Life & Career Studies Program Graduate Assistant

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 Job Description

• 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.