Teaching Associate, Postgraduate Philosophy

Boston University; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Tuition remission

Paid time off

Job summary

Boston University seeks a Teaching Associate in Philosophy to support faculty instruction and enhance undergraduate learning. The role involves leading discussion sections, grading, holding office hours, and providing academic support while collaborating with instructors and teaching fellows.

The nine-month appointment offers regular BU benefits, potential renewal, and a pathway to continued teaching opportunities based on enrollment needs and funding.

Qualifications

• Philosophy background or closely related field.
• 1–3 years of teaching, instructional, mentoring, or academic support experience.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex philosophical concepts clearly.
• Strong organizational, grading, and student support skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead five discussion sections each semester, review readings and materials in advance.
• Consult with the primary instructor on key concepts, themes, and learning objectives.
• Grade quizzes, exams, and written assignments for students in assigned sections.
• Provide timely, constructive feedback to support student learning and development.
• Help Graduate Student Teaching Fellows prepare weekly discussions and share best practices.
• Attend lectures two to three times per week and maintain office hours.
• Assist in staying informed about course content to support student performance.
• Develop analytical reasoning, argumentative writing, and critical thinking skills in students.

Skills

Philosophy background

Teaching experience

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Collaborative work

Education

Philosophy degree

Job description

Teaching Associate, Postgraduate Philosophy

Category

Job Location

Tracking Code

26500559840804

Posted Date

8/7/2026

Salary Grade

Grade 47

Expected Hiring Range Minimum

$49,500.00

Expected Hiring Range Maximum

$49,500.00

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, training and internal pay comparison. The above hiring range represents the University\'s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Position Type

Full-Time/Regular

Teaching Associate – Philosophy Established in 1873, Arts and Sciences is Boston University\'s largest and most academically diverse unit, encompassing over 8,400 undergraduates, 2,000 graduate students, 800 faculty members, and 300 staff across 50 departments, programs, centers, and institutes. Our faculty are award-winning researchers, innovative teachers, and dedicated mentors committed to exploring the complexities of our present and past, uncovering new perspectives, and crafting creative solutions to real-world problems. Our staff are dynamic, mission-driven professionals who foster community, inclusion, and belonging to advance every aspect of the college enterprise. Our community thrives on collaboration, bold ideas, and interdisciplinary exploration. Join us in supporting the pursuit of knowledge that changes the world and provides boundless opportunities to inspire the next generation of leaders. We offer generous benefits, including health, dental, and life insurance, tuition remission, retirement savings, paid time off, and holiday leave.

The Department of Philosophy seeks a Teaching Associate to support faculty instruction and enhance student learning in undergraduate courses. The Teaching Associate will assist primary instructors with leading discussion sections, grading student work, holding office hours, and providing academic support to students. This is a nine-month appointment involving five discussion sections per semester and includes regular Boston University benefits. Renewal for an additional year may be possible based on enrollment needs and availability of funding.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and prepare five discussion sections each semester. Review assigned readings and course materials in advance of each section.
• Consult with the primary instructor regarding key concepts, themes, and learning objectives.
• Foster meaningful student engagement and discussion of philosophical texts and ideas. Grade quizzes, examinations, and written assignments for students enrolled across assigned discussion sections.
• Provide timely, constructive feedback to support student learning and development.
• Apply grading standards consistently and in accordance with instructor expectations.
• Provide guidance and assistance to Graduate Student Teaching Fellows in preparing weekly discussion sections.
• Share best practices for classroom facilitation and student engagement. Attend lectures two to three times per week.
• Take notes and consult with the instructor regarding key concepts and expectations for student performance.
• Stay informed about course content to effectively support students. Hold approximately five office hours per week, with additional availability as needed. Answer student questions, clarify course material, and assist with assignment preparation.
• Help students develop analytical reasoning, argumentative writing, and critical thinking skills.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• This position does not have formal supervisory authority but provides leadership and guidance to Graduate Student Teaching Fellows.
• The Teaching Associate reports directly to the Chair of the Department.

Required Skills

• Academic background in Philosophy or a closely related field.
• One to three years of relevant teaching, instructional, mentoring, or academic support experience.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex philosophical concepts clearly and effectively.
• Strong organizational, grading, and student support skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, teaching fellows, and students in a diverse academic environment.

Compensation and Benefits:

• This is a nine-month appointment with eligibility for regular Boston University benefits.
• Continued appointment beyond the initial term may be considered based on departmental needs, enrollment levels, and available funding.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.