Application Deadline: March 11, 2026 (5:00 PM PST)
Program Dates: June 8 – August 14, 2026

The Port of Oakland has officially opened applications for its 2026 Paid Summer College Internship Program.

This long-standing initiative offers college students valuable hands-on experience across a wide range of professional fields within one of the nation’s busiest and most dynamic port authorities.

About the Program Port of Oakland Paid Summer College Internship

For over 20 years, the Port of Oakland has supported college students through meaningful internship opportunities designed to provide practical exposure to public sector operations. The program gives interns a comprehensive understanding of the Port’s four primary business lines:

Aviation

Maritime

Commercial Real Estate

Utilities

Interns gain first-hand experience working within a major economic engine that supports more than 98,000 regional jobs and generates $174 billion in annual economic activity.

Internship Areas

Students may apply for internships in a variety of departments, including:

Aviation Facilities

Aviation Terminal Services

Commercial Real Estate

Communications

Community Affairs

Engineering

Environmental Health & Safety

Environmental Programs & Planning

Business Continuity / Emergency Management

Government Affairs

Harbor Facilities

Legal

Maritime Marketing & Project Management

Technology & Innovation / Cybersecurity

Utilities

These placements provide exposure to both operational and strategic functions within the Port’s ecosystem.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

Be currently enrolled in college or have graduated within six months of the program start date

Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75

Reside during the summer in one of the nine Bay Area counties:

Alameda

Contra Costa

Marin

Napa

San Francisco

San Mateo

Santa Clara

Solano

Sonoma

Priority consideration will be given to students who live in Oakland, as well as Alameda and Contra Costa counties. However, students from all eligible counties are encouraged to apply.

Program Experience

The Summer College Internship Program offers more than traditional office experience. Selected interns will:

Meet members of the Board of Port Commissioners

Participate in a Governmental Affairs roundtable with local elected officials

Network with Port leadership

Tour the Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK)

Explore operations at the Oakland Seaport

Engage in professional development opportunities

This immersive structure ensures that interns not only develop technical skills but also gain insight into regional economic development, public infrastructure management, and environmental sustainability initiatives.

Application Timeline

Application Deadline: Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 5:00 PM PST

Program Duration: Monday, June 8 – Friday, August 14, 2026

Interested candidates should apply before the deadline to be considered.

About the Port of Oakland

The Port of Oakland plays a vital role in regional economic growth and environmental innovation. It oversees:

Oakland Airport (OAK)

The Oakland Seaport

Nearly 20 miles of waterfront, including Jack London Square

A publicly owned utility

As it advances decarbonization and sustainability efforts, the Port continues to position itself as a leader in building a cleaner, greener future.

How to Apply

For detailed information about available internship opportunities and application instructions, candidates should visit the Port’s official internship webpage or contact the program team at:

[email protected]

The 2026 Summer College Internship Program offers a unique opportunity for motivated students to gain professional experience within a major public agency while contributing to the economic and environmental vitality of the Bay Area.

For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, TwitterLinkedIn and Telegram

Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization that is offering this scholarship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.

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