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Physics Teaching Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Physics Teaching Assistant information

What does a physics teaching assistant do?

A Physics Teaching Assistant (TA) supports professors and students in physics courses, often at the college or university level. Their responsibilities can include leading lab sessions, grading assignments or exams, holding office hours to help students with challenging concepts, and sometimes assisting in classroom instruction. TAs play a crucial role in making physics material more accessible and helping students succeed academically. They may also assist in preparing teaching materials and setting up laboratory equipment.

How does a physics teaching assistant typically collaborate with professors and students in a university setting?

Physics Teaching Assistants (TAs) work closely with professors to support classroom activities, such as leading lab sessions, holding office hours, and assisting in grading assignments. They often serve as a bridge between students and faculty, clarifying complex topics and addressing student questions outside of lectures. Collaboration also extends to facilitating group discussions, preparing teaching materials, and sometimes helping to develop assessment tools. This teamwork provides TAs with valuable teaching experience and insight into academic career paths.

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

To thrive as a Physics Teaching Assistant, you need a solid understanding of physics concepts, strong academic credentials (often at least a bachelor's degree or current enrollment in a physics program), and experience with laboratory procedures. Familiarity with course management systems (like Canvas or Blackboard), scientific software (such as MATLAB), and standard physics lab equipment is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and the ability to explain complex ideas clearly help you support and engage students effectively. These skills are crucial for fostering student learning, ensuring lab safety, and maintaining academic standards in educational environments.

What is the difference between Physics Teaching Assistant vs Physics Tutor?

AspectPhysics Teaching AssistantPhysics Tutor
Required credentialsUsually enrolled in or recent graduate of physics or related programVaries; often self-employed or freelance with strong physics knowledge
Work environmentUniversity or college labs, classrooms, assisting professorsOne-on-one or small group sessions, often online or at private locations
Employer and industry usageEducational institutions, academic departmentsPrivate tutoring companies, freelance, online platforms
Common search and comparison intentUnderstanding academic support roles in physicsSeeking personalized physics help or tutoring services

The main difference is that a Physics Teaching Assistant typically works within an academic institution, assisting professors and supporting coursework, while a Physics Tutor usually provides one-on-one or small group tutoring outside of formal university settings. Both roles require strong physics knowledge, but their work environments and employment types differ.

What are popular job titles related to Physics Teaching Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Physics Teaching Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Physics Teaching Assistant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Physics Teaching Assistant jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Physics Teaching Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution.

High School Science (Physical Science, Chemistry, Physics) Teacher, Grades 9-12 - 2nd Semester 2026-

East Sac County Schools

Lake View, IA โ€ข On-site

$46K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
High School Teaching/Science - General
Date Posted:
8/25/2026
Location:
East Sac County 7-12
Date Available:
01/04/2027
ATTENTION MID-YEAR GRADUATES - Science Teacher 9-12
East Sac Community Schools is seeking qualified applicants to serve as a full time High School Science Teacher for the 2nd semester of the 2026-27 school year. This will be for grades 9-12. Specific teaching assignments and classes will be discussed after learning the candidates preferences and strengths and licensure areas. This position is open until filled. Applicants who apply early will be given preference. Interviews will be conducted as quality applicants apply.
East County CSD is located in beautiful Northwest/North Central Iowa and comprised of Sac City, Lake View, Wall Lake, and Auburn. The 7-12 building is located in Lake View. Our communities offer many recreational areas including Black Hawk Lake along with several thriving small businesses and restaurants. We are located right south of Hwy 20 and are 1 hour from Sioux City, 1 hour and 20 minutes from the Okoboji Great Lakes, and two hours from Des Moines, Cedar Falls, and Omaha. The successful candidate will be supported by the HS Principal, an Assistant Principal, Veteran Science Teachers from within the district, a mentoring program, the Superintendent, and the East Sac County Board of Education. Salary and benefits include a competitive starting wage based on degree and experience, IPERS, health insurance, and paid vacation.
Position Purpose
- Under the general supervision of the School Principal, to develop students' skills and competence in one or more fields of science, including general science, earth science, biology, physiology, chemistry, and physics; develops students skills and abilities in scientific methods and problem-solving, as well as an understanding of the application of science in the solution of practical problems.
Essential Functions
- Teaches knowledge and skills in one or more fields of science, including general science, earth science, physiology, chemistry, and physics, in accordance with district curriculum.
- Promotes critical and creative thinking and analysis in all related subject areas.
- Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small group instruction, and student learning.
- Develops lesson plans and instructional materials for subject area, and translates lesson plans into learning experiences to develop pertinent sequential assignments, challenge students, and best utilize the available time for instruction.
- Designs learning activities to demonstrate the application of science to everyday existence, including scientific research projects, demonstrations, experiments, and laboratory activities.
- Instructs students in the proper use and care of scientific equipment, chemicals, and plant and animal life.
- Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning and progress, and modifies instructional methods to fit individual student's needs, including students with special needs; conducts individual and small group instruction as needed.
- Maintains familiarity with district and Connecticut State standardized tests for the purpose of adapting curriculum to maximize student achievement on such tests.
- Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
- Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting for all student activities, achievement and attendance as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
- Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
- Ensures that student conduct conforms to the school's standards and school district policies, and establishes and maintains standards of student behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom.
- Coordinates with other professional staff members, especially within grade level, and participates in faculty meetings and committees.
- Selects and requisitions appropriate books, instructional aids and other supplies and equipment, maintains inventory records, and ensures equipment is in good working order.
Additional Duties
- Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.
Equipment
- Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.
Travel Requirements
- Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
- Knowledge of a wide range of science subject areas, including general science, earth science, biology, physiology, chemistry, physics, and other related areas (e.g., mathematics).
- Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
- Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
- Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
- Ability to organize and coordinate work.
- Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
- Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
- Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards
- Works in standard office and school building environments.
Note: Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Functions for this position.
Certification/License:
- State Certification as a Science Teacher or as required for position.
- Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.
Education:
- Bachelors from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
FLSA Status: Exempt