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Graduate Program Assistant Jobs in Grand Rapids, MI

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Graduate Program Assistant information

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$20.6K

$43.9K

$60.5K

How much do graduate program assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate program assistant in Grand Rapids, MI is $43,912.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $45,600.00 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 Grand Rapids, MI?

The most popular types of Graduate Program jobs in Grand Rapids, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Program Assistant jobs in Grand Rapids, MI?

For Graduate Program Assistant jobs in Grand Rapids, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Graduate Program Assistant jobs in Grand Rapids, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Program Assistant jobs in Grand Rapids, MI are:

What cities near Grand Rapids, MI are hiring for Graduate Program Assistant jobs?

Cities near Grand Rapids, MI with the most Graduate Program Assistant job openings:

Graduate Program Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Program Assistant job openings in Grand Rapids, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,912 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Assistant Dean - Van Andel Graduate School

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Van Andel Institute
201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Van Andel Instituteexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to improving human health. We are pioneers in the fight against cancer, Parkinson's, and other diseases. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and educators.
VAI Graduate School is hiring for an Assistant Dean. VAI Graduate School develops future leaders in biomedical research through an intense, problem-based learning focused Ph.D. degree in molecular and cell biology. By combining rigorous, inquiry-based coursework with extensive experience in laboratories led by the Institute's expert faculty, the Graduate School prepares students for productive careers in biomedical research and beyond. The Graduate School thrives within a collaborative state-of-the-art research environment, currently ranked #3 in the Nature Index of U.S. independent research institutes, and offers access to extensive core technology and collaborators in Grand Rapids, Michigan and around the world.
Position Summary:
The Assistant Dean, reporting to the Dean of the Graduate School, provides creative and effective leadership for students, faculty and staff to support doctoral student academic milestones, predoctoral fellowship and grant development, scientific writing, and professional development programming. The Assistant Dean partners with faculty and Graduate School Staff to promote student success and contributes to the continuous improvement of Graduate School programs, policies, and academic initiatives.
This position is ideally suited for an accomplished biomedical scientist who is passionate about mentoring trainees and is excited to leverage prior experience as an independent investigator to shape graduate education. The Assistant Dean serves as a bridge between the research enterprise and graduate education, ensuring that students develop the scientific, professional, and leadership skills necessary for successful careers in biomedical research.
Responsibilities:
  • Provide individualized guidance and mentorship to doctoral students as they progress through key academic milestones including lab selection, formation of the thesis advisory committee, comprehensive examination, and dissertation defense.

  • Serve as Graduate School Staff Liaison to the Comprehensive Exam and Dissertation Organizing Committee by coordinating committee activities, supporting policy development and implementation, preparing materials for committee review, and communicating recommendations to Graduate School leadership.

  • Develop, direct, and teach graduate-level courses or other programming focused on scientific writing, fellowship and grant preparation, and other areas aligned with the candidate's expertise and Graduate School needs.

  • Identify and promote external fellowship opportunities and provide individualized guidance to students through proposal development in collaboration with the Office of Sponsored Research and student dissertation advisor.

  • Support accreditation efforts, particularly regarding student academic milestones.

  • Contribute to the development and implementation of Graduate School academic policies and resources, including the academic catalog, student handbook, and recruitment materials.

  • Represent the Graduate School within the institute and in external professional and academic communities.

  • Responsibly steward VAI and Graduate School resources.

  • Perform other tasks at the request of the Dean that support the mission of the Graduate School.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. or terminal degree and postdoctoral experience in a biological/biomedical science discipline.

  • Experience mentoring graduate students and/or postdoctoral fellows.

  • Experience in writing or mentoring fellowship or grant applications.

  • Teaching experience in higher education, preferably at the graduate level.

  • Strong analytical reasoning skills, oral and written communication skills, and project management skills.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • 4-6 years of independent faculty experience leading a biological/biomedical science lab.

  • Leadership experience in graduate education (e.g., Graduate Program Director, Director of Graduate Studies, Assistant Dean, or equivalent).

  • Experience mentoring graduate students through dissertation research and major academic milestones.

  • Demonstrated interest in learner-centered graduate education, curriculum development, and professional development.

  • Experience collaborating across research, education, and administrative units.

  • A record of innovation or continuous improvement in graduate education, mentoring, or trainee development.

Compensation and Benefits
All full-time employees of Van Andel Institute are eligible for benefits, effective Day One! The salary you can expect in this role is based on your experience and skills.
How to apply:
We would love to have a conversation with you! The first step in this conversation is your application.
In your application, please provide the following in a single combined PDF file:
  • cover letter highlighting key qualifications,
  • current curriculum vitae with complete publication list,
  • names and contact information of 3 references.

Applications received by September 1, 2026, can be assured of full consideration. Interviews will take place in September and October with an expected decision in October/November. If you have any difficulty uploading your application or any questions, please email Natalie Hartford at Natalie.Hartford@vai.org
About Van Andel Institute
Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to nearly 500 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with national and international collaborators to foster discovery. The Institute's scientists study the origins of cancer, Parkinson's and other diseases and translate their findings into breakthrough prevention and treatment strategies. Our educators develop inquiry-based approaches for K-12 education to help students and teachers prepare the next generation of problem-solvers, while our Graduate School offers a rigorous, research-intensive Ph.D. program in molecular and cellular biology.
VAI is committed to excellence through broad participation and diverse perspectives. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences who share our passion for innovation and collaboration.
Van Andel Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer.
As Van Andel Institute is a drug free employer, all prospective new employees undergo a urinalysis/drug test as part of our pre-employment process. This is a 7-panel drug screen and it includes testing for Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP, Barbiturates, and Benzodiazepines.
About Grand Rapids, MI
Van Andel Institute is in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan in the center of the Medical Mile. A remarkable combination of a cosmopolitan atmosphere and small-town warmth, Grand Rapids is known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community. It's fun affordable and family-friendly.
Located on the banks of the Grand River, Grand Rapids offers all the big-city excitement you'd expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas. The downtown area is safe and clean with an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.

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