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Operations Graduate Assistant Jobs in Des Moines, IA

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Operations Graduate Assistant information

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$10

$19

$30

How much do operations graduate assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for operations graduate assistant in Des Moines, IA is $19.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operations graduate assistant?

Operations Graduate Assistants are graduate students who support the operations of a department, program, or organization, often within a university or college setting. Their responsibilities typically include administrative tasks, event coordination, data management, and assisting with daily operational needs. These roles provide hands-on experience in organizational management and help graduate students develop professional skills while pursuing their academic studies.

What are some common challenges faced by an operations graduate assistant, and how can they be addressed?

Operations Graduate Assistants often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as supporting daily departmental operations, coordinating events, and managing administrative tasks. A common challenge is balancing these diverse duties while adapting to shifting priorities. To succeed, it’s important to develop strong organizational skills, communicate proactively with supervisors, and seek regular feedback. Building relationships with team members can also help delegate tasks effectively and learn best practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operations graduate assistant?

To thrive as an Operations Graduate Assistant, you typically need a bachelor's degree (or enrollment in a graduate program), strong organizational skills, and a solid understanding of workflow processes. Familiarity with project management software, data analysis tools like Excel, and university administrative systems is often required. Exceptional communication, time management, and problem-solving abilities help you support department operations and coordinate tasks effectively. These skills ensure efficient support for faculty and staff, contributing to smooth daily operations and successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Operations Graduate Assistant vs Administrative Assistant?

AspectOperations Graduate AssistantAdministrative Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a graduate degree, some experience in operations or managementHigh school diploma or equivalent, often some experience in office administration
Work EnvironmentAcademic or organizational settings, supporting operations or projectsOffice environments, handling clerical and administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, non-profitsBusinesses, government agencies, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level operational roles in academia or non-profitsCompared for general office support roles

The Operations Graduate Assistant typically involves supporting operational functions within academic or organizational settings, often requiring a graduate-level background. In contrast, an Administrative Assistant focuses on clerical and administrative tasks in various industries. While both roles support organizational efficiency, the graduate assistant role emphasizes project support and operational tasks, often within educational institutions.

What job categories do people searching Operations Graduate Assistant jobs in Des Moines, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Operations Graduate Assistant jobs in Des Moines, IA are:
What cities near Des Moines, IA are hiring for Operations Graduate Assistant jobs? Cities near Des Moines, IA with the most Operations Graduate Assistant job openings:
Operations Graduate Assistant jobs near you

Operations & Sales Support Associate (Infrastructure Industry)

American Underground Supply

De Soto, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Kickstart your career with a company powering critical infrastructure across the Midwest.
American Underground Supply (AUS) is a woman-owned, independent, and fast-growing waterworks distributor serving municipalities, utility contractors, and major infrastructure projects. If you're a recent graduate eager to build real-world business, operations, and customer-facing skills, this role gives you hands-on experience inside a company known for expert problem-solving, cutting-edge technology, and unmatched responsiveness.
What You'll Do
  • Customer Support - Greet customers, answer questions, and guide them through purchases
  • Sales Transactions - Process orders accurately using our point-of-sale system
  • Product Knowledge - Learn about AUS's extensive inventory of pipe, valves, fittings, tools, and waterworks products
  • Inventory Support - Help maintain one of the Midwest's most comprehensive inventories, including restocking and organizing materials
  • Retail Math - Assist with pricing, discounts, and stock calculations
  • Operational Excellence - Support daily store operations that keep contractors and municipalities project-ready
  • Problem Solving - Work with customers to resolve issues quickly and professionally
  • Store Presentation - Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming environment
  • Multitasking - Balance customer interactions with operational tasks in a fast-paced setting

Why This Role Is Different
AUS isn't a typical wholesale environment - you'll be supporting customers who build and maintain the infrastructure communities rely on:
  • Water systems
  • Stormwater management
  • Wastewater treatment
  • Residential and commercial development
  • Data centers and large-scale facilities

You'll gain exposure to real project workflows, industry-leading manufacturers, and experienced professionals who have spent decades in waterworks and underground infrastructure. AUS's culture is built on referrals, relationships, and service, giving you a front-row seat to how strong customer partnerships are built.
Who Thrives Here
  • Recent grads who want hands-on business and operations experience
  • Strong communicators who enjoy helping people
  • Organized multitaskers who like fast-paced environments
  • Team players with a positive, professional attitude
  • Anyone excited to learn an industry with long-term career paths

No prior retail or waterworks experience required - we'll train you.
Benefits
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Life insurance
  • Skill development and mentorship
  • Opportunities for advancement in operations, sales, logistics, or leadership

Work Location
In person
Requirements
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree required
  • Experience working in a wholesale distribution or warehouse environment preferred
  • Experience safely operating a forklift is preferred

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