Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary
Assist faculty or other instructional staff in postsecondary institutions by performing instructional support activities, such as developing teaching materials, leading discussion groups, preparing and giving examinations, and grading examinations or papers.
SOC: 25-9044.00
Common Job Titles
Graduate AssistantGraduate Teaching Assistant (GTA)Research Assistant (RA)Teaching Assistant (TA)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeExplain complex course content and learning objectives during discussion sections and review sessions with undergraduate and graduate students.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate student examinations, papers, and assignments using rubrics and grading standards established by faculty, ensuring consistency and fairness.Proficient
- KnowledgeDesign instructional materials and supplemental learning resources incorporating multimedia tools and educational technology to enhance student engagement.Developing
- MindsetEngage students from diverse backgrounds in active learning discussions fostering an inclusive classroom environment that values multiple perspectives.Developing
- KnowledgeApply pedagogical strategies and learning theory principles when leading discussion groups and facilitating collaborative problem-solving activities.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze student performance data and assessment results to identify learning gaps and recommend instructional improvements to supervising faculty.Developing
- MindsetSupport students' academic development and learning needs through individual consultations, office hours, and responsive feedback on coursework.Developing
- KnowledgePrepare course examinations and assessment instruments aligned with faculty-defined course objectives and academic standards.Developing
- KnowledgeOperate learning management systems and educational technology platforms to administer online content, track student progress, and facilitate hybrid learning environments.Developing
- KnowledgeCoordinate instructional activities and administrative tasks under faculty supervision, managing multiple course sections and maintaining accurate academic records.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
155,010
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $28,020 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $73,560 |
| Workers on average earn | $47,560 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- English Language4.7/5
- Education and Training4.5/5
- Computers and Electronics3.5/5
- Mathematics3.3/5
- Communications and Media2.9/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Adobe PhotoshopGoogle DocsIBM SPSS StatisticsMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WordSASStructured query language SQL
Technology Skills
Blackboard LearnCalendar and scheduling softwareCollaborative editing softwareCourse management system softwareDOC CopDesire2Learn LMS softwareEmail softwareImage scanning software
Tools & Equipment
Carousel slide projectorsCompact digital camerasCompact disk CD playersComputer data input scannersComputer laser printersComputer projectorsConference telephonesDesktop computers