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Graduate Assistant Instructor Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

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 Maine?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Graduate Assistant Instructor job openings in Maine as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Adjunct - Physical Therapy Lab Assistant

Bangor, ME • On-site


Husson University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

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Part-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Location : 1 College Circle, Bangor, ME
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: 00987
Department: Physical Therapy (1180)
Division: Adjunct
Opening Date: 08/10/2026
Closing Date: 8/10/2027 11:59 PM Eastern
Academic Year: Yes
Description
Associated Faculty in the School of Physical Therapy at Husson University support the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program through teaching and service aligned with their clinical or academic expertise. These non-ranked positions are typically part-time or limited-term and may include responsibilities such as leading entire courses, serving as lab assistants, or participating in program-related events. Associated Faculty are not subject to formal promotion or multi-year contract review but are expected to uphold professional standards consistent with Husson University policies and CAPTE accreditation expectations.
Example of Duties
? Lead or co-teach courses within the DPT curriculum in areas of expertise, including lecture-based or laboratory-based content.
? Assist in laboratory instruction, including:
? Demonstrating physical therapy techniques
? Supervising student skill practice
? Providing safe, constructive feedback and performance correction
? Support student learning and skill development in line with CAPTE standards and curricular objectives
? Attend scheduled class or lab sessions as agreed upon with the course instructor
? In collaboration with course instructors, assist in:
? Planning, organizing, and delivering lab activities or course content
? Developing practical exams and grading rubrics
? Supervising and grading student performance according to standardize rubrics
? Maintain strict confidentiality regarding:
? Student performance and feedback
? Course grades and exam materials
? Grading responsibilities, which must be carried out under the direct guidance of the course instructor
? Ensure proper student use of equipment and instructional materials
? Support set-up and takedown of equipment for lab sessions
? Assist in maintaining cleanliness and organization of lab spaces, including tasks such as laundry handling and equipment storage
? Maintain high standards of professionalism and ethical conduct
? Communicate effectively with students, faculty, and staff
? Demonstrate proficiency in assigned course content and a commitment to student learning
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.
Education: Licensed physical therapist (PT) or physical therapist assistant (PTA) in the state of Maine, or eligibility for licensure Professional or graduate degree required; academic doctoral degree preferred for those serving as course instructors
Experience: Clinical, research, or teaching experience pertinent to course skills Prior higher education or instructional experience is preferred Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities: Proficiency in course content and skills, Effective communication skills High professional and ethical integrity Comfort with instructional technology and learning management systems desirable
Supplemental Information
PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands of this position are consistent with the Husson University Physical Therapy Essential Functions Policy. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.
WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.
SAFETY STANDARD: Each employee shall use care in the performance of his/her duties and act in a manner that will assure maximum safety to themselves, fellow employees, and the public. All unsafe conditions, accidents and injuries shall be reported immediately to the supervisor
APPLICATION INFORMATION
Thank you for considering employment with Husson University. Please use our online application system to apply and track your application status.
Husson University is an equal employment opportunity employer
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This position is not benefit eligible.


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