Timeline
- When searching for and applying for internships and full-time jobs, it’s important to start the process 6-8 months prior as many companies post and recruit for positions up to 1-year prior. Employers typically post in the Fall for positions that will be available in the Spring and Summer terms of the following year. In the Spring, they will post for the upcoming Summer and Fall terms. This timeline varies by organization and industry.
- It’s important to note that companies handling classified information, national security and government contracts require job candidates to obtain security clearances and require lengthy background checks. These types of companies and agencies will provisionally hire candidates at least 9 months to 1-year prior to the start of the internship or job.
Tips
- Make appointments with your Career Counselor at the CCPD to help guide you through this process!
- Start the job searching process at least 6-8 months prior to when you want to be working (12 months for gov’t & defense jobs)
- Be sure to have effective, updated & professional application materials including your resume, cover letter, Handshake and LinkedIn profiles
- Network! It’s important to attend employer events held on campus through the CCPD, classes and clubs/organizations
- Start interview prep BEFORE you have an interview!
Handshake
Handshake is our Career Management System which allows you to:
- Apply for internships, co-ops, & full time positions
- Schedule appointments with your career counselor
- Register for, and attend, in-person & virtual employer events along with CCPD workshops
Are you unsure which companies hire applicants for your major? Then check-out RPI’s Hiring Statistics. Read through lists of companies that have hired RPI students in your major for both internships and full-time jobs!
CareerShift
CareerShift is a free job search platform which allows current RPI students to conduct job searches as well as search for employer contacts. Log in using your RCS ID and begin using this great career resource!
My Next Move
My Next Move is an interactive career exploration tool designed to help students discover career paths that match their interests and skills. Whether you're exploring new opportunities, looking for industry trends, or identifying required skills, this user-friendly platform provides detailed job descriptions, salary insights, and educational requirements. Start your career journey today at My Next Move!
O*NET OnLine
O*NET OnLine is a comprehensive career resource that provides in-depth information on hundreds of occupations. Whether you're researching job descriptions, required skills, salary data, or industry trends, this powerful tool helps job seekers, employers, and educators make informed career decisions. Explore career pathways today at O*NET OnLine!
LinkedIn is a social media site and networking platform used worldwide for career development purposes, job searching and industry networking. You’ll be able to connect with friends, classmates, faculty, employers and recruiters, find jobs, join groups, and share industry content. Join LinkedIn today HERE
USAJOBS
USAJOBS is a career portal to find and apply to both internships and full-time jobs within the Federal Government. You can check-out the Federal opportunities in all career areas, including STEM related fields in 100’s of Federal agencies, world-wide. Interested in interning or working for the Federal Government? Join USAJOBS HERE
