Position
Salary

How much does a Graduate Assistant make?

The average salary for a Graduate Assistant is $48,627 per year in the US.

Graduate Assistants often find themselves in a rewarding role that combines education and work experience. These positions typically offer a salary that reflects the dual nature of the job. On average, a Graduate Assistant earns about $48,627 per year. This figure can vary based on the specific duties and the institution where the assistant works.

The salary range for Graduate Assistants can be quite broad. Some earn as little as $15,000, while others may make up to $109,447 annually. Most positions fall within the middle of this range, offering a stable income that helps cover living expenses while pursuing higher education. This range allows for growth and advancement as the assistant gains more experience and responsibilities.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Graduate Assistant?

Honolulu, HI, offers the highest average salary for graduate assistant jobs at $81,222. This makes it a top choice for those seeking better pay. Austin, TX, and Washington, DC, follow closely with average salaries of $52,134 and $48,356. These cities provide strong opportunities for higher earnings.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Graduate Assistant jobs, highlighting Honolulu, HI with the highest at $81,222 and Lexington, KY with the lowest at $32,032.
  1. Honolulu, HI
    Average Salary: $81,222
    In Honolulu, working as an assistant offers a unique blend of professional growth and a vibrant lifestyle. The city's educational institutions provide opportunities to engage with diverse communities. Nearby tech companies and research centers add to the dynamic work environment.
    Find Graduate Assistant jobs in Honolulu, HI


  2. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $52,134
    Austin is a hub for innovation and creativity. Assistants here enjoy a lively atmosphere with many tech startups and established companies. The city's culture of collaboration and forward-thinking makes it an exciting place to work.
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  3. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $48,356
    In Washington, DC, assistants gain valuable experience in a political and professional setting. The city's numerous government agencies and think tanks offer a unique work environment. Networking opportunities with professionals from various sectors are abundant.
    Find Graduate Assistant jobs in Washington, DC


  4. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $47,568
    Chicago provides a bustling environment for assistants. The city's diverse industries, from finance to healthcare, offer varied experiences. Working in Chicago means being part of a dynamic workforce with many opportunities for career advancement.
    Find Graduate Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL


  5. Salt Lake City, UT
    Average Salary: $46,327
    Salt Lake City offers a balanced lifestyle with professional growth. The city's strong focus on education and research provides a supportive environment for assistants. Nearby tech companies and non-profits add to the diverse work opportunities.
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  6. Raleigh, NC
    Average Salary: $43,642
    Raleigh is a growing city with a vibrant job market. Assistants here enjoy a mix of professional development and a friendly community. The presence of research institutions and tech companies creates a stimulating work environment.
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  7. Rochester, MN
    Average Salary: $38,658
    Rochester offers a unique blend of professional opportunities and a close-knit community. The city's focus on healthcare and education provides a supportive environment for assistants. Working here means being part of a city known for its quality of life.
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  8. Lexington, KY
    Average Salary: $32,032
    Lexington provides a welcoming environment for assistants. The city's strong educational institutions and research centers offer many opportunities. Working in Lexington means being part of a community that values both work and leisure.
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What are the best companies a Graduate Assistant can work for?

Graduate Assistants at the University of Hawaii system enjoy a high average salary of $86,948. Stanford University offers a competitive average salary of $80,787. The University of Texas at Austin provides a solid average salary of $47,740. These institutions value their graduate assistants and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Graduate Assistant jobs, highlighting University of Hawaii system with the highest at $86,948 and The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley with the lowest at $22,873.
  1. University of Hawaii system
    Average Salary: $86,948
    The University of Hawaii system offers Graduate Assistant jobs with a competitive salary. These roles provide valuable experience in research and teaching. The university operates across several locations in Hawaii, including Honolulu and Hilo.


  2. Stanford University
    Average Salary: $80,787
    Stanford University provides Graduate Assistant jobs with a strong salary. These positions support both academic and administrative tasks. The university is located in Stanford, California, offering a vibrant academic environment.


  3. University of Texas at Austin
    Average Salary: $47,740
    The University of Texas at Austin offers Graduate Assistant jobs with a good salary. These roles involve assisting professors and conducting research. The university is located in Austin, Texas, providing a dynamic educational setting.


  4. Mayo Clinic
    Average Salary: $40,136
    Mayo Clinic provides Graduate Assistant jobs with a solid salary. These positions focus on research and clinical support. The clinic operates in Rochester, Minnesota, and other locations, offering a prestigious work environment.


  5. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
    Average Salary: $22,873
    The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley offers Graduate Assistant jobs with a reasonable salary. These roles include teaching and research support. The university is located in Edinburg, Texas, providing a supportive academic community.

How to earn more as a Graduate Assistant?

Graduate Assistants have many ways to increase their earnings. They can focus on certain areas that often lead to higher pay. These areas include the type of institution, the field of study, and additional responsibilities. By understanding these factors, a Graduate Assistant can make informed decisions to maximize their earnings.

First, working at a research-intensive university often pays more than a teaching-focused college. These institutions usually have more funding and can offer higher salaries. Second, certain fields like engineering, computer science, and business often provide higher pay. These areas often have more demand for graduate assistants. Third, taking on extra duties such as teaching or administrative tasks can lead to higher pay. Fourth, gaining experience and building a strong reputation can lead to promotions and higher salaries. Finally, networking with professionals in the field can open up opportunities for higher-paying positions. By focusing on these factors, a Graduate Assistant can increase their earnings and advance their career.

Graduate Assistants can also look for ways to increase their value. This includes:

  • Pursuing certifications or additional training
  • Taking on leadership roles in projects or committees
  • Publishing research or contributing to academic journals
  • Seeking mentorship from experienced faculty members
  • Building a strong professional network

Currently 66 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
66 Job Openings