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Academic Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Academic Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$17

$28

How much do academic assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for academic assistant in Iowa is $17.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do you need a PhD to be a research assistant?

Academic assistants or research assistants typically do not need a PhD; most positions require at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. Advanced research roles or those involving independent project management may prefer or require a PhD. Skills such as data analysis, laboratory techniques, or familiarity with research tools are also important for these positions.

What are Academic Assistants?

Academic Assistants are support staff who help faculty members, researchers, or academic departments with a variety of tasks. Their duties often include administrative support, organizing course materials, assisting with research, scheduling meetings, grading assignments, and helping students. Academic Assistants play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of educational and research activities within schools, colleges, and universities.

How does an Academic Assistant typically collaborate with faculty and students on a daily basis?

Academic Assistants often serve as a bridge between faculty and students, helping to coordinate schedules, distribute course materials, and provide administrative support for classes and projects. On a daily basis, they may assist professors with grading, answer student inquiries about assignments, and help organize departmental events or meetings. Effective communication and multitasking are crucial, as Academic Assistants frequently juggle requests from multiple stakeholders to ensure the smooth operation of academic programs.

What is the difference between Academic Assistant vs Teaching Assistant?

AspectAcademic AssistantTeaching Assistant
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree often preferredUsually enrolled in or recent graduate of a relevant program
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, labs, or research settings within educational institutionsClassrooms, labs, assisting professors and students
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, research institutionsPrimarily in schools, colleges, and universities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for support roles in academiaFocuses on assisting in teaching activities

Academic Assistants typically handle administrative and research support tasks within educational institutions, requiring relevant degrees or certifications. Teaching Assistants focus more on classroom support, assisting professors and students directly. While both roles support academic environments, their responsibilities and work settings differ, making them distinct career paths within the education sector.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Academic Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Academic Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in administrative tasks, often supported by a relevant degree or office experience. Familiarity with educational management systems, office software like Microsoft Office, and tools such as scheduling platforms is typically required. Excellent communication, multitasking ability, and a service-oriented attitude are vital soft skills for supporting faculty and students effectively. These skills ensure smooth academic operations, timely assistance, and a well-coordinated educational environment.

Is being an EA a stressful job?

An academic assistant role can be stressful due to workload, deadlines, and managing multiple tasks such as tutoring, grading, and administrative support. The level of stress varies depending on the institution, workload, and individual skills in organization and time management.

What do academic assistants do?

Academic assistants support educational institutions by helping with administrative tasks, preparing materials, and assisting students and faculty. They may also manage schedules, organize resources, and use tools like spreadsheets or learning management systems to ensure smooth operations. Their role often requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Is being a MOA a good entry level job?

An Academic Assistant role is typically an entry-level position that involves supporting faculty or staff with administrative tasks, data entry, or student support. It can provide valuable experience in office procedures, communication, and organization, making it suitable for those starting their careers or seeking to develop relevant skills. However, the specific responsibilities and requirements vary by institution.
What are the most commonly searched types of Academic jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Academic jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Academic Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Academic Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Academic Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 71% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,291 per year, or $17.4 per hour.
Academic Assistant

$17.79/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Position Title
Academic Assistant
Posting Number
S00552
Full-Time/Part-Time
Full Time
Work Schedule
Salary
$17.79/hour - Pay Grade: 5
Campus/Center
Peosta
Location
Peosta, Iowa
Position Summary Information
Job Goal
Facilitate the smooth and efficient operation of department activities.
Duties and Responsibilities
The tasks listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional tasks related to the type of work of the class as necessary.
Maintain smooth and efficient operation of department activities.
Work independently and utilize initiative and critical thinking skills in making decisions.
Process and maintain confidential information.
Manage calendar and schedule appointments for the Dean.
Understand and adhere to the timetables required by the college, Department Deans, and the division.
Order and receive equipment and supplies as needed by programs and faculty. Initiate purchase requisitions as needed. Facilitate financial forms as needed for budget transfer or purchase orders. Provide support for ordering textbooks.
Provide support to department to reserve meeting rooms, room set up and refreshments. Attend program meetings as assigned and record and file accurate and timely meeting minutes.
Access, input, and retrieve information for word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications along with performing accounting, filing, and other office duties in an organized and efficient manner.
Access, input, and retrieve information and assist with course scheduling in Ellucian Colleague.
Gather, assemble, distribute, update and/or file, and retrieve all information, forms, records, and data as requested.
Qualifications
1. At least 3 years of recent administrative assistant work experience OR appropriate diploma or associate degree in related field required.
2. Experience working in an academic setting preferred.
3. Experience with an online management system and registration software preferred.
4. Experience using Microsoft Word and Excel and knowledge of office practices and procedures required.
5. Ability to work independently on a variety of tasks and responsibilities and act responsibly in the absence of the supervisor.
6. Ability to represent the college in a positive manner with students, clients, suppliers, and members of the community required.
7. Ability to handle confidential information in a professional manner required.
Highly organized with excellent customer service skills. Possess strong written and oral communication skills. Demonstrate accuracy and attention to detail. Demonstrate self-motivation and ability to multi-task effectively. Personal qualities of a strong work ethic, professional integrity, enthusiasm and self-motivation. Equally effective with taking direction, working in teams, or working independently. Ability to learn quickly and apply new knowledge effectively. Team approach to office environment and job responsibilities. Proficient in Microsoft Office applications. Experience with Ellucian Colleague valuable. Experience in an educational setting helpful. Ability to handle confidential information in a professional, ethical manner.
Essential Functions
Communicate effectively and courteously with students, staff and members of the internal and external communities. Be knowledgeable about NICC departments in order to refer students to appropriate personnel for assistance.
Make travel, hotel, and conference meeting arrangements for faculty as requested.
Maintain effective and efficient flow of information through calendars, notes, phone calls, memos, e-mail, and correspondence.
Ensure weekly/monthly reports are processed on a regular basis.
Posting Detail Information
Open Date
06/18/2026
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants