Assistant Professor of Writing

Olivet College, a liberal arts college in south central Michigan with a long-standing commitment to inclusion and diversity, invites applications for an Assistant Professor of Writing. This position is a full-time, location-bound, tenure track faculty position within the Arts & Humanities Department.

Given the college’s commitment to supporting a diverse and inclusive faculty, members of historically underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Position Requirements: 

Assistant Professor of Writing: Earned PhD in Writing, Composition and Rhetoric, English, English Education will receive priority consideration; ABD, MFA, or master’s degree in Writing, Composition and Rhetoric, English, English Education, or a related field with at least 18 graduate credit hours in writing may be considered. Experience teaching in-person and online preferred.

The vision for the college’s writing programs is to help students develop confidence in their writing and succeed at all levels throughout their academic career. Therefore, successful candidates will have demonstrated exceptional teaching skills at the undergraduate level and have a passion for teaching writing. We are looking for engaging teachers who are excited about guiding first-year students as they develop new skills and understanding. 

Preference will be given to applicants with experience in academic program innovation and development as well as demonstrated competence working with culturally diverse groups in teaching, scholarship, and/or service.  Candidates must indicate a clear commitment to reflective teaching and provide evidence of the ability to create positive and engaging learning experiences inside and outside of the classroom. Candidates who are passionate about teaching and mentoring undergraduate students in a collaborative, collegial, and engaging academic environment are strongly encouraged to apply.

Position Responsibilities: The successful candidate will be expected to teach and work with students in the first-year writing sequence at the college. They will be expected to participate in the academic life of the Arts & Humanities Department and the college.  Faculty responsibilities include advising and mentoring students, engaging in scholarly activities, departmental and college committee participation, assessment, program and curriculum development, and other services supporting the college and its mission. Candidates must bring the ability to create a positive learning experience for students, ability to facilitate and assess student learning and ability to engage in a passionate commitment to mentoring students in a collaborative and diverse environment.  Full-time faculty members teach 24 credit hours (or the equivalent) per year, with release time available for scholarship per the faculty member’s scholarship plan.

Starting Date: August 1, 2023. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue as required.

Application Process: Click on “Apply” to set up a profile and upload the following materials: 

1. Letter of application;
2. Current resume or curriculum vitae with contact information for three references;
3. One-page statement of your interest in and experience with working with a diverse population of students in a multi-ethnic environment;
4. Statement of teaching philosophy and approach to the assessment of student learning;
5. Transcript from the highest degree-granting institution related to the position (official or unofficial) and/or documentation of graduate coursework or relevant certification in the area of instruction; and
6. Student evaluations (if available).

Offer of hire is contingent upon receipt of official transcripts, completion of a background check, and verification of information submitted.  Applicants are required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States at the time of hire and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form and provide required documentation.

About the College: Olivet College was founded in 1844 as a college open to all regardless of race, gender, or ability to pay. The college’s faculty and staff continue its tradition of creating and sustaining a welcoming and inclusive educational environment for students. The college is one of the most diverse private liberal arts institutions in the state of Michigan and actively seeks diversity in its students, faculty, and staff. Students from underrepresented minorities constituted 26% of the fall 2022 student body, with over 15% of the student body identifying as African American. The student body is a mix of urban and rural students from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds, many of whom are first-generation college attendees. The college’s faculty and staff are committed to providing personalized, individualized attention for students who commit themselves to seeking academic and personal success.