1

Graduate Program Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$40K - $58K/yr

Duties for the graduate programs within the college include: * Act as the main point of contact ... Manage registration and track results for the qualifying exam. * Assist with the processing and ...

Job Title Graduate Program Coordinator I Agency Texas A&M University Health Science Center ... Prepares internal data summaries to assist leadership in program evaluation and resource allocation.

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Graduate Program Assistant information

See salary details

$21.5K

$45.7K

$63K

How much do graduate program assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate program assistant in the United States is $45,721.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $47,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Graduate Program Assistants?

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.

How much is a graduate assistant paid?

Graduate Program Assistants typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on the institution, location, and level of experience. Some programs offer stipends or hourly wages, and the position often requires a commitment of 10-20 hours per week while pursuing graduate studies.

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.

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 a graduate assistant program?

A graduate assistant program is a structured opportunity for graduate students to work part-time in academic or administrative roles within a university or college. These programs often provide stipends, tuition waivers, and valuable experience in areas such as research, teaching, or student services, typically requiring a commitment of 10-20 hours per week.

What qualifications do you need to be a grad assistant?

Graduate Program Assistants typically need to be enrolled in a graduate program or pursuing a master's or doctoral degree. Relevant skills include strong organizational, communication, and computer skills, often with experience in office software or research tools. Some positions may require a minimum GPA or specific coursework related to the department or field.

Do grad assistants get paid?

Graduate program assistants typically receive a stipend or salary in exchange for their work, which may include tasks such as administrative support or research assistance. Compensation varies by institution and program, and some positions may also include tuition waivers or benefits.
More about Graduate Program Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Graduate Program Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Graduate Program Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Program jobs? The most popular types of Graduate Program jobs are:
What states have the most Graduate Program Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Graduate Program Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Program Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Program Assistant jobs are:
Infographic showing various Graduate Program Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,721 per year, or $22 per hour.
Graduate Program Support Coordinator

$40K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Pennsylvania State University, College of Engineering is seeking an energetic, motivated, and detail-oriented full-time Graduate Program Support.

The position would support the School of Engineering Design and Innovation with the Doctor of Engineering in Engineering program. This position reports to a college-wide graduate program supervisor and responsibilities include working collaboratively with graduate program staff across the college to coordinate and administer key aspects of the college's graduate education portfolio.

Duties for the graduate programs within the college include:

  • Act as the main point of contact commencing with the application process through to graduation.

  • Orchestrate all levels of planning, preparation, and execution of various graduate events.

  • Update graduate program communications, ensuring statistics, logistics, and policies are up to date.

  • Coordinate the graduate student recruitment and admissions process (includes Offer Letters and Terms of Offer); respond to prospective student inquiries; arrange campus visits (travel, lodging); monitor and update GRADS (Graduate Admissions Decision System) for applicants; and plan and coordinate the new student orientation.

  • Assist students in course-related functions such as drop, add, and scheduling. Answer curriculum and graduation requirement questions.

  • Coordinate and process faculty graduate teaching assignments for Department Heads' review and approval. Manage advisor grad faculty status for committees

  • Maintain statistics on course registration counts, including research credits.

  • Maintain graduate student records, including advisor assignments and milestones, and ensure accuracy and compliance with University record security, retention schedules, and FERPA requirements.

  • Monitor and update student progress toward achieving critical milestones, schedule all comprehensive and praxis exams and final thesis/dissertation/praxis, and file the appropriate documentation with the Graduate School. Manage registration and track results for the qualifying exam.

  • Assist with the processing and oversight of financial commitments.

  • Assist with the graduate curricular proposal process utilizing CourseLeaf Curriculum Inventory Management (CIM) system.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or High School (HS) 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None

Preferred Experience:

  • This position will work primarily with remote students. Candidates must be detail-oriented and a team player; have excellent customer service, communication, interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills; and be able to handle multiple tasks and work independently and in a team environment. Proficiency in LionPath, Workday, PowerBI/iTwo, Zoom GRADS, SharePoint, and Microsoft Office 365 (Outlook, Word, Excel) is highly desired.

Additional Information:

  • The College of Engineering is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. The hours of this position will be Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This position will be hybrid and require on-site work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $40,608.00 - $58,836.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster

PA State Labor Law Poster

Penn State Policies

Copyright Information

Hotlines


Pennsylvania State University logo

About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

Social media