14 High School Internships in the Bay Area
TL;DR
These Bay Area internships range from healthcare employers and university labs to city departments, science museums, summer camps, and a virtual startup program. Depending on the placement, students might conduct mentored research, guide museum visitors, support government operations, or help run day camps. Several pay hourly wages or fixed stipends, and some accept only San Francisco public school students. Ladder Internships offers fully virtual, 8-week startup projects that end with a final presentation to the host company.
The Bay Area puts hospitals, research universities, city agencies, museums, and startups in one region, which gives high school students an unusual range of places to see professional work up close. An internship here might mean helping with lab research, guiding museum visitors, or supporting a public agency's daily operations. That early exposure lets students test an interest before they commit to a major or career path. Many of these roles are paid, and California generally requires students under 18 to get a work permit through their school before they start.
If you're into science and tech, you'll love these STEM internships in the Bay Area! Leaning more toward the business world? Check out these business internships for Bay Area high schoolers. And if medicine is your calling, these medical internships in San Francisco are a great place to start!
Why should you do a Bay Area high school internship?
A Bay Area internship shows you how labs, hospitals, public agencies, and companies operate in real life. Working alongside professionals helps you figure out which fields fit your strengths and which ones you can cross off. If a local placement doesn't fit your schedule, Ladder Internships suggests startup projects based on your interests that you can complete remotely over eight weeks.
What skills can you pick up in Bay Area high school internships?
Most placements build professional habits such as punctuality, time management, and knowing when to ask for help. You also practice explaining your work clearly, whether to a supervisor, a research team, or a member of the public. Depending on the field, you may also gain technical skills, such as data handling or lab procedures, that carry into later coursework.
How do you choose the right option?
Weigh a few things before you apply: your grade, where you live, your academic background, your schedule, and your budget. Eligibility rules also vary widely, with some programs requiring specific citizenship, residency, coursework, or a minimum GPA, so read the details carefully!
Still deciding what kind of internship fits you? This guide walks you through it!
|
Program type |
Top programs |
Cost / Stipend |
Best For |
|
Virtual Programs |
Cost: Varies by program type; financial aid available |
Students who want remote, project-based work with a startup in fields such as technology, finance, or healthcare, with cohorts in several seasons |
|
|
University Lab and Biomedical Research |
UCSF CURE Research Internship Program; UCSF Summer Student Research Program; UCSF Science and Education Partnership High School Intern Program; Stanford Genomics Research Internship Program (GRIPS); Pediatrics Internship Program at Stanford (PIPS); Stanford STaRS Internship Program |
Cost: Free |
Students interested in biology, genomics, medicine, or health science who want mentored lab or clinical research and a chance to present their findings |
|
Science Museum Programs |
Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program at California Academy of Sciences; Exploratorium High School Explainers |
Cost: Free |
Students who enjoy sharing science with museum visitors and want a paid, ongoing role in San Francisco |
|
Paid Workplace Experience |
KP Launch High School Internship at Kaiser Permanente; Project Pull at San Francisco City Department; Student Interns at Sandia National Laboratories; SFUSD Summer Internships with Industry Partners; Galileo Camps Summer Interns |
Cost: Free |
Students looking for a paid first job in healthcare business, city government, a national lab, industry partner sites, or youth camps |
1. KP Launch High School Internship at Kaiser Permanente
Location: Kaiser Permanente service locations across Northern California
Stipend: $25/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; 40–50 students
Dates: June 14 – July 30
Application Deadline: January 8
Eligibility: High school students aged 16–19 (priority given to junior- and senior-level students); legally authorized to work in the U.S.; permanent resident of Northern California Kaiser Permanente designated service area
The program offers tracks in several industries adjacent to or relevant to healthcare, such as accounting, sales and marketing, communications, product development, and more. During the program, you will engage in hands-on activities, shadowing experiences, and educational workshops that deepen your understanding of the business end of healthcare. You will also attend workshops and seminars for professional and personal development training.
Who is it best for: 16- to 19-year-old high school students, particularly underrepresented juniors and seniors in Northern California, seeking paid, hands-on experience to explore careers in the health care industry.
2. Ladder Internships
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Cost varies depending on the program type; financial aid is available / No stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 10–25%; 70–100 students per cohort
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year for Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines for various cohorts throughout the year
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduate students, and gap year students who can commit 5–10 hours per week for 8-12 weeks
Ladder partners with organizations that range across several different industries, including technology, machine learning and AI, finance, environmental science and sustainability, business and marketing, healthcare and medicine, media and journalism, and more. You will work on a real-world project and have the chance to present your work at the end of the internship. You will work closely with your manager and a Ladder Coach, who serves as a second mentor. Apply now!
Who is it best for: Ambitious, self-motivated high school students who want to gain practical, real-world work experience by remotely collaborating with fast-growing startups in fields like technology, finance, and healthcare.
3. Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program at California Academy of Sciences
Location: California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, CA
Stipend: Above SF minimum wage
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; 40–50 students
Dates: Multi-year, year-round commitment (after school and weekends) throughout high school
Application Deadline: Typically, mid-April
Eligibility: 9th or 10th-grade students who attend a school within the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD); minimum 2.5 GPA; grade C or higher in science and math; authorized to work in the U.S.
As part of this internship, you will attend interactive training sessions that will give you insight into different careers from practicing STEM professionals, and you will receive guidance on your college application process too. You will also work on a science research or environmental action project led by an Academy researcher or partner. Interns will also serve on the CiS Leadership Council and are eligible for individualized mentorships with Academy experts.
Who is it best for: San Francisco high school students who are enthusiastic about STEM and want a long-term, paid experience combining hands-on scientific research, science communication, public engagement, mentorship, and career exploration.
4. Center for Science, Education, and Outreach, UC San Francisco – CURE Research Internship Program
Location: San Francisco and Oakland, California
Cost/Stipend: Paid, amount not disclosed
Dates: June 15 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 8
Eligibility: Current 11th grade students; at least 16 years old by the program start; minimum 2.5 GPA; completed Biology or Chemistry with a grade of B or better
This internship provides a platform for students to gain insight into career opportunities across various fields of research, including basic, clinical, behavioral, and population sciences. As an intern, you will receive mentorship from UCSF faculty, postdoctoral students, and graduate students. You will also conduct your own research and present your findings at a 1-day Research Symposium at the end.
Who is it best for: High school juniors interested in biomedical or health-related research who want intensive, hands-on scientific experience, mentorship from UCSF researchers, and support preparing for college and research careers.
5. UCSF / UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland – UCSF Summer Student Research Program
Location: Oakland and San Francisco, California
Stipend: $3,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Around 8.5%; approximately 35–40 students/year
Dates: June 15 – July 31
Application Deadline: February 13
Eligibility: Grades 10–12 in a U.S. high school; age 16+ by June 1; one year each of math and biology; U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents
You work one-on-one with a mentor on an active clinical, basic-science, or community/public-health research project while attending seminars, workshops, journal clubs, technical training, and small-group mentoring. You conclude the program by presenting your research findings through poster and oral presentations at the formal SSRP Research Symposium. The experience can help you develop research methodology, scientific communication, critical reading, and professional skills.
Who is it best for: Eligible high school students from disadvantaged backgrounds who want intensive, mentored biomedical or health-science research experience and are considering STEM, medicine, public health, or research careers.
6. Project Pull at San Francisco City Department
Location: Public Utilities Commission, San Francisco, CA
Stipend: $23/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; approximately 130 students
Dates: June 8 – July 31
Application Deadline: February 13
Eligibility: Students entering junior/senior year or college-bound first-year students in the fall; live in or attend high school in San Francisco; minimum 2.75 GPA
Throughout the program, you will contribute to day-to-day government operations by working on real-world assignments like data analysis and community outreach, while also participating in weekly enrichment and team-building activities. The experience stands out by offering a financial stipend, firsthand exposure to municipal agencies like the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, and the chance to build a professional network before you start college.
Who is it best for: San Francisco high school students interested in exploring careers in architecture, engineering, business, science, or public service through paid, hands-on work experience and professional mentorship in City departments.
7. Student Interns at Sandia National Laboratories
Location: Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, NM, and Livermore, CA
Stipend: $17.75/hr for the New Mexico lab; $19/hr for the California lab
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; cohort size varies across departments and sites
Dates: Summer and year-round internships are available
Application Deadline: Varies by position
Eligibility: Current high school students who are at least 16 years old; minimum cumulative GPA required for Research and Development (R&D), Technical, or Business positions is 3.0/4.0; minimum cumulative GPA required for clerical or laborer positions is 2.5/4.0; U.S. citizenship may be a requirement for some positions that require security clearance or as stated in the job posting
As an intern, you will work with expert scientists and engineers on projects that contribute to technological advancements. Intern positions can include work in cybersecurity, energy, engineering, and software, under the guidance of a manager, who will help structure your work assignment, schedule, and the duration of your internship. You will receive mentorship from some of the country’s top scientists and experts, and cutting-edge training, making these internships a valuable learning experience.
Who is it best for: Students who want paid, hands-on experience applying STEM, technical, business, or related skills to challenging real-world projects while working with and learning from professionals at a U.S. national laboratory.
8. Stanford University – Genomics Research Internship Program (GRIPS)
Location: Stanford University
Cost/Stipend: None except a $55 application fee, waived on demonstrated financial need; scholarship consideration conditional, if funding is available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; small cohort sizes
Dates: June 15 – August 6
Application Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: Aged 16+ by the start date; reside in Alameda, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, or Santa Cruz counties; minimum 3.0 unweighted GPA; some prior biology, chemistry, or computer programming background
Throughout the program, you will spend 20 hours a week conducting hands-on genomics research in a Stanford laboratory under the guidance of a faculty mentor, while also participating in weekly journal clubs and career-focused seminars. This highly competitive initiative stands out by offering an accessible, entry-level research opportunity with no participation fees, giving you direct networking access to world-class scientists without requiring prior lab experience.
Who is it best for: Bay Area high school students with a strong interest in genetics, genomics, computational biology, or biomedical research who want an intensive, mentored, hands-on laboratory research experience at Stanford.
9. SFUSD – Summer Internships with Industry Partners
Location: San Francisco, California; in person at industry partner sites
Stipend: Paid, amount not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size not stated
Dates: 6 weeks in the summer
Application Deadline: February 27
Eligibility: Currently enrolled and continuing SFUSD high school students; intended for sophomores and juniors; priority to 11th graders (rising seniors) who have not previously interned with SFUSD
You will choose an industry sector from a range of choices available, including Automotive/Transportation, Culinary/Hospitality, Event Planning, Gardening/Urban Agriculture, Information Technology, Office Management (HR, Non-Profit), and Sports/Coaching. You will work alongside industry mentors in your chosen field and explore careers in that field. The internship will also help you develop skills that come in handy in college and beyond.
Who is it best for: SFUSD sophomores or juniors who want paid, hands-on first work experience with industry mentors in varied fields.
10. Exploratorium – High School Explainers
Location: San Francisco, California, USA; in person at the Exploratorium
Stipend: School year: $19.61/hour; Summer: $19.18/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; over 130 paid positions per year
Dates: School year: September 7 – June 14; Summer: June 16 – September 6
Application Deadline: School year & Summer: open until filled
Eligibility: Students who have finished their first year of high school, including those in traditional and alternative programs; ages 15–18 for first-time Explainers and up to 20 for returning Explainers; able to obtain a valid work permit
As an Explainer, you become an ambassador of science, interacting with museum visitors, leading demonstrations, and running many museum operations. During your shifts on the museum floor, you will actively facilitate hands-on exhibits, lead daily science demonstrations, and assist with general operations. The program stands out by prioritizing a highly diverse cohort and inquiry-based learning, helping you build vital communication and career skills on the job without needing any prior science background.
Who is it best for: Bay Area high schoolers who are curious, enjoy talking with people, and want a paid first job leading hands-on science demonstrations, helping museum visitors at exhibits, and building communication skills.
11. UCSF Science and Education Partnership – High School Intern Program
Location: UCSF labs, San Francisco, California; in person
Stipend: $4,500
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; 25 interns per cohort
Dates: June 8 – July 31
Application Deadline: February 8
Eligibility: Current high school juniors (rising seniors during the summer); enrolled in an SFUSD high school or San Francisco public charter school, with no exceptions
Throughout the summer, you will work 35 hours a week alongside a scientist mentor to complete an independent laboratory project, present your findings through abstracts and posters, and attend dedicated college counseling and networking events. What sets this program apart is its unique admissions approach: acceptance is not based on your grades or prior academic achievement, and you receive a substantial $4,500 stipend to ensure equitable access.
Who is it best for: A San Francisco public or charter school junior, especially a low-income or first-generation student, who wants a full-time summer of mentored UCSF lab research alongside personalized college application support.
12. Stanford Medicine, Department of Pediatrics – Pediatrics Internship Program at Stanford (PIPS)
Location: Stanford Medicine, with the option of some remote work
Stipend: $3,000 for those who demonstrate financial need
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; 35–40 students
Dates: June 8 – July 24
Application Deadline: February 23
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors who are at least 16 by the start date, live and attend school in San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Marin, Alameda, Contra Costa, or Santa Cruz counties; hold a 3.0 unweighted GPA
The program immerses you in the fields of science, medicine, and maternal and child health research. Committing about 30 hours a week, you will work directly with Stanford faculty and postdoctoral fellows to conduct an independent research project and present your findings at a culminating poster symposium. This internship stands out by specifically targeting beginners with little to no prior research exposure and offering a $3,000 stipend if you demonstrate financial need.
Who is it best for: Bay Area high school rising juniors and seniors interested in medicine, pediatrics, and scientific research, especially students seeking an introductory, hands-on research experience with little or no prior research exposure.
13. Stanford Medicine, Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery – Stanford STaRS Internship Program
Location: Stanford, California
Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; approximately 20 students each summer
Dates: June 15 – August 7
Application Deadline: November 30
Eligibility: High school students; age 16+ by program start; U.S. and associated territories
You conduct hands-on biomedical research in a Stanford laboratory while learning techniques including histology, imaging, and genotyping alongside clinician-scientist mentors. You also attend interactive lectures and skill-building workshops and present your findings in a final showcase. The experience can help you develop foundational laboratory, research, and scientific-communication skills while exploring medicine, biomedical science, and reconstructive surgery.
Who is it best for: High school students interested in biomedical research or medicine who want intensive, beginner-accessible laboratory experience and mentorship.
14. Galileo Camps – Summer Interns
Location: Multiple San Francisco Bay Area camp sites, California; in person
Stipend: Paid, amount not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Between June 1 and July 31; interns work a minimum of four continuous weeks, plus online training and two pre-camp setup days
Application Deadline: Open until positions are filled
Eligibility: At least 16 years old by May 1; completion of background check, possible TB screening, state-mandated training, and online training
As part of their summer team, you will primarily help campers with logistics and operations. More specifically, you will work as an office assistant, lesson helper, game leader, activities planner, and support camp operations to keep camp running smoothly, from setting up space for families to supporting daily activities. You will also assess the needs of individual campers while working closely with the camp director and operations coordinators to complete various administrative duties throughout the day and week.
Who is it best for: High school students aged 16 or older who enjoy working with young children and want paid, hands-on experience in camp operations, customer service, and youth leadership, especially those considering future counselor or education roles.
Can a Bay Area high school internship help with your college applications?
Bay Area internships can place you in a university lab, on a museum floor, or inside a city department, giving you specific work to describe. Presenting research at a symposium, leading science demonstrations, or analyzing data for a public agency shows an interest tested through real responsibility. Reflecting on that work can show colleges how your academic direction developed.
How do you apply for a Bay Area high school internship?
Start with each program's official eligibility rules, such as age, grade, residence, or school district, because these are usually firm requirements. Many applications ask for a transcript, short responses, and a recommendation, though every process differs. Tracking winter deadlines for summer programs and applying early is sensible advice, not a formal rule.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are these internships mostly lab research, or do some involve other kinds of work?
Research is only one part of this list, and many options involve very different work. Several university programs focus on mentored lab or clinical research, while other placements have you lead science demonstrations for museum visitors, support city operations, explore the business side of healthcare, or help run summer camp activities.
2. Do I need previous lab experience for the research placements?
Not necessarily, since several of the research programs are designed with beginners in mind. A few specifically welcome students with little or no research exposure, and one selects interns without weighing grades or prior achievement. In contrast, others ask for completed coursework in subjects such as biology, chemistry, math, or programming.
3. Are these all summer commitments, or do any fit around the school year?
Most run over the summer, but a few continue during the school year—the summer research programs typically last about seven to eight weeks at 20 to 35 hours a week. One museum role offers school-year shifts, another runs after school and on weekends across several years of high school, and the national lab lists year-round positions.
4. Will I need to commute into San Francisco, or are there options elsewhere?
Plenty of placements are outside the city, spread across the wider region. Along with the San Francisco options, programs are based in Oakland, on the Peninsula, in Livermore, at service locations across Northern California, and at campsites around the Bay Area; one pediatrics program also allows some remote work. If a daily commute is hard to manage, Ladder Internships offers remote startup internships where you work on a real project with a manager.