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Plant Science Intern Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

All JobsPlant Science Intern JobsPlant Science Intern Jobs in Riverside, CA

Plant Science Intern information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$20

$27

How much do plant science intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant science intern in Riverside, CA is $20.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Plant Science Intern do?

A Plant Science Intern assists researchers and professionals in studying plant biology, growth, genetics, and crop management. Their duties often include collecting samples, maintaining plants in greenhouses or fields, recording data, and helping with laboratory experiments. Interns gain hands-on experience with scientific techniques, data analysis, and research projects, preparing them for careers in agriculture, botany, or environmental science. The role typically requires attention to detail, curiosity, and a willingness to learn new methods and technologies.

What types of projects or research activities can a Plant Science Intern expect to be involved in during their internship?

As a Plant Science Intern, you will typically participate in hands-on research projects that may include collecting and analyzing plant samples, assisting with greenhouse or field trials, and supporting data collection on plant growth or pest management. You may also help maintain experimental plots, record observations, and collaborate with senior researchers or technicians. These activities give you a well-rounded experience in both laboratory and field settings, and help you develop practical skills that are highly valued in the plant science industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Plant Science Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plant Science Intern, you need foundational knowledge in plant biology, laboratory techniques, and data collection, usually gained through coursework in plant science, biology, or related fields. Familiarity with tools like microscopes, growth chambers, and data analysis software such as Excel or R is often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and adaptability are soft skills that help interns excel in research environments. These skills ensure accurate data collection, effective teamwork, and adaptability to changing research priorities, all of which are critical for success in plant science projects.

What is the difference between Plant Science Intern vs Plant Biologist?

AspectPlant Science InternPlant Biologist
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a bachelor's degree in plant science, biology, or related fieldUsually holds a bachelor's degree; advanced roles require master's or Ph.D.
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, greenhouses, field sites, internships at agricultural or research companiesResearch institutions, universities, government agencies, private companies
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by universities, research centers, agricultural firmsFull-time roles in research, development, and academia within plant science industry
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between a Plant Science Intern and a Plant Biologist is experience level and career stage. Interns are typically students gaining initial exposure, while Plant Biologists are professionals conducting research or applied work in the field. Internships serve as stepping stones toward becoming a full-fledged Plant Biologist.

What are popular job titles related to Plant Science Intern jobs in Riverside, CA? For Plant Science Intern jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plant Science Intern jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Science Intern jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Plant Science Intern jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Plant Science Intern job openings:
Plant Science Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Science Intern job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,765 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
MWD Water Reuse Co-Op Intern - MWD - #721853572

MWD Water Reuse Co-Op Intern - MWD - #721853572

Cal Poly Pomona Foundation, Inc.

Pomona, CA

$15 - $19.50/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

Job description

Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises Employment Services

ANNOUNCEMENT OF POSITION VACANCY

JOB POSITION: Part-Time, MWD Water Reuse Co-Op Intern

DEPARTMENT: Cooperative Education

DATE AVAILABLE: August 2026

WORK LOCATION: PWSC, inside the Los Angeles County Sanitation District (LACSD)'s A.K. Warren Water Resource Facility in Carson.

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 Metropolitan Water District's Water Quality Section is seeking one (1) Co-Op intern to join the Water Reuse and Process Development (WRPD) Team. The WRPD Team is responsible for operating and maintaining the demonstration plant for Pure Water Southern California (PWSC). This position requires a commitment of approximately 8-10 hours per week, Monday through Friday, between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Work should preferably be scheduled in blocks of at least four hours. During the summer months, work hours may be extended to up to 20 hours per week.

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

Under the direction of Water Quality (WQ) Technicians, WQ Specialists, and process engineers, you may perform the following:

  • Provide both field and laboratory support for the Pure Water Southern California Demonstration Plant.
  • Interpret process flow diagrams (PFD's) and apply this knowledge by reviewing the treatment process design and verifying and documenting treatment processes.
  • Assist with sample collection and preparation, water quality testing, data entry, general laboratory cleanliness, and organization.
  • Organizing and plotting datasets
  • Provide technical report writing, editing, and literature research.
  • Experience handling chemicals in the laboratory
  • Knowledge of laboratory safety practices
  • Experience following standard operating procedures
  • Experience using computer software in a Microsoft Windows environment
  • Familiarity with chemical/physical instrumentation and laboratory measurement techniques
  • Knowledge of general laboratory calculations
  • Self-motivated team player able to work effectively with minimal supervision

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Currently enrolled in an accredited four-year degree program in Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or Environmental Engineering.
    • A minimum overall GPA of 2.5 in relevant coursework (i.e. chemistry, mathematics, physics, etc.) is required.
  • Sophomore, junior, or early senior status with approximately two years remaining before graduation is required.

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS: Any students driving their personal vehicles to Metropolitan work and project locations, including Union Station, must provide proof to the Foundation of a valid California Driver's License and personal automobile Liability Insurance as required by the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles prior to beginning service with Metropolitan, if selected.

BACKGROUND CHECK POLICY: Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises is committed to protecting the health, well-being, and safety of its campus community and assets. In furtherance of these goals, Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises will make a conditional offer of employment to final job candidates, pending the satisfactory completion of a background check (including a criminal records check).

The conditional offer of employment may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information.

In determining the suitability of the candidate for the position, Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises will give an individualized assessment to any information regarding the criminal conviction history that the applicant submits for consideration such as the nature, gravity and recency of the conviction, the candidate's conduct, performance or rehabilitation efforts since the conviction and the nature of the job applied for.

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.

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