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Student Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Student Assistant

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$21.48 - $33.52/hr

Student Assistant The State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Water Rights has an opening for a Student Assistant in the Permitting, Enforcement, and Petitions Branch. The position is ...

Student Assistant

Patton, CA ยท On-site

$3.1K - $4.2K/mo

The Student Assistant will work flexible hours in accordance with their school schedule, and operational needs of the facility. The classification is a temporary TAU appointment. The Student ...

STUDENT ASSISTANT

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Under close supervision of the assigned supervisor, the Student Assistant performs a variety of administrative, technical, and analytical support duties. The incumbent conducts research; gathers ...

Student Assistant

Palm Desert, CA ยท On-site

$18.27 - $24.62/hr

Student Assistant Please note, the Water Boards do not participate in E-Verify. Please note: this position is paid on an hourly basis and limited to 1500 hours in a rolling year. The salary range for ...

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Student Assistant information

See California salary details

$7

$16

$23

How much do student assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for student assistant 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 student assistant?

Student Assistants are students employed by educational institutions to support faculty, staff, or departments with administrative, research, or operational tasks. Their duties can include clerical work, assisting with events, helping in labs, or providing peer tutoring. These positions allow students to gain valuable work experience, earn income, and develop professional skills while balancing their academic responsibilities.

What are the typical responsibilities of a student assistant?

Student Assistants often handle a variety of tasks that keep their department running smoothly, such as managing administrative paperwork, answering phones, assisting with event planning, or supporting faculty and staff with research or projects. They are frequently the first point of contact for students or visitors, so strong communication skills are essential. The role provides opportunities to learn time management and organizational skills, and Student Assistants often collaborate closely with both peers and professionals, making it a valuable experience for future career growth.

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

To thrive as a Student Assistant, you need strong organizational abilities, time management skills, and familiarity with academic environments, often supported by current enrollment in the institution. Proficiency in office software like Microsoft Office or Google Workspace and experience with campus management systems are commonly required. Reliability, effective communication, and a proactive attitude are standout soft skills for this role. These qualities ensure efficient support to faculty and staff, enhance campus operations, and contribute to a positive learning environment.

What is the difference between Student Assistant vs Research Assistant?

AspectStudent AssistantResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled students, sometimes with specific courseworkUsually graduate or undergraduate students with relevant research skills
Work EnvironmentOn-campus, administrative or support rolesLaboratory, fieldwork, or academic research settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, academic departmentsResearch institutions, universities, labs
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for campus jobs, flexible hoursCompared for research experience, academic career

While both roles support academic institutions, Student Assistants typically handle administrative tasks and support services, whereas Research Assistants focus on conducting research projects. The main difference lies in their responsibilities and work environment, with Research Assistants engaging more in specialized research activities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Student jobs in California?

The most popular types of Student jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Student Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Student Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Student Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,013 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

$3.1K - $4.2K/mo

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Creating Inclusive Pathways to State Service
The Department believes everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed in the workplace. We invite and encourage individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to apply. In this role, employees will gain valuable work experience, strengthen their skills, and contribute to meaningful work in state service.
Applicants claiming priority as a dependent child in foster care, a homeless youth, a formerly incarcerated youth, or a victim of human trafficking under Government Code section 18220 must state " preference under Government Code section 18220 " on their application and provide documentation of eligibility before appointment.
Under close supervision of the assigned supervisor, the Student Assistant performs a variety of administrative, technical, and analytical support duties. The incumbent conducts research; gathers, reviews, verifies, organizes, and summarizes information; assists with basic analysis; prepares and updates reports, spreadsheets, correspondence, presentations, forms, records, and other work products; tracks assignments and deadlines; and supports projects, meetings, and routine customer inquiries. The Student Assistant follows established policies and procedures, maintains confidentiality, communicates workload status, and completes assignments accurately and timely.
Student Assistant salary is an hourly rate, based on hours worked within the month.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
This position may work up to 1,500 hours in a twelve (12) consecutive month period. Under Government Code 14200, this position is a hybrid, in-office/telework position, and may be subject to change. Incumbent can be required to report to the office, or any designated location at any time. Telework agreements can be modified and/or cancelled at any time. All commute expenses to the reporting location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
Pursuant to California Government Code requirements, candidates must be residents of the State of California at the time of appointment
This position requires lawful authorization to work in the United States. The Department does not sponsor employment visas for this position.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • STUDENT ASSISTANT
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-526454
Position #(s):
472-524-4870-901
Working Title:
STUDENT ASSISTANT
Classification:
STUDENT ASSISTANT $3,167.00 - $4,268.00 Student Assistant salary is an hourly rate, based on hours worked within the month.
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Student Assistant
Facility:
Department of Developmental Services
Department Information
The California Department of Developmental Services (Department) is the agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities.
These disabilities include intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism and related conditions. Services are provided through state-operated developmental centers and community facilities, and contracts with 21 nonprofit regional centers. The regional centers serve as a local resource to help find and access the services and supports available to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
The Department is located in a modern, sustainable and innovative office building at 1215 "O" Street, Sacramento, California. Some amenities of the building include:
  • First floor retail space (separate access from 12 th Street)
  • Cafรฉ with multiple vendors
  • Outdoor seating for meal breaks
  • Employee fitness center which includes a yoga studio, cardio equipment and weights
  • Plaza area with kitchenette on each floor
  • Lactation rooms
Department Website: http://www.dds.ca.gov
Special Requirements
The Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) must be typed in 12-point Arial font, single spaced, and be no more than two pages in length. Applicants who fail to answer the question below or submit an SOQ may not be considered.
  • The Department is committed to providing everyone with the opportunity to succeed in the workplace. Preference will be granted to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Please describe an experience you encountered with a barrier or challenge related to education, employment, training, or other life experience and how you have navigated the experience, sought support or accommodations and developed strategies for success.

Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 8/24/2026
Who May Apply
This is a non-testing classification, therefore anyone meeting the minimum qualifications listed on the classification specification may apply for this position. Individuals who are, or have been, a dependent child in foster care, a homeless youth, or a formerly incarcerated youth as defined by Government Code section 18220 are encouraged to apply and will be given priority. If you are applying under this eligibility status, please note on your application your eligibility by stating "preference under Government Code section 18220". Please note that prior to appointment, individuals claiming preference under one of these categories will be required to furnish documentation establishing their eligibility. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Attn: Bryce Miller
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento , CA 95814
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Bryce Miller
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento , CA 95814
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
Knowledge of: Principles, practices, and trends of public and business administration and supportive staff services.
Ability to: Reason logically and creatively and utilize various analytical techniques to evaluate complex procedural items, analyze data, present information effectively orally and in writing, and consult with and advise management. Understand and follow policies, procedures, and regulatory items. Good communication skills. Proficient ability in Microsoft Office, database management, and data analysis. Knowledge of webpage development and maintenance ability, including but not limited to SharePoint and web-based collaborative platforms.
Benefits
No benefits are provided for persons in this classification.
Additional Information
The first cut-off date for this job posting is 08/21/2026.
Electronic application submission is highly encouraged.
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting Minimum Qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment.
Remove Any Confidential Information
Do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for a job vacancy, such as your State application, resume, or educational transcripts.
Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, student identification number, driver's license number (unless required), basis of eligibility, examination results, LEAP status, marital status, and age. Confidential information on the first page of applications submitted electronically online, such as Easy ID number, SSN, examination related information, and driver's license number will automatically be redacted upon submission.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.