Job Summary:

 The Professional Calculus Tutor provides individualized and small group academic support to students enrolled in the CSTEP (Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program) program at RPI. Under the supervision of the Director of Student Retention & Transitions, the tutor delivers high-quality, content-specific tutoring in Calculus I, Calculus II, Multivariable Calculus, and Differential Equations, with the goal of improving student academic performance, persistence, and success in STEM disciplines. This is a part-time position funded by the CSTEP grant, ranging from 3 to 10 hours per week depending on funding, program demand and scheduling.

Who we are:

Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is the first technological research university in the United States. We bring creativity, science, and technology together to address society's greatest challenges. We cultivate exceptional problem-solvers by immersing them in a culture of rigorous inquiry, disciplined practice, and hands-on application. Our strategic plan, RPI Forward, charts a pioneering course for the next era of RPI. Explore the RPI Forward plan. ↗︎

Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, RPI is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world’s fastest supercomputers, and the IBM Quantum System One - the first university-based quantum computer in the world. 

With top notch employee health and retirement benefits, Rensselaer offers its full-time employees a generous paid time off program, tuition remission, and opportunities for career growth. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, or related STEM field
• 1 or more years experience demonstrating proficiency in Calculus I, Calculus II, Multivariable Calculus, and Differential Equations at the college level
  • Tutoring, teaching, or providing academic support in a University setting

Applicants must meet stated minimum education and experience requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Some graduate study in Master's degree or currently enrolled in a graduate program in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, or related STEM field
• Experience working with students from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM, including CSTEP, LSAMP, or similar college access and retention programs
• Familiarity with RPI mathematics curriculum and course expectations
• Experience with small group facilitation or structured study sessions
• Peer tutor certification or completion of a formal tutor training program (e.g., CRLA certification).

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong mastery of calculus and differential equations at the undergraduate level
• Ability to explain complex mathematical concepts clearly and accessibly to students with varying levels of preparation
• Ability to interact with culturally diverse students, staff, and faculty in a friendly, professional, and caring manner
• Ability to adapt instructional approaches to individual student learning needs and academic goals
• Strong oral communication skills with the ability to break down multi-step problems in a patient and encouraging manner
• Ability to maintain accurate records and submit timely session documentation in compliance with CSTEP grant requirements
• Skill in the use of personal computers and related software applications
• Ability to work independently and manage scheduled sessions reliably within a 3 to 10 hour per week commitment

Preferred Knowledge, Skill, and Abilities:

• Familiarity with tutoring platforms, scheduling tools, or student success management systems
• Knowledge of evidence-based tutoring practices and learning strategies specific to STEM disciplines
• Ability to use whiteboard, tablet, or digital annotation tools to support mathematical explanation

Representative Job Duties:

• Provide individual and small group tutoring sessions in Calculus I, Calculus II, Multivariable Calculus, and Differential Equations to students enrolled in the CSTEP program. Deliver clear, patient, and structured explanations of mathematical concepts, problem-solving techniques, and course content aligned with current RPI course curricula.
• Assess student understanding and adapt tutoring approaches to meet individual learning needs. Identify gaps in foundational knowledge and develop targeted strategies to address those gaps, supporting students in building confidence and mathematical proficiency.
• Maintain accurate records of tutoring sessions including attendance, topics covered, and student progress. Submit timely session logs and reports to the supervisor in accordance with CSTEP grant reporting requirements.
• Collaborate with the Student Success Center professional staff, CSTEP program coordinators, and course faculty to align tutoring support with course expectations and to identify students in need of additional academic assistance.
• Participate in required training sessions, staff meetings, and professional development activities as directed by the supervisor. Adhere to Student Success Center policies, confidentiality standards, and CSTEP program guidelines.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor, ensuring that these projects meet predetermined objectives and deadlines. 

Shift:

Non Standard Shift: see job details

Travel:

Driving:

No Driving

Starting Salary/Rate:

Expected hiring range: $25 / hr

Pay transparency disclosure: The selected candidate’s salary will be determined based on factors that include the available budget, internal equity, and the final candidate’s qualifications, experience, education and other job-related credentials. This hiring range is provided as Rensselaer’s good faith estimate of the expected hiring range at the time of posting.

Application instructions:

Follow the on-screen prompts to create a brief online profile. Please be ready to upload your resume and cover letter.

If you need assistance with the online application process, please contact careers@rpi.edu.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Total Compensation and Benefits Information:

Rensselaer’s Total Compensation Program is designed to provide stable pay growth, a comprehensive and affordable benefits package, and a comprehensive and affordable retiree medical and prescription plan. Our goal is to provide you and your family with a comprehensive health and welfare program as an umbrella of financial security and protection during your employment. For more information, please visit Benefits | Human Resources (rpi.edu).