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Graduate Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Genesee-

Assistant Trainmaster

Tigard, OR · On-site

$65 - $95/hr

As an Assistant Trainmaster, you'll play a key role working side-by-side with the Trainmaster to keep everything running smoothly, safely, and on time. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in ...

Metropolitan Family Services

EKT ASSISTANT

Gresham, OR · On-site

$18/hr

EKT Assistant Hogan Cedars Elementary School - Gresham, OR 97080 Overview Salary Range $18.00 - $18.00 Hourly EKT (Early Kindergarten Transition) Educational Assistants Work Schedule: * Attend ...

G&W

Assistant Trainmaster

Tigard, OR · On-site

As an Assistant Trainmaster, you'll play a key role working side-by-side with the Trainmaster to keep everything running smoothly, safely, and on time. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in ...

METROPOLITAN FAMILY SERVICE

EKT ASSISTANT

Gresham, OR · On-site

$18/hr

Work Schedule: * Attend on-boarding and training * Paid preparation and training after school/evenings prior to the start of the program * Attend EKT family orientation the week prior to the program.

Volare Health, LLC

Graduate NA

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$22.57/hr

Graduate Nurse Assistant Opportunity French Prairie Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is proud to be rated 4-stars in Quality of Resident Care and is part of the Volare Health portfolio of long-term ...

Volare Health LLC

Graduate NA

Woodburn, OR

$22.57/hr

The Graduate Nurse Assistants will perform direct resident care duties under the supervision of licensed nursing personnel and will assist with promoting a compassionate physical and psychosocial ...

Volare Health LLC

Graduate NA

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$22.57/hr

The Graduate Nurse Assistants will perform direct resident care duties under the supervision of licensed nursing personnel and will assist with promoting a compassionate physical and psychosocial ...

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All JobsGraduate JobsGraduate Assistant JobsGraduate Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Graduate Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$6

$20

$35

How much do graduate assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate assistant in Portland, OR is $20.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $22.69 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Graduate jobs in Portland, OR are:

What job categories do people searching Graduate Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Graduate Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Graduate Assistant job openings:

Graduate Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Assistant job openings in Portland, OR 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 $41,562 per year, or $20 per hour.

Assistant Trainmaster

Tigard, OR • On-site

Genesee-
See more jobs at Genesee-external

$65 - $95/hr

Other

Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Category: Transportation and Train Crew

Requisition Number: ASSIS008834

  • Posted : August 12, 2026
  • Full-Time
Locations

Showing 1 location

7787 SW Tech Center Dr
Portland & Western Railroad, Inc. (PNWR)
7787 SW Tech Center Dr
Tigard, OR 972230000, USA

Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W) team — part of a legacy that is over 125 years old. With a network of 100+ individual freight railroads and 4,000 employees across North America, we provide transportation and logistics services to more than 2,000 customers.

At G&W, we live by our Core Values: Safety, Service, Integrity, Respect, Transparency, Accountability, Innovation and Excellence. We offer competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package, and paid training to help you succeed. Check out some of our great benefits below:

  • Life Insurance
  • Optional benefit coverages for Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital, ID Theft & Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending & Health Savings account plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • On the Job Training
  • Paid Time Off
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • And more!

* Benefits are subject to change

Job Summary:

As an Assistant Trainmaster, you’ll play a key role working side-by-side with the Trainmaster to keep everything running smoothly, safely, and on time. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, enjoys problem-solving, and values strong team relationships. You’ll be hands-on – supporting train crews, helping coordinate railcar movements, and ensuring customer expectations are not just met, but exceeded. This is more than a job; it’s a chance to lead with purpose and grow in a company that values focus, respect, and excellence.

  • Work with the Trainmaster to promote a safe work environment
  • Know customer and interchange parter requirements of assigned operation and assist in implementing work processes to meet or exceed customer expectations
  • Assist in railcar switching function as necessary to maintain operations
  • Assist Trainmaster in the training and development of employees
  • Take a leadership role in supervising crews and supporting the Trainmaster by managing payroll within budget
  • Occasionally represent the railroad at customer meetings and coordinate with partnering railroads to ensure customer needs are met
  • Assist in conducting incident investigations, providing proper notification and documentation
  • Develop a management style consistent with G&W core values that encourages results-oriented performance from all employees
  • Assist with other projects and perform other duties as assigned

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements:

  • Full-time (40 plus hours weekly)
  • Varying schedule in a 24/7 work environment that includes nights, holidays, weekends, and on-call
  • Must be available to take calls and report outside of normal business hours on short notice to handle emergencies or situations related to maintaining fluid railroad operations
  • Outdoor work in all weather conditions
  • Walking long distances on uneven surfaces and climbing ladders and equipment always ensuring three points of contact in varying environmental conditions
  • Able to lift up to 75 pounds from floor to waist and carry short distances
  • Able to squat, bend and lift overhead
  • Have good balance and coordination
  • Must meet vision requirements (including color)

Skills and Experience:

  • 5+ years of work experience in the railroad industry
  • Knowledge and understanding of safety rules and procedures
  • Effective communication skills both written and verbal
  • Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, applications, reporting, etc.)

Required Education and Credentials:

  • Associate’s degree or an equivalent combination of high school diploma / GED and experience; bachelor’s degree preferred
  • Valid driver’s license
  • At least 18 years of age

Employment Requirements:

  • Pre-employment physical, hearing, and vision medical review
  • Subject to federally mandated drug and alcohol testing including pre-employment drug screening
  • Background screening including criminal and motor vehicle driving history

Relocation:

Must live within 50 miles of assigned location or be willing to relocate.

This position is employed by the specific entity set forth in the job posting.

Qualifications Skills Behaviors

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Motivations

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Education Experience Licenses & Certifications

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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