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Graduate Teaching Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Professor

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$255K - $275K/yr

Assistant Professor Hiring Department : Accounting Location : Chicago, IL USA Requisition ID ... The position will encompass research, undergraduate and graduate teaching, service to the ...

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Graduate Teaching Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$17

$27

How much do graduate teaching assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate teaching assistant in Chicago, IL is $17.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.12 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate teaching assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, you typically need a strong grasp of the subject matter, enrollment in a relevant graduate program, and effective organizational skills. Familiarity with learning management systems (such as Blackboard or Canvas), grading software, and classroom technology is often expected. Excellent communication, time management, and the ability to provide constructive feedback are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure you can support faculty, facilitate student learning, and maintain efficient, productive classroom environments.

What is the difference between Graduate Teaching Assistant vs Teaching Fellow?

AspectGraduate Teaching AssistantTeaching Fellow
Required CredentialsEnrolled graduate student, often pursuing a master's or PhDTypically a graduate student or recent graduate with relevant academic background
Work EnvironmentAssisting professors in undergraduate classes, grading, tutoringLeading or co-teaching courses, delivering lectures, developing curriculum
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, academic institutionsUniversities, colleges, academic institutions

While both roles involve supporting higher education, Graduate Teaching Assistants primarily assist with grading and student support, whereas Teaching Fellows often take on more teaching responsibilities, including leading classes. Both positions are common in academic settings and require graduate-level credentials.

What are some common challenges faced by graduate teaching assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as grading, leading discussion sections, and assisting with course preparation, while also managing their own coursework and research. Balancing these tasks can be challenging, especially during peak periods like exams. Effective time management, clear communication with supervising faculty, and seeking support from fellow GTAs or campus resources can help manage these demands. Additionally, understanding expectations early and staying organized are key strategies for success in this role.

What is a graduate teaching assistant?

Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) are graduate students who support faculty members in teaching undergraduate or graduate courses. Their responsibilities can include leading discussion sections, grading assignments and exams, holding office hours, and sometimes lecturing or helping develop course materials. GTAs gain valuable teaching experience while pursuing their own advanced degrees, and their work helps support the instructional mission of universities. The specific duties and expectations for GTAs vary by institution and academic department.

Is being a graduate teaching assistant worth it?

A graduate teaching assistant (GTA) position provides valuable teaching experience, often includes tuition waivers or stipends, and can enhance academic and professional skills. However, it typically involves a significant time commitment and may offer modest pay, so its worth depends on individual career goals and financial needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Teaching jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Graduate Teaching jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Graduate Teaching Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Graduate Teaching Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Teaching Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,678 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Assistant Teacher - Fourth Grade (2026-2027 School Year; Begins Late August 2026)

Francis W. Parker School

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Assistant Teacher - Fourth Grade

(2026-2027 School Year; Begins Late August 2026)

Job Summary:

Assistant Teachers work collaboratively with the Classroom Teacher in all day-to-day aspects of classroom management: teaching, assisting students, grading papers, organizing classroom activities, clerical duties, attending parent conferences, etc. Additional involvement, such as parent communication, curricular planning, consulting with other faculty, or contributing to student evaluation and documentation, may occur if the Classroom Teacher welcomes such involvement or deems it appropriate.

Assistant Teachers for the coming school year (180 workdays) are scheduled to work at least 7.5 hours per day, Monday through Friday. Specific start and end time may vary, depending on grade level and assignment, beginning at or around 8:00 am and ending at or around 3:30 pm. Recess, lunch, and dismissal duties are as assigned.

Assistant Teachers have the opportunity to learn under the supervision and mentorship of an experienced lead teacher; the role is a one year commitment, and Assistants who wish to return for a second or third year are recommended by teachers and appointed by the Head of Lower or Intermediate School. In addition, Assistant Teachers participate in various professional development activities scheduled periodically throughout the school year during school hours.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in a related field required
  • Ideal candidates are graduate students pursuing a Master’s degree in Education, or recently certified teachers
  • A commitment to further developing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging related skillset
  • Enthusiastic desire and commitment to learn and improve professionally

Compensation:

Starting rate: $24/hour

Assistant Teacher employee agreements are written for 180 school days and paid September-June. Francis W. Parker School provides an excellent employee benefits program, including but not limited to: health and dental insurance, term and supplemental life insurance, flexible spending accounts (FSA’s), commuter benefits, and 403b retirement plan. Information on Parker’s comprehensive benefits package can be found here.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter with a resume (no telephone inquiries please).

The faculty, staff and administration of Francis W. Parker School are integral parts of the School's community. Through their passion, dedication and commitment to the School's mission, they create and support an environment where exceptional child-centered learning can occur.

Francis W. Parker School is committed to cultivating a community of dedicated students, parents, faculty and staff, trustees, administrators and alumni, who acknowledge, respect, and esteem diversity in our school; and who reflect, through their presence, the diversity of Chicago communities and the wider world. Francis W. Parker School is an equal opportunity employer.