ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Graduate Student Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

Ohio Wesleyan University

Graduate Asst for OMSA

Delaware, OH · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

The Graduate Assistant (GA) serves as an imperative staff member of the Office of Multicultural ... The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (OMSA) includes the Women's Resource Center, Spectrum ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsGraduate Student JobsGraduate Student Jobs in Columbus, OH

Graduate Student information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$6

$16

$23

How much do graduate student jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate student in Columbus, OH is $16.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $17.88 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graduate Student, and why are they important?

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 some 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 graduate students?

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.

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.

More about Graduate Student jobs
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Student jobs in Columbus, OH? For Graduate Student jobs in Columbus, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Student jobs in Columbus, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Student jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Graduate Student jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Graduate Student job openings:
Graduate Student jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Student job openings in Columbus, OH as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Internship, 25% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,295 per year, or $16 per hour.
Public Policy and Strategic Communications Intern (Graduate Student)

Public Policy and Strategic Communications Intern (Graduate Student)

AARP

Columbus, OH • On-site

$28/hr

Internship

Posted 29 days ago

AARP rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

101st of 663 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Overview
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health and financial security, and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest-circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin.
The AARP Ohio team seeks a highly motivated Public Policy and Strategic Communications Intern to support advocacy, policy, and communications initiatives aligned with Age-Friendly Ohio and livable communities work. This role offers a unique opportunity to operate at the intersection of policy development, stakeholder engagement, and public-facing communications-translating complex policy issues into compelling narratives that drive awareness and action. The intern will gain hands-on experience supporting legislative priorities, community-based initiatives, and integrated communications strategies that advance AARP's mission across Ohio. This paid internship is set to start in Summer 2026, with a possibility of continuing until the end of the year.
Responsibilities
  • Support development of policy briefs, backgrounders, testimony, and messaging documents tied to priority issues (family caregiving, fraud prevention, livable communities)
  • Translate policy and research into accessible communications content (op-eds, talking points, fact sheets, digital content)
  • Conduct policy and landscape research related to Age-Friendly Ohio and local livability initiatives
  • Assist in stakeholder mapping and engagement strategies across key communities (e.g., Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Delaware)
  • Support advocacy campaign execution, including coordination of communications tactics across PESO channels
  • Participate in strategy discussions with advocacy, communications, and community engagement teams
  • Track legislative activity and summarize key developments for internal use
  • Provide on-site or virtual support for advocacy events, community meetings, or public forums

Qualifications
  • Must be enrolled in a degree program at an accredited college or university as a graduate student or postdoctoral student and remain academically enrolled throughout the internship
  • Strong preference for candidates pursuing a J.D., Master of Public Policy (MPP), Master of Public Administration (MPA), Urban Planning, Advocacy, or related graduate degree
  • Exceptional research, analytical, and writing skills
  • Ability to synthesize complex policy topics into clear, audience-friendly messaging
  • Interest in public policy, advocacy, livable communities, urban planning, or community-based initiatives
  • Ability to manage multiple projects, anticipate needs, and prioritize effectively
  • Ability to work well with diverse populations, including age, gender, race, and sexual orientation
  • Technical proficiency in Microsoft Office programs; familiarity with communications tools is a plus

AARP will not sponsor an employment visa for this position at this time.
Additional Requirements
  • Regular and reliable job attendance
  • Exhibit respect and understanding of others to maintain professional relationships
  • Independent judgement in evaluation options to make sound decisions
  • In office/open office environment with the ability to work effectively surrounded by moderate noise
  • Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds

Hybrid Work Environment
AARP observes Mondays and Fridays as remote workdays, except for essential functions. Remote work can only be done within the United States and its territories.
Compensation and Benefits
The hourly range is $18 for undergraduates, $21 for graduate students, $28 for Ph.D. candidates. Internships are non-exempt positions and are not eligible for employee benefits.
Equal Employment Opportunity
AARP is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. AARP does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, mental or physical disability, genetic information, veteran status, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.

Apply