Carnegie Mellon University

Teaching Assistant/Residential Counselor, PGSS Summer 2026 - Mellon College of Science

Pittsburgh, PA Full time

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world’s most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn’t imagine the future, we invent it. If you’re passionate about joining a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, your journey starts here!

The Mellon College of Science (MCS) is home to four departments and many programs and research centers that cross disciplines. We approach scientific problems from fresh angles using creative interdisciplinary approaches while drawing on our departmental strengths in the core sciences. MCS faculty members are nationally and internationally recognized for their research in a variety of fields, including polymer science, cosmology, mathematical finance, and neuroscience.

The Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Sciences (PGSS) was established to provide a summer enrichment experience in the sciences and mathematics for hardworking rising high school seniors across Pennsylvania and to encourage them to pursue STEM careers. The program places an emphasis on collaborative learning and team research.

We are seeking multiple Teaching Assistants/Residential Counselors for summer employment for the 2026 session. This is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable managerial skills while working with passionate young scientists.

Our particular focus is on five Core Subject Areas of:

  • Biological Sciences
  • Chemistry
  • Computer Science
  • Mathematical Sciences
  • Physics

Program Dates for PGSS 2026

  • Arrival of TA/Counselors: Sunday June 14, 2026
  • TA/Counselor Training: Week of June 15 – 18, 2026
  • Student Arrival & Opening Ceremony: Sunday, June 21, 2026
  • Departure of students: Saturday, July 25, 2026
  • Departure of TA/Counselor Staff: Sunday, July 26, 2026

TA/Residential Counselor core responsibilities will include:

  • Assisting with lecture and lab courses and mentoring team research projects.
  • Living in the same dormitory as the PGSS students.
  • Ensuring that students adhere to the PGSS disciplinary rules.
  • Providing tutorial help in the academic program.
  • Arranging and conducting social activities.

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University.  We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

  • Strong academic records and strong communication skills.
  • Prior experience with PGSS or a similar summer program is preferred.
  • Applicants for the TA/Counselor position should have finished their sophomore year by the start of the summer program, highly qualified first-year students will also be considered.
  • A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements:

  • Successful background check
  • Child Protection Clearances (Act 153)

Additional Information:

  • Professional references may be requested.
  • TA/Counselors will have individual housing in the PGSS dorm.

Please provide a cover letter indicating reason for interest in the position and a current resume/CV for full consideration.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Teaching Assistants, RA's/CA's

Position Type

Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Hourly

More Information: 

  • Please visit Why Carnegie Mellonto learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world. 

  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

  • Statement of Assurance