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Graduate Student Summer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Graduate Student Assistant

Pittsburgh, PA

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Student jobs do not automatically roll over to the next academic year or summer. Chatham University strives to promote a campus environment that understands and embraces multiculturalism while ...

Graduate Student Assistant

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Student jobs do not automatically roll over to the next academic year or summer. Chatham University strives to promote a campus environment that understands and embraces multiculturalism while ...

Diesel Student - Summer Position

Brandon, SD · On-site

$25.25 - $33.25/hr

The ideal candidate for this position is a recent graduate planning to start a diesel technology program in the Fall, or current diesel student looking to work during the summer. This is a temporary ...

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Graduate Student Summer information

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How much do graduate student summer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate student summer in the United States is $16.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graduate Student during a summer research or internship program, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Student in a summer program, you need a strong academic background in your field, foundational research or analytical skills, and relevant coursework or degrees in progress. Familiarity with research databases, statistical analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or MATLAB), and laboratory or project management tools is often essential. Initiative, effective communication, and adaptability help distinguish students who can collaborate well and tackle new challenges. These skills ensure you maximize learning opportunities, contribute meaningfully to projects, and build professional relationships during the limited summer term.

What is the difference between Graduate Student Summer vs Research Intern?

AspectGraduate Student SummerResearch Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled graduate student, relevant courseworkUndergraduate or graduate student, often with related coursework
Work EnvironmentAcademic or corporate research settings, project-basedResearch labs, academic institutions, industry research divisions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, corporationsUniversities, research labs, corporate R&D
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding summer research opportunities for graduate studentsExploring research internship options for students

Graduate Student Summer positions typically target enrolled graduate students seeking research experience during summer breaks, often within academic or corporate research environments. Research Intern roles are similar but may include undergraduate students or those at different education levels. Both roles focus on research projects, but Graduate Student Summer positions are more tailored for graduate-level coursework and thesis work, whereas Research Interns may have broader eligibility.

What are some common challenges graduate student summer interns face, and how can they prepare for them?

Graduate student summer interns often encounter challenges such as balancing independent research or project work with learning new skills in a condensed timeframe. Adapting to a new organizational culture and collaborating with experienced professionals can also be initially daunting. To prepare, interns should proactively communicate with mentors, set clear goals early on, and seek feedback regularly. Building relationships with team members and participating in group meetings can help ease the transition and maximize the internship experience.

What are graduate student summer positions?

Graduate student summer positions are temporary roles or internships offered to graduate students during the summer months, typically lasting 8-12 weeks. These opportunities allow students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study, conduct research, or work in industry settings. They can help students build professional networks, enhance their skills, and sometimes earn academic credit or stipends. Such positions are valuable for career development and may lead to future full-time opportunities.
More about Graduate Student Summer jobs
What cities are hiring for Graduate Student Summer jobs? Cities with the most Graduate Student Summer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Student jobs? The most popular types of Graduate Student jobs are:
What states have the most Graduate Student Summer jobs? States with the most job openings for Graduate Student Summer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Graduate Student Summer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 58% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,464 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Graduate Student Mentor for the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Summer Program 2026

Rutgers University

Piscataway, NJ • On-site

$8K/mo

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Rutgers University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

213th of 532 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title
Graduate Student Mentor for the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Summer Program 2026
Department
Trio Programs McNair Program
Salary Details
$8,000
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, based on position, which includes:
  • Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
  • Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
  • Employee and dependent educational benefits
  • Life insurance coverage
  • Employee discounts programs

For detailed information on benefits and eligibility, please visit: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/benefits/benefits-overview.
Posting Summary
The Graduate Student Mentor position's primary responsibility is to provide support, guidance, and mentorship to the McNair Program Participants. They will serve as a resource for participants. They will be responsible for the following: attending workshops, meetings as needed during the summer and help participants with planning and preparing their research presentations, and require on-going assessment of climate, issues, or concerns.
Position Status
Part Time
Posting Number
26FA0547
Posting Open Date
06/02/2026
Posting Close Date
06/10/2026
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • Must have a valid driver's license & access to a vehicle
  • Must have a Bachelor's Degree
  • Enrolled in a graduate program (preferred program of doctoral study)
  • Must demonstrate knowledge of scholarly research and statistical data; shared insight of path to doctorate
  • Must have a flexible schedule to attend meetings and programs
  • Must have undergraduate research experience and/or participation in similar programs(i.e. TRIO)
  • Must have strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
  • Must be able to commit full-time employment for the duration of the Summer Institute
  • Must be available, accessible, and aware for McNair Summer Research Institute (from hire date to commencement of the program, include weekends)
  • Instruction of related graduate school preparation, writing intensive, and or research (introduction to research, research methodology, qualitative/quantitative).
  • Outside commitments must not impact on attendance and facilitation of classes, workshops, meetings, activities/trips or direct support to students

Certifications/Licenses
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Canvas
  • Zoom

Preferred Qualifications
Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Overview
Prior to the start of the Summer Institute Program:
  • Attend pre-summer institute meeting for participants
  • Attend pre-planning meeting prior to summer institute for staff

Prepare to facilitate at least (four) workshops (approximately 2 hours), incoordination with other Graduate Student Mentor(s) as it relates to graduate school preparation. This includes all supplemental materials.
During the Summer Institute Program:
Instruction
  • Instruct "Presentation Skills" class once per week for 2 hours per class (typically Fridays), including update readings, resources, and course materials. Syllabus will be provided (updates may be considered).
  • Responsible for grade submission to project Director or designee.
  • All affiliated instructional materials to be provided to project staff for audit no later than last day of summer institute.
  • Must be familiar with online/virtual (remote) instruction via Canvas (e.g. Conference) platform.
  • May be required to conduct instruction online/virtual (remote); should be prepared to conduct remote instruction.

Administration & Supervision
  • Assist McNair staff with supervision of student programs, events, and major functions
  • Assist in the address, mediation, and resolve student issues and concerns
  • Communicate concerns, complaints, and compliments to the program professional staff
  • Attend all required staff meetings, including meetings scheduled by the Director or designee
  • Attend all classes/sessions, activities, and trips as assigned
  • Develop and execute workshops or scholarly activities for students in preparation for graduate and doctoral programs. Assist participants understanding information learned during instruction, workshops, and activities.
  • Must assist with facilitation of the McNair Summer Research Symposium rehearsal and preparation for scholars (typically 1-2 weeks prior to symposium, duration 2-4 days include evenings and weekends)
  • Research, develop assessment, evaluation and reports that are related to project grants and related areas

Assist on special projects, such as program planning (e.g. EOF Graduate Education Preparation), develop evaluation, and course content development
Mentorship
  • Serve as a mentor to all program participants
  • Be accessible and available to talk with program participants; hold regular accommodating hours to mentor and talk with program participants
  • Provide support, guidance, and oversight to program participants
  • Prepare, and facilitate, workshops, and group meetings as needed
  • Must assist participants in the preparation and planning of final written paper, poster, and presentation.
  • Must meet assigned participants as a group and individually, at least once per week, at minimum hour and as requested, to provide substantial feedback on research project paper, poster, presentation in conjunction with instructors; serve as a resource and mentor; guidance in the areas of research, graduate school preparation pathway, process, and culture
  • Provide direction and or support by helping participants prepare for graduate studies and guidance related to graduate school process and research opportunities

Statement
Posting Details
Special Instructions to Applicants
Quick Link to Posting
https://jobs.rutgers.edu/postings/276182
Campus
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Home Location Campus
Livingston (RU-New Brunswick)
City
Piscataway
State
NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement

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