Peer Learning Assistant (PLA)

Position Overview 

Peer Learning Assistants (PLAs) provide personalized academic support across a variety of courses through multiple tutoring modalities. They may engage in Drop-In sessions, offering one-on-one assistance, participate in Group sessions, where they work with students in varying numbers alongside faculty, or support the Math Learning Center and Computer Science Learning Center through a drop-in modality, allowing access for support in high-need courses during a consistent weekly window. 

The ideal candidate will offer individualized student support by working closely with students to deepen their understanding of course material. They will apply active learning strategies, such as facilitation and collaboration techniques, to promote peer engagement. Additionally, they will foster a welcoming and supportive environment, ensuring students feel comfortable seeking help. The candidate should also demonstrate content expertise, maintain a strong grasp of course material and utilize class resources effectively to enhance student learning.

We invite academically inclined students who can support core and major courses in the following areas to apply: Physics, Math, Civil Engineering, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science.

For detailed information on specific courses we target for tutoring, please contact chyna.howell@mst.edu.

Note: if an area is unnamed, it indicates there is currently no need for tutors in that subject but we still welcome your application.

Compensation: $13.90 per hour with potential to increase with time served

Qualifications

Academic Requirements: Candidates must have completed the courses they wish to tutor at Missouri S&T with a grade of B or higher and must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.9–3.0 or higher.

Eligible applicants include current S&T undergraduate students pursuing a bachelor’s degree, or current graduate students who completed their undergraduate degree at Missouri S&T. Graduate applications will not be evaluated if the undergraduate degree was earned elsewhere.

Letter of Recommendation: All applicants must have a faculty member or professor submit a Letter of Recommendation in a subject related to their major using the Peer Learning Assistant Recommendation Form. Applicants will not be offered an interview until the letter is received, or proof of faculty contact has been provided to the hiring manager.

Available to work between 6-12+ hours a week and willing to support shift pickups as able.

Flexibility in Tutoring Support: Tutors must be eligible to support at least six courses, including three core courses in their major and three foundational courses such as Calculus I–II, Chemistry I–II, Foundations of General Chemistry, or Physics (College/Engineering) I–II.

Tutors must also be open to placement in either Group or 1:1 tutoring formats, depending on coverage needs and the courses they are qualified to support.

Administrative & Professional Development: Be available to attend the required pre-semester training, hosted on Saturday, January 18th, to prepare for the semester, learn best tutoring practices and finalize work schedule.

Communication & Professionalism: Tutors must demonstrate strong communication skills, professionalism, and respect when interacting with students, faculty, and peers. They are also expected to be responsive and organized, regularly checking and replying to emails and SSC alerts in a timely manner.