsibilities, including conducting original research, completing coursework, and sometimes teaching or assisting in undergraduate classes. Managing time effectively can be challenging, especially when research deadlines conflict with grading or class preparation. Many students find it helpful to set clear priorities, communicate proactively with advisors and supervisors, and utilize campus resources like writing centers or time management workshops. Developing strong organizational skills and seeking peer support can make it easier to navigate these demands and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Graduate Student jobs in California?

For Phd Graduate Student jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd Graduate Student jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd Graduate Student jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Phd Graduate Student jobs?

Cities in California with the most Phd Graduate Student job openings:

Phd Graduate Student jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Graduate Student job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,013 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Graduate Research Student Assistant - CREST Grant - #738592324

CAL POLY POMONA FOUNDATION

Pomona, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Description
Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises Employment Services
ANNOUNCEMENT OF POSITION VACANCY
SUMMARY: The Center for Research Advancement in Smart Manufacturing (CREST-RASM) at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (CPP), funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), is seeking Part-Time Graduate Research Student Assistants to work under the supervision of Dr. Fatemeh Jamshidi, Dr. Mingyan Xiao, Dr. Ellips Masehian, Dr. Zahra Sotoudeh, or Dr. Shokoufeh Mirzaei.
CREST-RASM is seeking motivated Master's-level graduate students to engage in innovative, interdisciplinary research aligned with the center's mission in smart manufacturing, artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced systems integration.
Graduate Research Students Assistants will have the opportunity to apply to the CREST-RASM PhD Pathway Program. This program establishes a pathway from CPP's Master's programs to the UCR STEM PhD programs. Each year, one to two highly successful Graduate Research Assistants will be selected to join the CREST-RASM PhD Pathway Program with University of California, Riverside (UCR). Selected participants will receive additional funding to support their MS program tuition fees and special consideration for admission into UCR's PhD programs in STEM disciplines. Students selected and admitted into the UCR PhD program will receive a funding package, including tuition, fees, and stipend support for up to two years, from the Cal Poly Pomona CREST grant toward their PhD with potential supplement funding from UCR in subsequent years. This initiative aims to prepare and support students for success in PhD studies and advanced STEM careers.
ABOUT US: As the largest employer of students on the Cal Poly Pomona campus, the Enterprises offers valuable work experience and hands-on training to approximately 1,500 Cal Poly Pomona students each year. The Enterprises offers positions in various fields; whether it is in the area of technology, science, retail, culinary arts, hospitality 1500 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 Enterprises also contributes operating support to nearly 1,100 Enterprises and scholarship programs every year, including Bronco Athletics and the Pepsi Scholarship. In addition, the Enterprises administers grants and contracts, contributes to campus security, and supports several university publications. The Enterprises contributes over $1 million annually to Cal Poly Pomona.
SOME OF THE THINGS THAT YOU WILL GET TO DO (this is just a small sampling of work variety):
The position will assist with one or more of the following activities:
  • Be available to dedicate 10-20 hours per week during academic semesters and summer for research.
  • Conduct high-quality graduate-level research in one or more areas: computer vision, robotics, Al, smart manufacturing, mechanical/electrical systems, or cyber-physical infrastructure.
  • Work under the supervision of CPP faculty Principal Investigators.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of graduate students, undergraduate, and faculty across institutions.
  • Engage in professional development activities including grant proposal support, and conference presentations.
  • Prepare and present research findings in group meetings, seminars, and publications.
  • Support the recruitment and mentoring of undergraduate students participating in CREST-RASM.
  • Collaborate and create synergy with Other Subprojects

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • US citizenship is required
  • Current enrollment (or admission) in a CPP Master's program in Engineering, Computer Science, or other closely related STEM discipline.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, write theoretical research papers, and deliver professional research presentations.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with others.
  • Ability to quickly read, understand, and synthesize theoretical conference and journal papers.

Preferred
  • Demonstrated interest in pursuing a PhD and a long-term career in research, academia, or advanced STEM industries.
  • Foundational knowledge in at least one of the program's research focus areas (e.g., Al, robotics, cybersecurity, smart manufacturing, cyber-physical systems).
  • Prior research experience (undergraduate research, MS thesis, or industry projects).
  • Familiarity with tools and techniques in Al, robotics, computer vision, automation, or advanced manufacturing.
  • Experience working with diverse student populations or commitment to broadening participation in STEM.
  • Publications, conference presentations, or technical reports showcasing prior research work.

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

Apply