Calvin University·Grand Rapids, Michigan
The Graduate Assistant provides academic and social-emotional support to students with intellectual or developmental disabilities through instruction and case management. They facilitate community living seminars and coordinate support services to ensure successful campus transitions.
The Life & Career Studies Graduate Assistant this position plays an integral role in fostering student growth, supporting Life & Career Studies students, and enhancing several aspects of the college experience for students.
The Life & Career Studies program is an inclusive postsecondary college program for students with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
This is a 20-24 hours per week; 36-weeks per year.
Compensation is $18 - $21.75 per hour based on experience.
Life & Career Studies Graduate Responsibilities Instruction and Facilitation Provide classroom or academic support.
Facilitate weekly housing-related Community Living Support (CLS) seminars tailored for Life & Career Studies students.
Facilitate other group CLS seminars as assigned based on need.
Teach LIFE 164 (spring) and LIFE 390 courses as assigned.
Academic, Independent Living, & Social/Emotional Support Assist in developing Academic Course Plans and facilitate academic support sessions in collaboration with the Academic & Peer Support Coordinator as needed.
Provide case management and referrals to address academic, and social/emotional needs.
Provide Community Living Support coordination services for assigned private-pay students from initial setup through ongoing implementation, and assist with completing required monthly reports.
Conduct morning check-ins (7–8 AM) on designated day.
Meet individually with students to address personal, social, and residential concerns, helping them successfully transition to campus life.
Administrative and Operational Support Contribute to program documentation, reporting, and administrative projects.
Assist with staff coverage and classroom needs as needed.
Provide on-call coverage one day a week.
Collaboration and Communication Attend regular meetings with supervisors, Residence Life, Student Conduct, and Life & Career Studies staff.
Maintain open communication with campus partners, students, and families to support student success and retention Professional Development Engage in ongoing training, workshops, and professional development opportunities alongside other staff and graduate assistants.
Complete required Resident Director training annually starting in July-August.
Additional
Bachelor’s degree required in Social Work, Psychology, or Education Required; Must be enrolled in Master's Program by Spring 2027. Approved as a Community Living Support worker or the ability to complete the training within 30 days of hire. Previous experience as a Community Living Support worker is strongly preferred. At least two years of experience or demonstrated passion for supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Strong time management and self-direction skills. Ability to handle stressful situations professionally and with empathy. Demonstrated leadership and role-modeling aligned with a faith-based campus community. Experience organizing events preferred. Experience in classroom instruction, support coordination, or case management strongly preferred. FAITH and EDUCATIONAL COMMITMENT 1. Commitment to the educational mission of Calvin as a Christian liberal arts University affiliated with the Christian Reformed Church. 2. A commitment to the Christian faith and to the integration of faith, learning, and student development. DIVERSITY COMMITMENT Demonstrated awareness and commitment to effectively establishing relationships and positive communication across multiple dimensions of diversity including, but not limited to, race, gender, physical limitations, class, or religious perspectives. Founded in 1876, Calvin University is a top-ranked, liberal arts institution that equips its more than 3,600 students from 48 U.S. states, 55 countries, and five Canadian provinces to think deeply, to act justly, and to live wholeheartedly as Christ’s agents of renewal in the world. Calvin offers 100+ majors and programs, including a growing portfolio of graduate-level offerings. Calvin students engage in intensive internships, community-based service learning, and significant research that results in publishing and presenting alongside world-class faculty. The university’s 400-acre campus is in the vibrant city of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Discover more at www.calvin.edu.
Candidates must have a bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, or Education and be enrolled in a Master's program by Spring 2027. At least two years of experience or a demonstrated passion for supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities is required.
Market context
In Michigan, graduate assistant roles in life and career studies often draw candidates with backgrounds in education, psychology, or social work, especially when the work supports individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. These positions can be competitive because they combine academic enrollment requirements, relevant experience or demonstrated commitment, and a pay range that may attract applicants with similar qualifications. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your graduate program timing and prepare examples of direct support experience before applying.