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Graduate Assistant Jobs in Amherst, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Graduate Assistant information

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$5

$19

$32

How much do graduate assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate assistant in Amherst, MA is $19.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $21.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate assistant?

Graduate Assistants (GAs) are graduate students who work part-time at a college or university, typically assisting faculty or departments with teaching, research, or administrative tasks. These positions often provide a stipend and/or tuition waiver in exchange for their work. Graduate Assistants gain valuable professional experience while pursuing their advanced degrees, and their responsibilities can vary widely depending on the department and the specific assistantship. Common duties include helping with classroom instruction, grading assignments, conducting research, or supporting university operations.

What does a graduate assistant do?

The job of a graduate assistant is to perform research, teach, or work at a university as part of their academic education. Graduate assistants are typically doctoral candidates, but some master’s students may also qualify to work in this position. Your duties in this career differ depending on your role and the level of class at which you assist. For example, many large lecture classes need graders, readers, and teaching assistants, all with separate responsibilities. On the other hand, if you work in labs or departmental offices, you may work as a full-time researcher.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Assistant, you generally need strong academic credentials in your field, research and analytical skills, and enrollment in a graduate program. Familiarity with educational technology platforms, data analysis tools, or laboratory equipment (depending on the discipline) is often required. Excellent communication, time management, and teamwork skills help you effectively support faculty and collaborate with students. These skills are vital for balancing multiple responsibilities while contributing to academic and research excellence.

What are some common challenges graduate assistants face when balancing academic work with assistantship responsibilities?

Graduate Assistants often juggle coursework, research, and their assistantship duties, which can include teaching, grading, or administrative tasks. Time management is a frequent challenge, as deadlines for academic work and assistantship responsibilities can sometimes overlap. Setting clear expectations with supervisors, prioritizing tasks, and using organizational tools can help maintain a healthy balance. Open communication with faculty and peers also plays a crucial role in managing workload and reducing stress.

What is the difference between Graduate Assistant vs Research Assistant?

AspectGraduate AssistantResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsEnrolled graduate student, often with a relevant degreeUndergraduate or graduate student, sometimes with specific research experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic settings, assisting in teaching or administrative tasksResearch labs, projects, or fieldwork within academic or research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, academic departmentsResearch institutions, universities, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsClarifying research duties and experience needed

While both roles support academic and research activities, a Graduate Assistant typically assists with teaching or administrative tasks while pursuing a graduate degree. A Research Assistant focuses primarily on conducting research projects, often requiring specific research skills. The roles often overlap in academic settings, but their main focus and responsibilities differ.

How much money do graduate assistants make?

Graduate assistants typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, with annual stipends ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 depending on the institution, field, and whether they are teaching or research assistants. Compensation often includes tuition waivers and benefits, and hours usually range from 10 to 20 per week during the academic year.

Is being a graduate assistant worth it?

A graduate assistant position provides students with work experience, often involving research, teaching, or administrative tasks, while offering a stipend or tuition waiver. It can enhance skills, build professional networks, and support academic progress, making it a valuable opportunity for many graduate students. However, the workload and time commitment should be considered in relation to academic goals.

What are graduate assistant jobs?

Graduate assistant jobs are positions typically held by graduate students that involve assisting faculty or staff with teaching, research, or administrative tasks. These roles often provide a stipend or tuition waiver and require skills relevant to the academic department or field of study.

What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate jobs in Amherst, MA?

The most popular types of Graduate jobs in Amherst, MA are:

What cities near Amherst, MA are hiring for Graduate Assistant jobs?

Cities near Amherst, MA with the most Graduate Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Assistant job openings in Amherst, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, and 37% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,056 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Physician Assistant/Nurse Practitioner

Valley Health Systems

Holyoke, MA • On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Note: The compensation range noted above represents the base salaries for all positions at a given grade across the health system. Typically, a new hire can expect a starting salary somewhere in the lower part of the range. Actual salaries will be determined based on the candidate's relevant experience. No employee will be paid below the minimum of the range.

Holyoke Medical Center is a trusted, independent community hospital that has cared for the Pioneer Valley for over 125 years. We strive to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care close to home.

We are seeking a Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner to join our team. The successful candidate will provide high-quality patient care across surgical, inpatient, and outpatient settings. In this role, you’ll be an essential part of the surgical care team, working closely with physicians and staff to support patients throughout their care journey. 

Overview of responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Assisting surgeons in the operating room as a first assistant

  • Performing pre-operative evaluations, including history and physicals

  • Managing post-operative care such as wound care, drains, and follow-ups

  • Supporting bedside procedures (e.g., lines, minor interventions)

  • Prescribing medications and treatments in collaboration with physicians

  • Helping coordinate patient care from pre-op through recovery

  • Maintaining clear, accurate documentation

  • Communicating effectively with the care team and patients

  • You’ll also have opportunities to participate in ongoing education, training, and quality improvement initiatives.

Qualifications:

Education: Graduate of a formal Nurse Practitioner's program or Graduate of a Certified Physician Assistant Program

Licenses/Registrations: Licensure to practice as a Nurse Practitioner in the Commonwealth of Mass or Current Massachusetts Physician Assistant License

Experience: Three years in a professional Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant role 

Special Aptitudes & Activities: The ideal candidate demonstrates strong communication, organizational, and multitasking skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with patients and healthcare staff. They must be able to perform comprehensive and focused patient assessments, interpret diagnostic data, develop treatment plans, and exercise sound clinical judgment when consultation or referral is needed. The role also requires attention to detail, proficiency with computer systems and medical equipment, and the ability to provide high-quality care to adult and geriatric patients in a culturally diverse environment.

Our competitive salary package is adjusted to align with a candidate's relevant experience and skills. We also offer:

  • Low cost health insurance with no deductibles when using HMC services

  • Dental and vision insurance

  • Free disability and life insurance

  • 403(b) plan

  • Up to $8000 in degree/tuition reimbursement

  • In-House Pharmacy

  • Relaxation Room and Fitness Center

  • Other voluntary benefits, such as LegalShield, Pet Insurance

  • Free onsite parking

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