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Sociology Intern Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sociology Intern information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$17

$25

How much do sociology intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for sociology intern in Riverside, CA is $17.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects or research tasks does a sociology intern typically work on during their internship?

As a Sociology Intern, you can expect to support research projects by collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, preparing reports, and sometimes assisting with interviews or focus groups. Interns may work on topics such as community development, social policy, workplace diversity, or public health, depending on the organization's focus. You'll frequently collaborate with senior researchers, staff, and sometimes community partners to contribute to meaningful, data-driven projects. This hands-on experience helps you apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings and develop valuable professional skills for future sociological or research-oriented careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sociology intern, and why are they important?

To excel as a Sociology Intern, you should have a foundational understanding of sociological theories, research methods, and data analysis, often supported by progress toward a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with statistical software like SPSS or Excel and experience conducting surveys or interviews enhance your effectiveness. Strong communication, critical thinking, and organizational skills help you gather insights and work collaboratively with diverse teams. These skills and qualities are essential for interpreting social data, producing meaningful research, and effectively supporting your organization's projects.

What is a sociology intern?

A Sociology Intern assists with research, data collection, and analysis on social issues, helping sociologists and organizations understand human behavior and societal trends. Interns may conduct interviews, analyze surveys, write reports, and support community projects. This role provides hands-on experience in applying sociological theories to real-world problems and developing critical thinking and research skills.

What are some sociology internships?

Sociology internships are available at universities, research institutions, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. These internships often involve data collection, analysis, and report writing, and may require strong communication and research skills. They provide practical experience in social research, policy analysis, and community engagement.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sociology jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Sociology jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Sociology Intern jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Sociology Intern jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Sociology Intern jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Sociology Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Sociology Intern job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,969 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

$20 - $23/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 5 hours ago


Orange County Transportation Authority rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Description
Intern - Public Outreach
Join OCTA's Public Outreach team as a College Intern and gain hands-on experience supporting the development, building and expanding of OCTA's diverse community program. In this role, you will assist with research, communications planning, content development, and public outreach efforts designed to inform and connect communities with OCTA's services and projects.
Under direct supervision, you will perform a variety of professional entry-level duties related to your major field of study and the sponsoring department's current business operations. As a College Intern, you will be exposed to OCTA's career opportunities in the transportation industry. You will gain deeper awareness of transportation's many facets through your OCTA orientation, projects and teams, and internal networking.
OCTA's College Intern Program is a year-round paid student/intern program. You will gain real world work experience on meaningful projects under the guidance of a transportation professional. You will have the opportunity to use problem solving, communication and decision-making skills as you gain valuable work experience. You will also work with a mentor and benefit from career counseling.
The pay range is from $20.00 - $23.00 per hour depending on your education level. This position is not eligible for employee benefits. The work schedule will consist of approximately 20 hours a week, not to exceed 1,000 hours within a continuous 12-month period.
This posting will remain open until filled.
What You'll Do
  • Understand the diverse community outreach program and support program development and growth
  • Conduct informal and formal data research.
  • Assist in planning and implementing outreach efforts
  • Utilize strong writing and presentation skills to effectively engage with hard-to-reach and underserved audiences
  • Apply effective organizational skills and the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.

What We're Looking For
  • Currently enrolled full-time college student (Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior) at an accredited two- or four-year college or university
  • Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Sociology, or a related field.
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
  • Bilingual preferred
  • Strong writing skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint
  • Ability to create engaging visuals and presentations tailored to diverse audiences
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines
  • Comfortable presenting and interfacing with diverse and underserved communities
  • Professional demeanor with a collaborative, team-oriented mindset

Why You'll Love It Here
  • Contribute to meaningful outreach efforts that support equity and community connection
  • Work alongside experienced transportation professionals
  • Build real-world writing, presentation, and project coordination skills
  • Expand your professional network through mentorship and cross-department collaboration
  • Help improve mobility and access to transportation services for communities across Orange County

Join a team where innovation, integrity, and strategic thinking are valued.
Apply now to gain meaningful experience and help shape the future of transportation funding and capital programming at OCTA.
OCTA is an equal employment opportunity employer that recruits, hires, and promotes qualified people without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, military and veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

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