Community College Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of education, the role of community college instructors is more critical than ever.

As knowledge expands and evolves, so does the demand for skilled educators who can guide, inspire, and empower students in their academic journey.

But what does it really mean to be a community college instructor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• An administrator looking to define the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the responsibilities of a community college instructor,

You’re at the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable community college instructor job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career portals.

Let’s dive right into it.

Community College Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Community College Instructors play a pivotal role in teaching and mentoring students and shaping their futures.

They are required to have a deep understanding of their subject matter, along with the ability to convey complex ideas in an approachable and understandable manner.

The duties and responsibilities of a Community College Instructor include:

• Developing course syllabi, lesson plans, and instructional materials for students in their classes
• Delivering lectures and leading classroom discussions on relevant topics
• Assessing and evaluating student performance through assignments, quizzes, exams, and other forms of testing
• Offering guidance, support, and mentorship to students to help them achieve their academic goals
• Staying updated with the latest trends and developments in their field of expertise
• Participating in department meetings and serving on academic or administrative committees as necessary
• Performing administrative tasks such as maintaining student attendance records, grades, and other required documentation
• Working with other faculty members to improve curriculum and teaching methods
• Engaging in ongoing professional development to enhance teaching skills and subject matter expertise
• Communicating effectively with students, parents, and other faculty members
• Advising students on career opportunities and providing references when appropriate

 

Community College Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a dedicated and knowledgeable Community College Instructor to join our teaching staff.

The Instructor will be responsible for creating lesson plans, preparing and delivering lectures, creating and supervising laboratory activities for students, and evaluating student performance.

The ideal candidate should be a subject matter expert in their chosen field and possess the ability to effectively communicate course material to students, fostering an engaging learning environment.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement engaging lesson plans
• Deliver lectures on subjects in a clear and compelling manner
• Provide individualized instruction and constructive feedback to students
• Prepare, administer, and grade tests and assignments to evaluate student progress
• Stay updated on current teaching methods, educational psychology, and instructional resources
• Provide guidance and support to students
• Participate in faculty and college-wide meetings
• Keep records of student attendance, grades, and other required documentation
• Maintain regular office hours to meet with students

 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in the subject taught or related field
• Teaching experience at the community college level preferred
• Knowledge of instructional methodologies and course design
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to engage students and foster a positive learning environment
• Strong organizational and planning skills
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a team

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Community College Instructor
• Work Environment: Classroom and office setting. Some flexibility in scheduling is possible.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Head.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Salary varies greatly depending on the field of instruction, geographical location, and candidate’s years of experience and credentials.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time, Part-time, and Adjunct positions available
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our college. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of three professional references to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Community College Instructor Do?

Community College Instructors primarily work in two-year colleges to provide higher education to a diverse group of students, including high school graduates, adults, and nontraditional students.

They are responsible for planning and delivering lectures in their area of expertise, such as mathematics, social sciences, business, or arts.

They create detailed lesson plans, maintain student attendance records, and assign and grade class assignments, quizzes, and tests.

Community College Instructors often engage in discussions and interactive sessions to facilitate active learning.

They may also conduct labs, practical sessions, or field work, depending on the subject matter.

Aside from teaching, they are expected to advise students on academic and vocational curricula, as well as on career issues.

They may also participate in campus and community events.

Community College Instructors play a significant role in the students’ academic journey, often providing the foundational knowledge and skills required for their future studies or career paths.

Additionally, they contribute to their institution by participating in committees, working on curriculum development, and maintaining up-to-date knowledge in their field through continuous learning and professional development.

 

Community College Instructor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Community College Instructor should have the skills and qualifications that align with the task of providing quality education to students, such as:

• Profound knowledge in the relevant subject area to confidently and accurately impart knowledge to students.
• Exceptional communication skills to deliver lectures effectively, explain complex concepts in an understandable manner and facilitate interactive discussions.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships with students, staff, and faculty, and to manage classroom dynamics.
• Experience in curriculum development and lesson planning to design effective teaching strategies and materials that cater to diverse learning styles and abilities.
• Assessment and grading abilities to evaluate student progress and provide constructive feedback.
• Excellent organizational skills to effectively manage time, coordinate assignments, and meet academic deadlines.
• Proficiency in digital tools and learning management systems to facilitate online learning and communication with students.
• Ability to inspire and motivate students, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development to stay current with new teaching methods, educational research, and advancements in their field of expertise.

 

Community College Instructor Experience Requirements

Community College Instructors typically need a master’s degree in their field of study, although some institutions may require a doctoral degree, especially for advanced or specialized subjects.

Prior teaching experience, often gained through teaching assistantships during graduate studies, is highly valuable and sometimes necessary.

This hands-on experience provides instructors with a practical understanding of classroom management, curriculum development, and student assessment.

Additionally, many institutions prefer candidates with professional or real-world experience in the field they will be teaching.

This is particularly relevant for vocational or technical subjects, where instructors are expected to provide students with industry-relevant skills and knowledge.

Those with more than 5 years of teaching experience at the post-secondary level are often considered for senior instructor or department chair positions.

These roles generally involve curriculum development, faculty management, and other administrative duties.

Furthermore, ongoing professional development, such as attending workshops or obtaining additional certifications, can enhance an instructor’s qualifications and provide them with up-to-date knowledge and teaching strategies.

 

Community College Instructor Education and Training Requirements

Community College Instructors typically require a master’s degree in the subject they wish to teach.

Degrees in education or a teaching certification may also be beneficial, but the primary focus is often on subject-area expertise.

Furthermore, instructors should have substantial knowledge and expertise in the field they will be teaching.

This can be gained through professional experience in the field, or through extensive research and study.

In many cases, community colleges prefer to hire instructors who have some teaching experience, especially at the post-secondary level.

Therefore, acquiring experience as a teacher’s assistant during graduate study or working in an adjunct teaching position can be highly beneficial.

Certain fields or courses might require additional certifications or licenses.

For example, nursing instructors typically need to be licensed registered nurses.

Aside from academic qualifications, excellent communication skills, the ability to explain complex subjects in an understandable way, and a passion for teaching and mentoring students are invaluable traits for a Community College Instructor.

Continuing education is also essential as it helps instructors stay updated with recent developments in their field of expertise.

They may need to participate in workshops, conferences, or additional coursework to maintain their knowledge base.

 

Community College Instructor Salary Expectations

A Community College Instructor earns an average salary of $56,930 (USD) per year.

This salary may fluctuate depending on factors such as years of experience, academic qualifications, the subject taught, and the region in which they are employed.

 

Community College Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Community College Instructor need?

A Community College Instructor should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with students and colleagues.

They should have a strong knowledge of the subject they are teaching, and the ability to make complex topics easy to understand.

Organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work in a fast-paced environment are also crucial.

Proficiency in technology, including using digital resources for teaching, is also necessary in today’s educational settings.

 

Do Community College Instructors need a degree?

Yes, Community College Instructors must hold a minimum of a master’s degree in the field they wish to teach.

In some cases, a doctoral degree may be required, especially for more advanced or specialized courses.

In addition to formal education, community colleges often look for candidates with relevant professional or teaching experience.

 

What should you look for in a Community College Instructor resume?

When reviewing a Community College Instructor’s resume, look for advanced degrees in the relevant field, as well as any additional certifications.

Prior teaching experience, particularly at the college level, is also a significant asset.

Publications, research experience, awards, and professional affiliations can further demonstrate their expertise and dedication to their field.

 

What qualities make a good Community College Instructor?

A good Community College Instructor is passionate about their subject and dedicated to student success.

They should be able to adapt their teaching methods to accommodate various learning styles.

Patience, empathy, and strong listening skills are also important, as they will often be working with students who come from diverse backgrounds and may face unique challenges.

 

Is it difficult to hire Community College Instructors?

Hiring Community College Instructors can be challenging due to the specialized knowledge and qualifications required for the role.

To attract the best candidates, institutions often need to offer competitive salaries, opportunities for professional development, and a supportive, inclusive work environment.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unravelled the ins and outs of being a community college instructor.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about teaching lessons.

It’s about shaping the minds of the future, one lecture at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive community college instructor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why draw the line there?

Unearth more with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to crafting immaculate job listings or refining your resume to brilliance.

Remember:

Every lecture is a stepping stone to greater knowledge.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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