Position
Salary

How much does a Graduate Assistant make?

The average salary for a Graduate Assistant is $47,763 per year in the US.

Graduate Assistants support faculty and staff in universities and colleges. Their pay can vary based on several factors. One important factor is their level of education. Another is their field of study. In general, Graduate Assistants make between $15,000 and $109,447 a year.

Graduate Assistants often start with lower pay. They earn more as they gain experience and complete their degrees. Many earn between $23,586 and $75,103 yearly. These salaries reflect the hard work and dedication Graduate Assistants bring to their roles. They also depend on the institution and the specific responsibilities of the position.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Graduate Assistant?

Graduate Assistants can find their highest salaries in Honolulu, HI. The average income there is $77,688. Austin, TX, and Washington, DC, follow closely behind with average salaries over $46,000. Other top cities include Chicago, IL, Salt Lake City, UT, Raleigh, NC, Rochester, MN, and Lexington, KY. These cities offer competitive salaries for graduates, making them attractive places for job seekers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Graduate Assistant jobs, highlighting Honolulu, HI with the highest at $77,688 and Lexington, KY with the lowest at $32,350.
  1. Honolulu, HI
    Average Salary: $77,688
    Working as an assistant in Honolulu offers a unique blend of academic and practical experiences. The island's vibrant environment supports many research opportunities. Positions often come with the added bonus of beautiful surroundings and a laid-back atmosphere.
    Find Graduate Assistant jobs in Honolulu, HI


  2. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $52,533
    Austin offers a dynamic setting for aspiring assistants. The city's tech and startup culture provides rich learning experiences. Assistants can work with some of the world’s leading tech companies, gaining valuable industry insights.
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  3. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $48,356
    In Washington, DC, assistants find themselves in the heart of politics and international affairs. This city provides a unique backdrop for learning and networking. Working here often involves interacting with prominent figures and organizations.
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  4. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $47,568
    Chicago offers a bustling environment perfect for those looking to gain diverse experiences. The city's rich cultural scene and business hubs create a vibrant setting for professional growth. Assistants can work with major corporations and non-profits.
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  5. Salt Lake City, UT
    Average Salary: $46,327
    Salt Lake City provides a mix of outdoor adventure and professional opportunities. The city's growing tech sector offers many positions for assistants. The clean air and stunning landscapes make it a great place to live and work.
    Find Graduate Assistant jobs in Salt Lake City, UT


  6. Raleigh, NC
    Average Salary: $43,642
    Raleigh, known as the City of Oaks, offers a friendly and progressive atmosphere. The Research Triangle Park area provides numerous opportunities for research and development. Assistants here benefit from a growing job market and quality of life.
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  7. Rochester, MN
    Average Salary: $39,073
    Rochester, home to the Mayo Clinic, offers a unique healthcare-focused environment. Assistants can gain valuable experience in one of the world's leading medical institutions. The city's small-town feel combined with big-city amenities creates a balanced work life.
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  8. Lexington, KY
    Average Salary: $32,350
    Lexington offers a blend of Southern charm and academic opportunities. The University of Kentucky provides numerous positions for assistants. The city's vibrant arts scene and historic sites make it a great place to explore outside of work.
    Find Graduate Assistant jobs in Lexington, KY

What are the best companies a Graduate Assistant can work for?

Graduate Assistant jobs offer varied pay scales across different institutions. The University of Hawaii system stands out with an average salary of nearly $91,300. Stanford University provides a solid average of about $81,600. For those seeking competitive compensation, both these institutions present attractive opportunities.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Graduate Assistant jobs, highlighting University of Hawaii System with the highest at $91,299 and The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley with the lowest at $22,528.
  1. University of Hawaii System
    Average Salary: $91,299
    The University of Hawaii System offers Graduate Assistant jobs across various departments. These roles provide valuable research and teaching experience. They work in locations like Honolulu and Hilo.


  2. Stanford University
    Average Salary: $81,611
    At Stanford University, Graduate Assistants support faculty and research projects. They can find opportunities in departments across the university. The main campus is in Stanford, California.


  3. University of Texas at Austin
    Average Salary: $44,557
    The University of Texas at Austin provides Graduate Assistant positions with a focus on research and teaching. These roles are available across various departments on the main campus in Austin.


  4. Mayo Clinic
    Average Salary: $40,342
    Mayo Clinic offers Graduate Assistant jobs that focus on research and patient care. Assistants work in locations like Rochester, Minnesota, and Jacksonville, Florida.


  5. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
    Average Salary: $22,528
    Graduate Assistants at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley contribute to research and teaching. They work in Edinburg and Brownsville, Texas.

How to earn more as a Graduate Assistant?

As a graduate assistant, earning more can lead to greater financial stability. Being aware of certain factors can help maximize income. These factors can lead to a more rewarding experience both academically and financially. Increasing earning potential involves being proactive and leveraging available opportunities.

Graduate assistants can earn more by considering the following factors. These strategies can lead to higher pay and valuable experience.

  1. Seek higher responsibilities: Take on more tasks and duties. This can lead to a higher pay scale.
  2. Negotiate for higher pay: Discuss salary expectations with the hiring department. Highlight relevant experience and skills.
  3. Gain additional certifications: Pursue certifications related to the field of study. These can add value and justify higher pay.
  4. Engage in multiple roles: Balance work as a graduate assistant with tutoring or research assistant positions. This can increase overall earnings.
  5. Network within the institution: Build relationships with faculty and other graduate assistants. This can open up higher-paying opportunities.

Currently 42 Graduate Assistant job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Graduate Assistant in the US?

Learn what a Graduate Assistant does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Graduate Assistant today.
Position
Overview
Graduate Assistant
42 Job Openings