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Graduate Assistant Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Elara Caring

Physical Therapy Assistant - PTA

Decatur, IL · On-site

$27.25 - $36/hr

Graduate of an accredited physical therapy assistant program approved by the American Therapy Association * Current, unrestricted PTA license valid for the state of work. * 6+ months experience as a ...

Elara Caring

Physical Therapy Assistant - PTA

Macon, IL · On-site

$27 - $35.75/hr

... • Graduate of an accredited physical therapy assistant program approved by the American Therapy Association • Current, unrestricted PTA license valid for the state of work. • 6+ months ...

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All JobsGraduate JobsGraduate Assistant JobsGraduate Assistant Jobs in Decatur, IL

Graduate Assistant information

See Decatur, IL salary details

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How much do graduate assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate assistant in Decatur, IL is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $20.77 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.
More about Graduate Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate jobs in Decatur, IL?

The most popular types of Graduate jobs in Decatur, IL are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Graduate Assistant jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Graduate Assistant job openings:

Graduate Assistant jobs near you

Assistant Wrestling Coach Intern

Millikin University

Decatur, IL • On-site

Full-time, Internship

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description
Assists the Director with the daily operations of the men's and women's wrestling programs at Millikin University. Analyzes performance and instructs athletes in events and techniques in preparation for and during athletic competitions. Assists the Director of Wrestling and Athletic Director with all phases of competitive NCAA and CCIW compliant recruiting. This position will report to the Director of Wrestling. This internship is designed as a 10-month experience from August 1 to May 31. The appointment is for one year, with a possible one-year renewal.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Reporting to the Director of Wrestling) include, but are not limited to, the following:
  1. Learn the process for recruiting successful student athletes.
  2. Assist in recruiting and retention of wrestling players for Millikin University.
  3. Gain an understanding for the role of the student athlete in a DIII Athletic Program.
  4. Develop skills to compete for a full-time assistant coaching position or graduate assistantship.
  5. Serve as a position coach.
  6. Develop ability to monitor academic progress of student-athletes.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Reporting to the Athletic Director) include, but are not limited to, the following:
  1. Learn the structure and organization of the NCAA, specifically Division III.
  2. Learn the role of athletics in a relatively small comprehensive University.
  3. Gain exposure to athletic operations and event management beyond wrestling.
  4. Perform duties in the area of event management.
  5. Perform duties as assigned by the Director of Athletics to assist with different sports programs at Millikin.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: This position does not have supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws.
Qualifications
GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to succeed in a result-driven professional organization. Maintaining professional performance, demeanor, team-approach and focus on results while working under pressure in a dynamic environment. Ability to establish priorities, work independently with minimal supervision, and facilitate teamwork. Highly organized, with the ability to plan, execute and multitask to meet deadlines. Must have a demonstrable commitment to promoting and enhancing diversity.
Minimum Education and/or Experience
• Bachelor's Degree
• Wrestling coaching and/or playing experience at the collegiate level.
• The successful candidate must demonstrate effective and excellent leadership, motivational, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Physical ability to complete typical coaching duties, including ability to lift and move athletic equipment.
• Proven ability to recruit and retain quality student-athletes.
• Proven ability to teach and implement current techniques and strategies of the sport.
• Understanding and appreciation of NCAA Division III philosophy, rules, and regulations.
• Commitment to the goals and objectives of Millikin University and CCIW.
• Ability to work within and contribute to the team effort of the Millikin University Athletic Department.
• A valid driver's license is required.
Application Instructions
Qualified applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information of three professional references to millikin.edu/employment. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Employment and first day of work is contingent upon successful completion of a background check. Millikin University is an equal opportunity employer and candidates from traditionally underrepresented groups in this field are encouraged to apply. Beyond meeting fully its legal obligations for non-discrimination, Millikin University is committed to increasing employee diversity and will consider qualified applicants with experience in diverse settings, who have a record of research that supports/benefits diverse communities or a record of teaching a diverse student population. Millikin offers a competitive salary and full benefit package, including eligibility for tuition waiver. To view Millikin's benefits, please go to https://millikin.edu/about/administration/human-resources/benefits.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
As an equal employment opportunity employer, Millikin University does not discriminate in its employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, national/ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender, age, disability, marital status, pregnancy, military/veteran status or membership in any group protected by state or federal law. Furthermore, Millikin University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees, when needed, unless doing so would result in undue hardship.

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