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Graduate Assistant Jobs in Independence, IA (NOW HIRING)

Medical Assistant - Pediatrics

Oelwein, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Graduate of an accredited Medical Assistant program. * Previous medical assistant experience, preferably in pediatrics or ambulatory care. * Additional language skills. Physical Requirements

Medical Assistant (Podiatry-Full Time)

Oelwein, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Graduate from an accredited Medical Assistant program Experience Preferred : One year of applicable patient care experience or applicable medical office experience as defined by the clinic New hire ...

Primary Care Assistant - MA

Oelwein, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Graduate from an accredited Medical Assistant program Experience Preferred: One year of applicable patient care experience or applicable medical office experience as defined by the clinic * New hire ...

Primary Care - Certified Medical Assistant

Oelwein, IA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Graduate from an accredited Medical Assistant program Experience Preferred: One year of applicable patient care experience or applicable medical office experience as defined by the clinic * New hire ...

Medical Assistant - Mercy Clinic Fenton

Oelwein, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Graduate from an accredited Medical Assistant program Experience: One year of applicable patient care experience or applicable medical office experience as defined by the clinic Additional preferred ...

Showing results 21-40

Graduate Assistant information

See Independence, IA salary details

$5

$18

$31

How much do graduate assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate assistant in Independence, IA is $18.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $20.24 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 Independence, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Assistant jobs in Independence, IA are:

What cities near Independence, IA are hiring for Graduate Assistant jobs?

Cities near Independence, IA with the most Graduate Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Assistant job openings in Independence, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,503 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Medical Assistant - Pulmonology (Full Time)

Mercy

Oelwein, IA

$17 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Mercy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 209 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

606th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Find your calling at Mercy!Assists the physician and office staff with performance of patient care activities consistent with the established standards of nursing practice. The incumbent in this position shall carry out his or her responsibilities and integrate into his or her work ethic the Mercy Philosophy of caring for the sick and suffering, respect for human life and the dignity of each person, applying Christian values to all crucial human issues in the area over which he or she has responsibility. In communicating with patients, families, visitors and co-workers, a caring, friendly, personal and professional
approach is expected. Performs related duties as assigned. All the duties, responsibilities and qualifications documented in this job description are subject to reasonable accommodation. This job description is not to be construed as a detailed statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.Position Details:

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
  • New hire must attend MA Clinic Academy training.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Education: Graduate from an accredited Medical Assistant program.
  • Experience: One year of applicable patient care experience or applicable medical office experience as defined by the clinic.
Why Mercy?

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.


What Mercy employees say

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About Mercy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our mission is clear. We bring to life a healing ministry through our compassionate care and exceptional service. At Mercy, we believe in careers that match the unique gifts of unique individuals - careers that not only make the most of your skills and talents, but also your heart.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chesterfield, MO, US

Year founded

1827