Student Employment

Assistantships (includes CA, RA, and Grader)

The EE department has four (4) types of student employment available to qualified students. The 4 types of positions are Course Assistant (CA), Teaching Assistant (TA), Research Assistant (RA), and Grader.

Course Assistant (CA)

A course assistant (CA) is a graduate or coterminal student who works part-time helping an instructor with a class. CA responsibilities can include office hours for individual student assistance, review or study sessions, occasional lectures, preparation of assignments, grading exams, projects, and solutions. A CA for a laboratory class may also be responsible for laboratory supervision, equipment, or demonstrations.

The primary of this position include assisting with the preparation for lectures and the setup and running of labs. The role involves conducting review sessions and holding regular office hours to support student learning, as well as responding to student questions in a timely and helpful manner. Additionally, this position is responsible for managing course logistics and handing grading duties, thought it does not include assigning final grades.

This is a support role in which student interactions center on managing course logistics, directing students to relevant materials or resources, grading or evaluating work, and clarifying, reviewing, or summarizing lecture content. Notably, this position requires minimal to no reaching, distinguishing it from instructional roles that involve delivering original course content.

Teaching Assistant (TA)

In addition to the duties of a Course Assistant, the primary responsibilities of this position include assisting with preparation for lecture and labs, which may involve the presentation of new materials. This role also requires presenting material in the classroom or lab setting, including leading classroom and lab sessions, as well as conducting tutorials, workshops, and discussion sections.

This role carries teaching responsibilities, requiring the individual to present material in the classroom or lab by leading sessions, tutorials, workshops, and discussion sections. As an instructional role, it involves preparation, creativity, and independent pedagogical judgement. The position also includes assisting in the preparation of new course content; however, it does not extend to syllabus development or course design. 

Research Assistant (RA)

A research assistant (RA) works on research projects under the supervision of a faculty member. RAships are available only through the request of a faculty member.

See the CA and TA Appointment Basics page for RA Rates.

Grader

Grader positions are available each quarter. Students must complete the course grader application by answering all of the questions to the best of their knowledge and ability. Students must also indicate all of the courses that they're comfortable and confident in grading on the application, and applicants are required to submit an unofficial copy of their Stanford transcript with each application.

Students will be notified via email by the first week of the quarter if they receive an appointment. Authorization from faculty is not necessary to apply for a course grader appointment. (Students should not assume that they have a course grader appointment just because an instructor told them that they are his/her choice.) Only students who have submitted an application will be considered.

Payroll Information for CAs, TAs, RAs, and Graders

All student employees must meet several academic requirements before receiving a paycheck. Student employees also need to be sure their employment forms are up-to-date and on file with the Payroll Office. Please understand that if any requirements or forms are missing or outdated, your paychecks will be withheld, most likely until the next pay period.

Payroll Information for CAs, TAs, RAs, and Graders includes how and when you are paid, tax information, and what to do if you don't receive your paycheck.