Sustainability Policy at Home and Abroad Course Assistant/Grader Fall 2026 (Student Wage)

Position Overview:

The Global Studies program seeks an energetic graduate or fourth-year student to assist with grading and student advising in this core course for students in the Global Sustainability major. In the course, students survey the main currents of U.S. and international sustainability policy, covering air and water quality, endangered species protection, public land management, private land conservation, ocean plastic pollution, sustainable development, Indigenous people’s rights, and others. We consider the origins of these policies in broader streams of conservation thought (utilitarian, romantic, progressive) and learn to evaluate and assess these policies using examples from current natural resource and environmental challenges (energy independence, biodiversity loss, recreational access, climate change). Students will also gain familiarity with the actors and processes by which environmental policy decisions are made (Congress, agencies, interest groups, appropriations, oversight, rulemaking, and environmental and related assessments). Principal assignments are themed around live/current natural resource policy making. Guest speakers provide a chance to hear from environmental policymakers, analysts, and advocates.

This is an excellent opportunity for students from any discipline to broaden their subject matter knowledge. Students in policy-related disciplines (politics, foreign affairs, leadership & public policy, economics, etc.) may find this experience particularly valuable to their career preparation.

Responsibilities:

• Attend class each Tuesday and Thursday from 14:00 – 15:15 (2:00 – 3:15 pm) to hear the lectures, facilitate small group discussions, and assist the instructor with classroom logistics as needed. In past years, the TA has delivered one guest lecture on a topic of interest to the course. (It’s a great way to test out ideas from one’s capstone or graduate research.)
• Share assignment grading with the instructor (Course enrollment is capped at 60 students.)
• Provide guidance to students on assignments as needed.

Qualifications:

• Federal Work Study approved (strongly preferred.)
• Interest in (and ideally passion for) the topic of collective action to improve ecological, economic, and ethical outcomes in the face of various sustainability challenges.
• Ability to provide thoughtful feedback and grade written assignments.
• Commitment to complete job duties on time.
• Qualified applicants must be students in “Good Standing”

Compensation: $18/hr.

Hours: 10-15 per week

Location: Gibson Hall Room 211

To Apply: Complete the online application and upload a resume and cover letter.

Contact:
Spencer Phillips

Associate Professor, Global Studies

Gibson S162

202.556.1269

Spencer.phillips@virginia.edu

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Resume and Cover Letter.

Education: Current fourth year undergraduate or graduate UVA student
Experience: None
Licensure: None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.