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Graduate Student Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Umd

Graduate Assistant

College Park, MD · On-site

$26K - $27K/mo

... Graduate Assistant to provide administrative support to the undergraduate office and general ... Advising undergraduate students in this department involves helping with course selection ...

Umd

Graduate Assistant

College Park, MD · On-site

The students in the MLAW Program will be exploring the relationship between justice, law and ... Graduate Assistants will typically not be assigned to more than one course with discussion sections ...

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All JobsGraduate Student JobsGraduate Student Jobs in Washington, DC

Graduate Student information

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$8

$18

$27

How much do graduate student jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate student in Washington, DC is $18.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.
More about Graduate Student jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Student jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Graduate Student jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Student jobs in Washington, DC? For Graduate Student jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Student jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Student jobs in Washington, DC are:
Graduate Student jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Student job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,034 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Graduate Office Assistant (Student Wage)

The University of Virginia

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$22/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

207th of 616 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The UVA Northern Virginia team is seeking a currently enrolled graduate student to support office operations at our new co-learning space in Fairfax, Virginia. This role will support the Office Manager by maintaining a welcoming environment, running the front reception desk and ensuring smooth daily operation primarily during evening and weekend hours in a part-time capacity.
Launched as part of UVA's 2030 Great and Good Strategic Plan, the mission of UVA | Northern Virginia is to connect Grounds in Charlottesville with Northern Virginia and vice versa. UVA reimagined how the academic rigor of Charlottesville could be channeled north to create UVA | Northern Virginia - a knowledge tap of educational programs, research, mentorship, and events to support Northern Virginia working professionals in parallel with their careers. UVA | Northern Virginia is the center point of UVA's efforts to better serve the commonwealth by bringing new and existing academic programs across disciplines and modalities - in-person, online, and hybrid - to Northern Virginia.
Key Responsibilities
  • Oversee the front desk serving as the primary point of contact for visitors, students, faculty and staff providing support and answering questions as needed.
  • Monitor and maintain security (facility access), cleanliness, and functionality of classrooms, office spaces, and common areas during shifts.
  • Assist in setting up and breaking down events, meetings, classes, etc. Ensure AV and other technology equipment are in working order and set up.
  • Assist with classroom, desk and space and reservations.
  • Answer phones, maintain records and office correspondence.
  • Additional projects and responsibilities as needed.

Required Qualifications
  • Current graduate student enrolled at UVA.
  • Strong communication and customer service skills.
  • Strong written and verbal skills.
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
  • Works well on teams and self-directed during unsupervised shifts.
  • Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and evenings.

Preferred Skills
  • Experience in public-facing roles.
  • Ability to troubleshoot basic technology equipment issues

Work Environment
This position requires regular presence in the office, including nights and weekends. Some light physical tasks may be involved such as moving tables, chairs and equipment.
Position Compensation: $22.00 Hourly
Please include a resume and cover letter with your application.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education: Bachelor's degree. Registered as a UVA graduate student.
Experience: none
Licensure: None
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.

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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

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