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Graduate Program Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Graduate Administrative Aid

Hammond, IN · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

... program in CHESS, will be offered a 10 hour per week hourly-paid stipend. Students with a .25 Graduate Assistantship (as defined by the Purdue University Graduate School Policies) are eligible to ...

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Graduate Program Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$22.1K

$47.1K

$64.9K

How much do graduate program assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate program assistant in Chicago, IL is $47,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,600.00 and $48,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate program assistant?

Graduate Program Assistants are staff members who provide administrative and operational support to graduate programs within universities or colleges. Their responsibilities often include coordinating admissions processes, assisting students and faculty, managing records, organizing events, and ensuring compliance with institutional policies. They play a crucial role in maintaining smooth communication among students, faculty, and external departments, helping to create an efficient and supportive academic environment for graduate students.

How does a graduate program assistant typically collaborate with faculty and students in their daily work?

Graduate Program Assistants play a key liaison role, supporting both faculty and graduate students by coordinating schedules, managing program communications, and assisting with the administration of academic processes like admissions or thesis submissions. They often handle inquiries from students, organize program events, and ensure faculty have the resources needed for teaching and advising. Regular collaboration with academic advisors, department chairs, and administrative offices is essential to keep the program running smoothly and to address any issues promptly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate program assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Program Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a background in office administration, often supported by a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with student information systems, scheduling software, and Microsoft Office Suite is typically required. Exceptional communication, customer service, and problem-solving abilities help you effectively support students and faculty. These skills ensure efficient program operations, positive student experiences, and smooth coordination of academic activities.

What is the difference between Graduate Program Assistant vs Research Assistant?

AspectGraduate Program AssistantResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically a graduate student or recent graduateUsually a student or early-career professional with relevant skills
Work EnvironmentAdministrative settings, academic institutions, or program officesLaboratories, research centers, or field sites
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, and educational programsResearch institutions, universities, and labs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding program support roles in academiaResearch project involvement and technical tasks

The Graduate Program Assistant primarily handles administrative and program support tasks within academic settings, often requiring a background in education or related fields. In contrast, Research Assistants focus on supporting research projects, often requiring technical skills and familiarity with research methodologies. While both roles are common in academic environments, they serve different functions and skill sets.

How much does a graduate program assistant get paid?

The salary for a graduate program assistant typically ranges from $12 to $20 per hour, depending on the institution, location, and level of experience. Some positions may also offer stipends or benefits, especially in research or academic settings.

What qualifications do you need to be a graduate program assistant?

To be a graduate program assistant, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree or current enrollment in a graduate program, strong organizational and communication skills, and proficiency with office software. Some positions may require prior experience in administrative support or related fields.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Program Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Graduate Program Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Graduate Program Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Program Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Graduate Program Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,100 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Graduate Assistant, Strength & Conditioning

Purdue University

Hammond, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

314th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Graduate Assistant, Strength & Conditioning
City: Hammond
Job Description:
University Profile
Part of the internationally respected Purdue University system, Purdue University Northwest offers world-class educational opportunities at an excellent value on two culturally diverse, student-centered campuses, located in Northwest Indiana and near Chicago. You can have all the perks of a world-class city just a short drive away or enjoy the natural beauty of the Indiana Dunes National Park and Lake Michigan just 15 miles away. Purdue Northwest has approximately 9,000 students and offers more than 70-degree programs at the baccalaureate, masters, and doctoral levels. Purdue Northwest Athletics consists of 530 student athletes and 22 sports competing in NCAA Division II, Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, and the American Collegiate Hockey Association. Intercollegiate athletic teams are fielded in men's and women's ice hockey, baseball, men's and women's basketball, men's and women's cross country, women's flag football, men's and women's golf, men's and women's soccer, men's and women's tennis, men's and women's track and field, softball, stunt, and women's volleyball. For more information on the Purdue University Northwest athletics program please go to PNWathletics.com. Academically, PNW student-athletes have achieved 21 consecutive semesters with a combined GPA of 3.0 or above. Athletically, PNW has secured 20 championships since moving to NCAA Division II in 2016-17.
Job Summary
The Graduate Assistant for Strength & Conditioning must be enrolled in a graduate program at PNW for the Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 academic year. This individual will be offered a 20 hour per week hourly-paid stipend. The Graduate Assistant (GA) is a being hired to support the design, implementation, and supervision of comprehensive strength and conditioning programs for NCAA Division II and ACHA student-athletes. Working under the direction of the Director of Sports Performance, this position assists in enhancing athletic performance, reducing injury risk, and promoting overall student-athlete wellness while pursuing a graduate degree. The role contributes to a positive training environment that aligns with institutional values and NCAA Division II philosophy.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assist the Director of Sports Performance in the design and implementation of sport-specific strength and conditioning programs
  • Monitor the front desk in the Fitness Center
  • Instruct student-athletes on proper lifting techniques, speed development, agility, and conditioning
  • Monitor workouts to ensure safety, efficiency, and adherence to program goals
  • Track and evaluate student-athlete performance metrics and progress
  • Collaborate with coaching staff to align training with sport-specific demands
  • Assist with performance testing (e.g., speed, strength, agility assessments).
  • Provide motivation, accountability, and mentorship to student-athletes.

Professional Development
  • Adhere to NCAA Division II, conference, and institutional policies and procedures
  • Maintain required certifications (e.g., CPR/AED, First Aid)
  • Participate in continuing education and professional development opportunities for strength and conditioning

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree required, acceptance into a graduate program at Purdue University Northwest
  • Previous experience in strength and conditioning (internship or collegiate experience preferred)
  • Strong knowledge of exercise science principles and training techniques
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings and days.

Education
  • Must be a PNW student enrolled in any graduate program on the Hammond campus

FLSA Status
Non-Exempt

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