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Graduate Assistant Instructor Jobs in Aztec, NM (NOW HIRING)

Graduate Assistant Instructor information

See Aztec, NM salary details

$4

$16

$27

How much do graduate assistant instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate assistant instructor in Aztec, NM is $16.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 job categories do people searching Graduate Assistant Instructor jobs in Aztec, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Assistant Instructor jobs in Aztec, NM are:
Infographic showing various Graduate Assistant Instructor job openings in Aztec, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,547 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Early Learning Assistant - ECFE

Farmington Public Schools

Farmington, NM • On-site

Full-time

PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Community Education Assistants/Instructors/Early Learning Assistant Instructor
Date Posted:
7/29/2026
Location:
MVES/TLLC
Closing Date:
Open until filled
Early Learning Asst. - ECFE
TLLC/MVE
8.4.26
Fridays 4:30pm-7:30pm @ MVES, Saturdays 8:30am-11:30am @ TLLC
$21.30
Job Summary: Assistants are an integral part of the Farmington Community Education Early Learning programs. Assistants are active team members in our classrooms, providing support through engagement with learners and their families, and by assisting in the preparation of our spaces and materials.
Essential functions of the job may include but are not limited to the following:
  • Assist the early learning teacher in preparing and maintaining classrooms and other program spaces and in monitoring program equipment, material, and supplies.
  • Assist the teacher with student tracking. I.e. Attendance, Teaching Strategies Gold
  • Attend and assist with parent/teacher conferences.
  • Interact with parents/guardians and children with positivity and kindness.
  • Listen to and talk with children, engaging them in program activities and play.
  • Participate as an active team member in the delivery and evaluation of the program's goals.
  • Participate in professional development activities.
  • Assist in maintaining a positive and safe environment for all participants and staff.
  • Understand, follow, and implement the policies and procedures of Farmington Community Education and ISD 192.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential 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 essential functions.
  • High School Graduate.
  • Six months or more experience working with or caring for children in early childhood.
  • Demonstrated maturity and good communication skills with children.
  • Sensitivity and tolerance for individuals from diverse cultures and life situations.
  • Knowledge of the developmental needs of children in early childhood.
  • Experience implementing age-appropriate activities in a similar professional environment.
  • Must demonstrate positive interpersonal skills and communicate effectively both orally and in writing with parents/guardians and school staff.

Not full benefit Eligible
ESST benefit
Employees in Minnesota are entitled to earned sick and safe time under Minnesota Statutes - 181.9447, subdivision 9, a form of paid leave