Student Employment

Current UCR students work as Highlander Orientation leaders, introducing incoming students to the campus.

The Call of Duty (2025)

Attend all training programs including being on time, being prepared for the training, taking an active role, and staying for the duration of the program.
Serve as an Orientation Leader for all scheduled Student Orientations and Family Orientation sessions- whether these sessions are being delivered remotely or in person.
Assist with the set-up, registration, execution and follow-up of each program.
Provide virtual ice breakers and a welcoming environment for UCR's incoming first-year students. Coordinate assigned students to appropriate functions.
Maintain a positive working attitude and serve as a positive UCR representative when interacting with all Orientation attendees.
Demonstrate the ability to be flexible and to react positively under pressure.
Assist with trouble-shooting and problem solving as challenges arise during the program.
Ensure the success of specific portions of the program by assisting with the development and facilitation of assigned programs, serving on panels, etc.
Serve as a campus leader, role model and University employee-including conducting yourself in accordance with all University Policies & Procedures at all times.
If possible, provide translation (verbal and/or written) in other languages.
Assist with the evaluation and wrap-up of the Orientation program including making recommendations for next year’s program.

Timeframe of Work Responsibilities

Spring Training: OLs are required to participate in training every Friday in Spring Quarter from 3:00pm-6:00pm.

Summer:

Summer Training: End of June-early July (Exact dates are still tentative)
First Year Orientation Sessions: Early July through mid-August (Exact session dates are still tentative). Responsible for working from the morning meeting (Day 1) through wrap up (Day 2) on a schedule as determined by your supervisor, plus additional responsibilities as needed.
Transfer Orientation Sessions: End of August (Exact session dates are still tentative). Responsible for working from the morning meeting through wrap up meeting on a schedule as determined by your supervisors, plus additional responsibilities as needed.

Requirements for Employment

Must be a full-time UCR student at the time of application. (This position is primarily suited for Undergraduate students.)
Must have an activated UCR R'mail account.
Must be in good academic standing with a minimum quarterly and cumulative GPA of 2.5 and maintaining it through the duration of employment.
Must be in good standing with UCR’s Student Conduct and Academic Integrity Programs and Housing, Dining, and Residential Services.
Must be able to successfully pass an agency background check.
Must submit documentation that establishes identity and employment eligibility, including a Social Security Number which attests the individuals authorization to work in the United States.
Must comply with the University of California SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Policy.

Application Process

Applications for 2025 Orientation Leaders is available on Handshake in the 2024 fall quarter. Students with work study are also encouraged to apply. The job posting on Handshake will direct you to a Highlander Link form; you must complete this form in order to apply for the Orientation position. Remember that a minimum cumulative AND quarterly GPA of 2.5 is required.
Applicants will be notified if they are selected for an interview.
If selected for an interview, you will be contacted to sign up for an individual and group interview. Interviews will take place in January.
Orientation Leader selection will be announced in February.

Compensation (2025)

Time worked will be paid an hourly rate of $16.50 an hour plus overtime.
Students are able to use work-study compensation to cover work hours taking place during the spring quarter.

Applications for 2026 Orientation Leaders opens November 2025!

Highlander Orientation takes place during Summer Session I and II. Orientation Leaders are unable to attend summer sessions.

If you have any questions about employment as a Highlander Orientation Leader, please contact (951) 827-2789 or orientation@ucr.edu.

iNTEREST FORM

Application for 2026 Orientation Leaders Opens Fall 2025!

The application is currently closed. Please read through the "Requirements for Employment" section thoroughly before submitting an application. All applications must be submitted through Highlanderlink to be considered complete. Highlander Orientation takes place during Summer Session I and II; orientation staff are unable to enroll in summer sessions. Orientation Leaders are not able to be employed in any other campus jobs during the summer.