On-Campus Jobs & Internships
On-Campus Jobs
Working on campus is one of the best ways to build your resume while keeping your academics first. Student employment positions are posted directly on Handshake.
Internships
Internships bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world practice. Our team is ready to help you map out an internship search strategy tailored to your industry.
Networking & Federal/State Jobs
Networking
Up to 80% of jobs are never published publicly; they are filled through networking. Learn how to conduct informational interviews and leverage the CUI alumni network.
Federal & State Jobs
Landing a government job involves a unique application process, strict resume formats, and a bit of patience. We’ve dedicated an entire resource hub to help you navigate USAJOBS and state portals.
Federal & State Jobs
Learn the Basics
What do we mean by federal jobs?
Among the legislative, judicial, and executive branches of the federal government, the opportunities for employment are vast. Politicians and legislative staff, civil servants, and members of the armed forces are all considered federal employees. There are many ways to work in the federal government, but this website largely focuses on full-time career civil-service employment within the 15 executive branch departments, which make up the cabinet and numerous independent agencies and government corporations.
There are roughly 2 million civilian government jobs at more than 120 federal departments and agencies, not including the U.S. Postal Service. These jobs are available in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, all U.S. territories, and more than 140 foreign countries worldwide.
- Pros and Cons of Working in Government
- Health, Retirement and Other Benefits
- Resources for Students, Recent Graduates, and Entry-Level Jobseekers
- Career Guides
Where to Find State Jobs + Internships
Want to work for the state or federal government? There are many jobs and internships at the city, county, or state level that allow you to make a difference or simply learn more through an internship.
Federal Jobs
- usajobs.gov
- Careers State by State: One-Stop Centers
- Intern for California Senators
Click on a Senator’s homepage to access internship opportunities - Work or Intern for California Assembly Members
Click on an Assembly Member’s homepage to access internship opportunities - California Capital Fellowship Program
- Pathways Program
Military Branches
US Marine Corps
US Air Force
US Coast Guard
Safe Job Searching (Avoiding Scams)
If a job offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Protect your identity and financial information by learning the red flags of fraudulent job postings.
Applying to Graduate School
Transitioning to graduate studies requires a specialized strategy. Prepare your materials early and make sure you stand out at upcoming recruitment events.
Interviewing & Negotiation
Interviewing Strategies
The secret to a great interview is storytelling. Don’t just list your duties, use the STARR Method (Situation, Task, Action, Result, Reflection) to prove how you’ve successfully solved problems in the past.
Mock Interview Questions
The STARR Interview Method
Interview Dress Code Guide
Mock Interview with Katherine Olea
Salary Negotiation
Yes, you can negotiate an entry-level offer! Negotiation isn’t greedy; it’s a standard professional conversation. Focus on the value you bring and look at the entire compensation package.
- Research the Market: Use sites like Glassdoor, Salary.com, or LinkedIn Salary to find average pay for your role/location.
- Advocate Using Data: Ground your request in skills, internships, and market data; never personal expenses.
- Look Beyond Paycheck: Ask about remote flexibility, professional development stipends, or signing bonuses.
- Get it in Writing: Express excitement, ask for offer in writing, and request 24-48 hours to review.
Your First 90 Days
Get in Touch
Whether you have questions or need direction, our team is ready to assist you.
Center for Career & Vocation
Schroeder Library & Learning Commons
First Floor
Phone: 949-214-3595
Email: [email protected]
Hours: 8:30am – 4:00pm Monday – Friday