Student Employment and Instructional Support

Each semester the School of Data Science employs undergraduate students as graders and instructional assistants to support SDS academic programs. They are paid hourly and are responsible for submitting bi-weekly time sheets.  Responsibilities may include grading papers, setting up laboratory experiences, keeping class records, and preparing instructional materials. Only students enrolled in an SDS program can apply for SDS-funded employment opportunities. 

Appointments for an undergraduate employee range between 10-20 hours per week.  Undergraduate student workers are currently paid $12 per hour. Awards are usually for one semester but may be extended at the program’s discretion. These appointments do not come with any form of tuition remission.

Instructional Assistant: Each semester SDS hires eligible undergraduate students to serve as Instructional Assistants (IAs). As an IA, students work under a profeessor for a specific course, assisting with demonstrations, creating/grading assignments, tuturoing students, and helping with labs. Prior coursework may be required. You may also procor exams and distribute materials.

Course Grader: Each semester SDS hires elible undergraduate students to serve as graders. Graders work closely with faculty to manage and grade course assignments. Students must have earned no less than a grade of “B” in the course they are assigned to support.

Peer Advisor Roles: Peer Advisors are hired to support undergraduate students enrolled or considering enrolling in the Data Science or Sports Analytics programs. Responsibilities include answering student questions, providing campus resource info, promoting academic policies, and participating in school events. Peer advisors also help faculty with outreach campaigns. Peer Advisors will be asked to work 10-12 hourse per week, including summer hours. Check here in March for application information.

Eligibility

  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Must be enrolled in an SDS undergraduate program
  • In-state, out-of-state, and international students are eligible to apply
  • Current and newly admitted students are eligible to apply
  • Enrolled in the Data Science Bachelor’s degree or the undergraduate Sports Analytics Certificate.

How and When to Apply

The application portal opens the first week of October for Spring assistantships and the first week of March for Summer and Fall Assistantships. Once the application portal is open, it will stay open throughout the semester. The application is an online electronic form that allows applicants to highlight skills, note their preferences, and upload both a cover letter and resume.

Interested students should apply by completing the application form below. Submitted applications will be reviewed and candidates will be interviewed and selected by the faculty. Students will be notified if additional information is needed or if they have been selected for a position. The application for Fall 2024 student employment is available now:

Spring 2025: aPply here

If Selected: Requirements for Undergraduate Student Employees

  • Hire-a-Niner: If selected by the program to serve as a grader or instructional assistant, you will need to apply again through the Hire-a-Niner system.  In order for you to submit an application into Hire-a-Niner you will need an approved resume.
  • I-9 Verification: Students are responsible for completing all required paperwork (Criminal background check, I-9 verification, etc.) in a timely fashion.  Additional information can be found on UNC Charlotte’s Human Resources website. Students will also need to provide appropriate I-9 identification documents. A full list of acceptable documents can be found on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
  • Visa Requirements: International students, individuals on an F, J, or H visa) may have additional requirements to hold a paid position.  Please consult the Office of International Programs (ISSO) website.

Additional Funding Resources

UNC Charlotte offers information on student employment beyond the SDS, need and merit-based awards, and payment plans on its website. The Career Center also posts open student employment positions.