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Summer Student Program Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Summer Program Counselor

CA · On-site

$18.50/hr

Seasonal/Temporary Position summary Responsible for instructing and interacting with students participating in the Chadwick Summer Program, ensuring that environment is safe and secure. Major ...

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Summer Student Program information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Summer Student Program, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Summer Student Program, you typically need to be enrolled in an educational institution with a strong academic record and basic proficiency in the relevant subject area. Familiarity with common productivity tools like Microsoft Office or Google Workspace is often required, and some programs may prefer experience with specific software or research tools. Initiative, time management, and strong communication skills help students stand out and effectively contribute to team projects. These skills and qualities are important because they enable students to maximize learning, adapt quickly, and deliver meaningful contributions during a limited program duration.

What is the difference between Summer Student Program vs Summer Intern?

AspectSummer Student ProgramSummer Intern
Required credentialsHigh school or college students, often no formal certificationsTypically college students pursuing relevant degrees
Work environmentEntry-level tasks, learning-focused, supervisedHands-on projects, professional setting, mentorship
Employer and industry usageCommon across various industries for student developmentMore specialized, often in corporate or technical fields

The Summer Student Program generally targets high school or college students seeking introductory work experience, focusing on learning and skill development. Summer Interns are usually college students engaged in more project-based work within a professional environment. Both roles aim to prepare students for future careers but differ mainly in experience level and scope of responsibilities.

What types of projects and tasks can participants expect to work on in a Summer Student Program?

Participants in a Summer Student Program are often assigned a mix of hands-on projects, team-based assignments, and individual tasks that contribute to real business goals. Typical responsibilities may include conducting research, assisting with data analysis, supporting ongoing department initiatives, and collaborating with full-time staff on short-term projects. The variety of work is designed to give students practical exposure to the industry, help them build new skills, and understand how their role fits within the larger organization. Supervisors and mentors typically provide guidance and feedback throughout the program, fostering both learning and professional development.

What is a Summer Student Program?

A Summer Student Program is a temporary work or internship opportunity designed for students, typically during their summer break from school or university. These programs provide hands-on experience in a professional setting, allowing students to develop practical skills, gain industry knowledge, and build their resumes. Participants may work on real projects, receive mentorship, and explore potential career paths. Summer Student Programs are available in various fields and often serve as a stepping stone to future employment opportunities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Student Program jobs in California? The most popular types of Student Program jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Summer Student Program jobs? Cities in California with the most Summer Student Program job openings:
Infographic showing various Summer Student Program job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Student Program Specialist (Part-Time)

Student Program Specialist (Part-Time)

The Helix School

San Rafael, CA • On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Student Program Leader (Part-Time) | The Helix School
Location: San Rafael, CA
Pay: $28-$32/hr (plus +$2-$3/hr for approved drivers during shifts that include driving)
Schedule: Afternoons + occasional weekends + summer programming
About The Helix School
The Helix School serves students ages 5-22 with mild to moderate autism. We create supportive, joyful, and accessible learning experiences. Our afterschool programs, weekend events, and summer camps give students a chance to explore interests, build confidence, and have fun, and we're looking for caring people to help make that happen.
Why Join Us?
Looking for a part-time job that's fun, flexible, and meaningful, with strong hourly pay? This role is a great fit for gig workers, college students, paraeducators, camp counselors, coaches, and anyone who enjoys working with kids.
This is a hands-on, relationship-based role. It is not a clinical position. You don't need special certifications. If you bring patience, reliability, and experience working with kids in any setting, we'll provide training and a supportive team environment.
The Role
As an Student Program Leader, you'll help lead engaging activities for small groups of students during afterschool clubs, weekend events, and summer programming. You'll support participation, connection, and joy, ensuring every student feels included and successful.
Job Responsibilities
  • Create and facilitate accessible, relationship-based activities for afterschool programs and special events
  • Engage actively with students during activities, promoting participation, connection, and joy
  • Support sensory and communication needs with patience and creativity (training provided)
  • Help maintain a safe, positive environment during on-campus programs and community outings
  • Collaborate with Helix staff and families to adapt programming and share observations as needed
  • Assist with set-up and clean-up for daily programming
  • Maintain current CPR/First Aid certification, or complete certification prior to employment

Transportation Support (Optional)
Approved drivers may transport students and staff to off-site programming (field trips, community outings, special events) in school-approved vehicles. Driving is not required. Approved drivers earn an additional $2-$3/hr during shifts that include driving.
Driver eligibility requirements (if driving):
  • Valid CA Driver's License
  • Clean DMV driving record
  • Complete Helix driver training
  • Pass a required physical exam
  • Participate in Helix's random drug testing program

What We're Looking For
  • Experience working with kids in any setting (school, camp, coaching, babysitting, tutoring, recreation, etc.)
  • Comfort supporting neurodiverse learners (training provided)
  • A patient, flexible, positive approach
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Reliability and professionalism
  • Must be 18+ and able to pass a background check

Schedule & Pay
This is an hourly, part-time position. Hours vary seasonally and may include:
  • Afterschool (2:30-4:30 PM)
  • Occasional weekend events
  • Summer camp (July 20-August 14, 2026), 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
  • Overnight Camp (March 2-March 3)

Compensation levels
  • Level 1 ($28-$30/hr): Experience with autistic students; strong professional judgment
  • Level 2 ($31-$32/hr): RBT or robust behavioral experience; leadership capacity in challenging situations
  • Approved drivers: +$2-$3/hr during shifts that include driving (optional)

Positions are filled on a rolling basis. Early applicants will be prioritized.