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Graduate Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Administrative Associate

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$18 - $22.50/hr

Assists in the recruiting of graduate assistants using the job applicant tracking system; * Administers all aspects of faculty recruitment using the job applicant tracking system; * Coordinates ...

Administrative Associate

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$18 - $22.25/hr

Assists in the recruiting of graduate assistants using the job applicant tracking system; * Administers all aspects of faculty recruitment using the job applicant tracking system; * Coordinates ...

AND/OR DUTIES 1. Assist in the process of defining and structuring analytical problems. 2. Develop ... Must be enrollment in a graduate program. 2. Experience: Undergraduate research experience ...

AND/OR DUTIES 1. Assist in the process of defining and structuring analytical problems. 2. Develop ... Must be enrollment in a graduate program. 2. Experience: Undergraduate research experience ...

Graduate Landscape Architect

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$72K - $100K/yr

Pennoni is seeking a Graduate Landscape Architect to join our Leesburg, VA office and support a ... Primary Responsibilities: * Assist with the preparation of land development, landscape architecture ...

Graduate Landscape Architect

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$72K - $100K/yr

Pennoni is seeking a Graduate Landscape Architect to join our Leesburg, VA office and support a ... Primary Responsibilities: * Assist with the preparation of land development, landscape architecture ...

Showing results 21-40

Graduate Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$6

$20

$34

How much do graduate assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate assistant in Reston, VA is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $22.26 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 Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Graduate jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Graduate Assistant jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Graduate Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,313 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Assistant Director, First Generation Success & Intercultural Education

Washington, DC • On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Posting Title
Assistant Director, First Generation Success & Intercultural Education
Overview
Take Flight supports the transition of first generation students to life at Catholic University, capitalizing on the gifts and talents they possess. Take Flight is designed for students whose college application indicates that neither parent has obtained a college degree in the United States.
Through their participation in Take Flight, first generation students are able to navigate their time at The Catholic University of America with confidence and ease. Take Flight allows first generation students to:
- easily access all the resources available on campus and beyond;
- reach personal and academic goals;
- develop healthy habits that ensure academic success; and
- fully engage in campus life.
In support of all aspects of the mission of the department, division, and University, the Assistant Director supports the implementation and coordination of the Take Flight program. Executing student-centered initiatives that reflect institutional thinking, foster student retention and promote the holistic development of students. The Assistant Director will serve as a mentor and advisor to students by actively supporting them in both their positive endeavors and in overcoming obstacles.
As a student life professional, the Assistant Director serves as a functional leader and educator for CSE's programs; serves as a resource for staff and students; supports and promotes the mission and vision of Catholic University; and contributes positively to the Catholic University community of research, teaching, learning and service to the Church, the nation and the world.
The Assistant Director is responsible for the following:
- Program development and coordination, including marketing related to Take Flight sponsored events such as Summer Online Program, Pre-Orientation, Skills-Building Sessions, Peer Mentoring, and Social Events.
- The advisement of first-generation college students and mentors and a number of other Student Organizations, as assigned.
- Expand existing intercultural education offerings.
- Supervision of Events team of students to provide event planning and marketing support for department events.
- Supervision of Graduate Assistant to support your responsibilities
This position reports to the Associate Dean of Students and Director of Student Engagement and represents the department in a variety of public relations forums and university events. The Assistant Director establishes relationships with faculty, academic leadership, enrollment services, campus life professionals and other integral staff throughout the campus community.
The projected salary for this position, which represents the full range of anticipated compensation, is: $60,000.
Responsibilities
Coordinate and develop intentional programmatic initiatives and services that positively impact the recruitment, retention and enrichment of first-generation college students.
Market, promote, and track attendance and assessment data for all Take Flight programs and events, and other related events and programs.
Assist in the planning, developing, implementing and evaluating outstanding educational and developmental systems and processes which supplement global University and departmental objectives and provide individualized holistic support services for students, especially those in Take Flight.
- Assist in the development and coordination of curricular and co-curricular support programs and services to enhance student engagement, learning and success.
- Assist in the coordination of programs and services designed to reinforce and create connections with/between individual students, student groups, and the university community.
- Apply best and emerging practices, consistent with the Catholic identity of the university.
- Develop formal, collaborative working relationships with associated departments, including Academic Affairs; Admission; Athletics; Campus Ministry; Center for Academic and Career Success, Counseling Center; Dean of Students, Disability Support Services, Enrollment Services; Housing Services; Public Safety (DPS); Residence Life; Technology Services; Facilities and Maintenance; Events and Conference Services (ECS), and Student Health Services.
- Become engaged with appropriate and effective professional organizations. Actively seek opportunities to receive regional and national recognition for departmental innovations and initiatives.
Serve as a resource person for students, parents, faculty and administrators. Contribute to the positive formation of students, serving as a role model and ensuring that out of classroom experiences target the formation of responsible global citizens.
- Provide advisement to student organization leaders; provide sound fiscal guidance and support to students in using the student activity fee and successful event planning.
- Supervise student staff as appropriate.
- Create goodwill for the University in service to families of students, visitors, patrons, government officials, community leaders and the general public.
- Serve a departmental role in University initiatives, encourage student and student organization participation in same, as well as other University-wide occasions and special events.
- Present training workshops and seminars for students and staff.
- Develop an understanding of the student development field.
- Assist with the cultivation of positive community relations.
- Contribute to the overall success of the Center for Student Engagement, Student/Academic Affairs, and the University by performing all other essential duties as assigned.
Administrative and Operational Responsibilities
- Participate in and contribute to the strategic, operational and budget planning processes of the department.
- Provide departmental and divisional support as necessary.
- Acquire and maintain a strong working knowledge of related university departments, systems and processes.
- Develop and maintain strong working relationships with professional colleagues on and off campus.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the front office area and back storage room.
Qualifications
Practical Experience:
Bachelor's degree required, Master's degree preferred. Experience in campus activities, leadership, orientation and/or other relevant experience is strongly preferred.
Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Needed:
- Ability to translate a mission and vision into successful programs and services. Ability to plan, organize, set priorities, implement and evaluate programs and services.
- Strong service orientation and ability to relate effectively with diverse individuals and groups at all levels of an organization.
- Ability to work collegially and collaboratively to develop effective student-oriented services. Ability to communicate effectively and by using a wide variety of tools and mediums.
- Proven "hands on" and energetic team leader. Must be able to generate the confidence and trust of individuals and the extended campus community.
- Demonstrated ability to be productive, deliver high quality work, take initiative, use good judgment and solve problems.
- Strong ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and handle heavy workloads under pressure and within deadlines.
- Ability to produce quality results with limited resources.
- Knowledge and skills with automated computer systems, new technologies, records management, database systems to support service and operational needs; skill with use of university systems within three months of appointment.