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Graduate Assistant Instructor Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Dean Notice: At this time, we may not be actively recruiting for positions in this/these ... Teaching experience beyond the graduate level preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities - May be ...

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Graduate Assistant Instructor information

What is a graduate assistant instructor?

Graduate Assistant Instructors (GAIs) are graduate students employed by a university to assist with teaching responsibilities. Their duties may include leading discussion sections, grading assignments, holding office hours, and sometimes teaching undergraduate courses independently. GAIs gain valuable teaching experience while pursuing their own graduate studies. The position often provides a stipend and may include tuition benefits, making it a popular option for graduate students seeking academic careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate assistant instructor?

To excel as a Graduate Assistant Instructor, you generally need a solid academic background in your field, enrollment in a graduate program, and strong subject matter expertise. Familiarity with learning management systems (such as Canvas or Blackboard), grading software, and presentation tools is typically required. Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills help you effectively teach, support students, and balance academic responsibilities. These competencies are vital to foster a productive learning environment and ensure both student and personal academic success.

What are some common challenges graduate assistant instructors face when balancing teaching duties with their own coursework or research?

Graduate Assistant Instructors often juggle multiple responsibilities such as leading classes, grading assignments, and preparing instructional materials, all while keeping up with their own graduate coursework or research. Time management and prioritization are key challenges, as it's essential to meet both teaching and academic deadlines. Clear communication with supervising faculty and effective planning can help maintain a healthy balance and reduce stress. Many universities also offer resources, such as teaching workshops and academic support services, to help graduate assistants manage these demands successfully.

What is the difference between Graduate Assistant Instructor vs Teaching Assistant?

AspectGraduate Assistant InstructorTeaching Assistant
Required CredentialsGraduate degree or enrollment in a graduate programUndergraduate or graduate student status
Work EnvironmentAcademic settings, often with teaching responsibilitiesAssist in classroom activities, labs, or grading
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, academic institutionsUniversities, colleges, academic institutions

Both roles involve supporting teaching activities within higher education. A Graduate Assistant Instructor typically holds or is pursuing a graduate degree and may have more responsibilities, including leading classes. A Teaching Assistant is usually a student assisting with instructional tasks. While both roles are common in academic settings, the Graduate Assistant Instructor often has a higher level of responsibility and requires graduate-level credentials.

Is being a graduate assistant instructor worth it?

Being a graduate assistant instructor provides valuable teaching experience, professional development, and often includes a stipend or tuition waiver. However, it typically involves a significant time commitment and workload, which can impact academic progress and personal time. Its worth depends on individual career goals and the ability to balance responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Assistant Instructor jobs in Illinois?

For Graduate Assistant Instructor jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Graduate Assistant Instructor jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Assistant Instructor jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Graduate Assistant Instructor jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Graduate Assistant Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Assistant Instructor job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Part-Time Physical Therapist Assistant Instructor

Belleville, IL • On-site


Southwestern Illinois College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

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Part-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

ANNOUNCEMENT
Southwestern Illinois College is accepting applications for the part-time instructors for the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. Part-time instructors are hired on an as-needed basis. Your application will be placed in a pool for review as part-time teaching assignments become available.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Part-time/adjunct faculty in the PTA program are responsible for teaching the objectives for any course assigned, the assessment of student learning, and reporting of student progress as required by the college and the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.
QUALIFICATIONS
1. Graduate of accredited Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant program and licensed/eligible for licensure in the State of Illinois.
2. Clinical practice in physical therapy for a minimum of 3 years (or Coordinator's approval) with evidence of clinical experience in area of teaching responsibilities. Clinical teaching and/or clinical coordination experience preferred.
3. Active membership in the APTA, education section &/or a section in area of teaching responsibility preferred.
4. Strong communication, organization, interpersonal, and counseling skills.
5. Knowledge in use of information technology.
6. Able to travel, as needed.
8. CPR certified/Basic Life Support Provider. Instructor certification preferred.
9. Shall meet the minimum standards of instruction established by the Administration and the Board of Trustees for any assigned courses.
STARTING PAY AND HOURS
Salary varies based on educational level and number of units taught.
WORK LOCATION
The PTA Program is offered at the SWIC Belleville Campus. Involvement in Clinical Education may require duties performed off-campus.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Applications will be reviewed as assignments become available.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Required application materials, such as resume, cover letter and references, should be attached to your application. Other required application materials i.e., transcripts, etc., should be attached after your application has been submitted. Go to your My Job Applications page from the careers home page of your account.
Southwestern Illinois College
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