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Graduate Assistant Jobs in Cleveland, TN (NOW HIRING)

Civil Graduate

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$60 - $75/hr

Pape-Dawson is seeking a full-time Civil Graduate in our Knoxville, Tennessee office following ... Responsibilities * Assist in the design and preparation of plans for commercial, residential, and ...

New

Graduate from accredited Phlebotomy training program preferred. * 1-3 years 2 years Phlebotomist or Medical Assistant experience preferred. * Certificate Other Current/valid Certified Phlebotomy ...

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Graduate Assistant information

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$5

$16

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How much do graduate assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate assistant in Cleveland, TN is $16.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.69 and $17.88 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 job categories do people searching Graduate Assistant jobs in Cleveland, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Assistant jobs in Cleveland, TN are:

What cities near Cleveland, TN are hiring for Graduate Assistant jobs?

Cities near Cleveland, TN with the most Graduate Assistant job openings:

SECRETARY TO GRADUATE PROGRAM IN THEOLOGY & MINISTRY

Lee University

Cleveland, TN • On-site

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Lee University rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

602nd of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Graduate Secretary is responsible for assisting the Director of Graduate Programs in Theology & Ministry, the Dean of the School of Theology & Ministry, and graduate faculty in the School of Theology & Ministry with daily program operations pertaining to Graduate Studies in Theology & Ministry. The Graduate Secretary also works closely with the International Graduate Programs for the School of Theology & Ministry. The Graduate Secretary will have full knowledge of and abide by the terms detailed in this job description and all written or verbal policies, procedures and instructions established by administration in the Lee University Staff Handbook. This is a part-time, 12-month position.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
In addition to executing standard secretarial duties for the Graduate Programs in Theology & Ministry, the candidate will be expected to:
  • Assist the Director of Graduate Programs in Theology & Ministry with the administration of on-campus, online, and international graduate programs.
  • Schedule, coordinate, and attend events and meetings, including occasional after-hours events for the STM or graduate programs.
  • Take minutes at all graduate committee meetings.
  • Assist with graduate student recruitment and support students throughout the application, course selection, scheduling, and graduation processes.
  • Maintain program central filing systems (e.g. master syllabi, application files, current student records, faculty files, faculty vitae).
  • Process payroll requests, expense reports, reimbursements, and budget revisions.
  • Produce regularly required and special-request reports (e.g. graduation status, prospects, applications in process).
  • Maintain stock office supplies.
  • Assist in the hiring, supervision, and training of student workers and graduate assistants.
  • Assist in the production and distribution of faculty contracts.
  • Communicate with international campuses and personnel.
  • Assist the Director of Graduate Programs and coordinate with the STM Dean's secretary in preparing semester class schedules and classroom assignments.
  • Maintain and monitor websites and social media accounts for Graduate Programs in Theology & Ministry.
  • Perform other necessary duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
The STM Graduate Secretary is under the supervision of the Director of Graduate Programs in the STM, the Dean of the STM, and the Executive Secretary to the Dean of the STM. The STM Graduate Secretary reports directly to the Director of Graduate Programs in the STM and provides service to faculty and students of the Lee University community with the following performance expectations:
  • Demonstration of ethical, professional behavior in the office environment.
  • A positive, flexible attitude.
  • Initiative to identify needs in the office, assisting the other STM Secretaries in accomplishing the goals of both graduate programs and the STM.
  • Effective communication.
  • Prompt management of tasks given by Graduate Director and Dean's office.
  • Maintaining confidentiality with faculty and student records.
  • Willingness to respond to the needs of the administrators and faculty in a timely and professional manner.
  • Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office, Adobe Pro applications, and related office software, including email.
  • Ability to handle interruptions calmly and professionally.
  • Ability to input and keep accurate records.
    Ability to compose timely, reliable, and complete reports.
  • Ability to accomplish complex tasks, prioritize responsibilities and meet deadlines.
    Ability to receive and respond positively to feedback, guidance, and suggestions for improvement regarding performance.

EDUCATION and/or WORK EXPERIENCE
Previous administrative and customer service experience, preferably in an academic setting.
Experience and proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
Bachelor's degree preferred.
Experience with publication software, and record/data systems (e.g. Colleague) preferred.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
While performing the duties of this job, the secretary is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, use hand tools and/or controls, reach with hands and arms, climb stairs, balance, stoop, kneel, and crouch. The secretary must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 lbs. Extended time in front of a computer screen is necessary. Additionally, physical preparations for events hosted by the department or graduate programs are part of this position, including: event set up, tear down, clean-up, and storage of event materials.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position is a part-time, non-remote position working in an office environment with a low to moderate noise level.
Work includes encounter with Lee University students, faculty members, staff, and the public.
To apply, please submit 1) a cover letter, including the date that you would be available to begin employment if hired; 2) resume; 3) staff employment application ; and 4) names and contact information of at least three professional references to Dana Crutchfield, Executive Secretary to the Dean, at. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

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