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Graduate Student Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Graduate Student information

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$6

$15

$22

How much do graduate student jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate student in Iowa is $15.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $17.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate student?

Graduate students are individuals who have completed an undergraduate degree and are pursuing advanced studies, typically at the master's or doctoral level. They enroll in graduate programs to gain deeper knowledge in a specific field, conduct research, and develop specialized skills. Graduate students may also take on teaching or research assistantships as part of their academic training. Their studies often culminate in a thesis, dissertation, or comprehensive exams, depending on the program.

How can I get a job as a graduate student?

The qualifications that you need to get a job as a graduate student include enrollment in a master’s or Ph.D. program and fundamental research or teaching skills. Employers usually select graduate degree employees for positions that are relevant to the programs in which they study. A biology graduate student, for example, can work as a teaching assistant for an undergraduate biology class or serve as an assistant on a biology-related research project. However, you may occasionally find work outside of your specialization if there is some crossover. Some employers require applicants to meet grade-point requirements or complete basic coursework before applying.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate student?

To thrive as a Graduate Student, you need strong research abilities, subject-matter expertise from an undergraduate degree, and critical thinking skills. Familiarity with academic databases, reference management tools like EndNote or Zotero, and data analysis software such as SPSS or R is often required. Time management, perseverance, and effective communication are essential soft skills for balancing coursework, research, and collaboration. These competencies are vital for successfully navigating demanding academic environments and producing impactful scholarly work.

What are common challenges graduate students face when balancing research, coursework, and teaching responsibilities?

Graduate students often juggle multiple responsibilities simultaneously, such as conducting research, completing coursework, and fulfilling teaching assistant duties. Managing time effectively and setting clear priorities can be challenging, especially during peak periods like exams or grant deadlines. Many students find it helpful to communicate regularly with their advisors and peers, utilize campus resources for academic support, and develop strong organizational habits to stay on track. Building a supportive network and seeking guidance early can alleviate stress and help maintain a healthy work-life balance.

What is the difference between Graduate Student vs Research Assistant?

AspectGraduate StudentResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsEnrolled in a graduate program, often pursuing a master's or PhDTypically has a relevant degree; may be a current student or recent graduate
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, labs, classroomsResearch labs, universities, research centers
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, academic researchUniversities, research institutions, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for academic and research rolesSpecialized research roles within academia

The main difference is that a Graduate Student is enrolled in a degree program and may undertake research as part of their coursework, while a Research Assistant is typically employed to assist with research projects, often holding a relevant degree or current student status. Both roles are common in academic settings and involve research activities, but their primary purpose and employment status differ.

What are good jobs for graduate students?

Graduate students often pursue part-time or flexible jobs such as research assistantships, teaching assistantships, tutoring, or internships related to their field of study. These roles help gain experience, develop skills, and often accommodate a student’s schedule while providing income. Additionally, roles in retail, hospitality, or administrative support are common for supplementary income.
More about Graduate Student jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Student jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Graduate Student jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Student jobs in Iowa?

For Graduate Student jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Graduate Student jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Student jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Graduate Student jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Graduate Student job openings:

Graduate Student jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Student job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,371 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Graduate Student Services Specialist II - EMBA Coordinator

Ames, IA • On-site

Iowa State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 623 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Iowa State Universityexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Position Title:Graduate Student Services Specialist II - EMBA CoordinatorJob Group:Professional & ScientificRequired Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor's degree and 2 years of related experienceJob Description:

The Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business at Iowa State University is seeking applications for a Graduate Student Services Specialist II - Executive MBA (EMBA) Coordinator. This position supports the administration of the Executive MBA program, which is designed for experienced professionals, by coordinating student services, program operations, recruitment, events, and experiential learning opportunities. The role serves as a primary point of contact for prospective and current students, faculty, staff, alumni, corporate partners, and other program stakeholders while ensuring a high-quality student experience. The position also supports broader Graduate Programs initiatives, including graduate study tours and cross-functional student services.

Success in this role requires exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, along with strong organizational, event planning, and relationship management abilities. The successful candidate will demonstrate sound judgment, professionalism, and discretion while managing confidential information. This individual is self-motivated, adaptable, and committed to continuous learning, with the ability to take initiative, manage competing priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced environment. The Graduate Programs Office is a collaborative and innovative team dedicated to enhancing the graduate student experience and advancing the long-term success of graduate programs within the Ivy College of Business.

Example of Duties

  • Coordinate marketing, recruitment, and student services for the Executive MBA (EMBA) program.
  • Plan and execute on-campus and off-campus events, including executive education programs, receptions, and networking events.
  • Negotiate contracts, pricing, services, and logistics with venues and vendors in Ames, Des Moines, and other locations.
  • Coordinate domestic and international study trips, including travel, accommodations, company visits, and class-based experiential learning activities.
  • Process student applications, admissions, registration, graduation, and ensure compliance with program requirements and university policies.
  • Track student progress, learning outcomes, and program metrics; prepare reports as needed.
  • Monitor program budgets, tuition billing, and payment processes.
  • Cross-train on admissions and student records functions to support all Graduate Programs students.
  • Provide administrative and operational support for Graduate Programs Office initiatives.
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for prospective and current students, faculty, staff, executives, alumni, and external partners.
  • Build and maintain relationships with corporate executives, human resource professionals, and industry partners.
  • Coordinate executive speaker engagements and collaborate with campus partners to strengthen external partnerships.
  • Represent executive programs through travel to corporate locations, conferences, and recruitment events as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience planning and coordinating events, conferences, or executive-level programs.
  • Experience with student, program, or professional recruitment.
  • Experience working with adult, executive, or professional learners.
  • Experience coordinating domestic and/or international travel and logistics.


Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
  • Life insurance and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellbeing program
  • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:RegularNumber of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timePay Grade:PS807Original Posting Date:July 27, 2026Posting Close Date:August 18, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19644

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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