Higher Education Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of knowledge expansion, the role of higher education instructors is increasingly crucial.

As the academic world evolves, there is a growing demand for intellectual minds who can educate, inspire, and guide our future leaders.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a higher education instructor?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring educator trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring committee formulating the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply interested in the intricacies of higher education instruction,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable higher education instructor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or university career sites.

Let’s get started.

Higher Education Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Higher Education Instructors, often known as university or college professors, work in public and private universities and colleges, professional schools, and junior or community colleges.

They educate undergraduate or graduate students in their subject of expertise.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Develop and teach courses in their area of expertise
• Prepare and deliver lectures to students on topics such as philosophy, law, or history
• Create, administer, and grade exams to evaluate students’ understanding of the course material
• Guide and mentor students on individual or group projects, field trips, and research work
• Stay updated in their field of expertise by reviewing and contributing to academic journals
• Participate in faculty and college activities
• Advise students on academic and vocational curricula and career issues
• Collaborate with colleagues to address teaching and research issues
• Plan, evaluate and revise curricula, course content, course materials, and methods of instruction
• Engage in student recruitment, registration, and placement activities

 

Higher Education Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Higher Education Instructor to deliver high-quality instruction in their area of expertise at our established institution.

The successful candidate will be responsible for developing course syllabi, delivering lectures, leading classroom discussions, and assessing student performance.

Our ideal candidate has a commitment to fostering an inclusive and engaging educational environment.

 

Responsibilities

• Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as research methods, urban sociology, and applied psychology.
• Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.
• Evaluate and grade students’ class work, assignments, and papers.
• Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others.
• Keep abreast of developments in their field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
• Maintain student attendance records, grades, and other required records.
• Supervise undergraduate or graduate teaching, internship, and research work.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Higher Education Instructor or similar role
• Demonstrated knowledge of the subject being taught
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong presentation skills
• Exceptional organizational skills
• Ability to respond to students’ needs and questions
• PhD or Master’s degree in the subject area

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Higher Education Instructor
• Work Environment: University or college campus
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Department
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Varies significantly depending on field of study, location, and experience
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our institution. 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 statement of your teaching philosophy to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Higher Education Instructor Do?

Higher Education Instructors, often known as professors or lecturers, primarily work in universities and colleges.

They can be full-time faculty members or part-time adjuncts.

Their primary responsibility is to prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on a range of topics related to their area of expertise.

They guide students through their academic coursework, give assignments and projects, and evaluate their work.

Higher Education Instructors also mentor students, advising them on academic and career matters.

They often play a key role in the students’ academic journey by helping them to develop critical thinking skills and deepen their understanding of their chosen field.

They conduct scholarly research and stay abreast of developments in their field in order to provide up-to-date and relevant instruction.

They might also be required to publish their research findings in academic journals or present their work at conferences.

In addition, they may also have administrative tasks, such as participating in faculty meetings, serving on committees, and contributing to the development of academic policies and curricula.

Furthermore, Higher Education Instructors often contribute to the broader academic community by reviewing papers, serving on editorial boards, and participating in professional organizations.

 

Higher Education Instructor Qualifications and Skills

A Higher Education Instructor should have the skills and qualifications that demonstrate their ability to effectively instruct and guide students in a post-secondary educational setting.

This includes:

• Expert knowledge and understanding of their specific academic field or subject area.
• Excellent communication skills to clearly explain complex concepts and theories to students.
• Strong presentation and public speaking skills to deliver lectures, presentations, and seminars effectively.
• Interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with students, colleagues, and administrators.
• Proficiency in instructional technologies and platforms, including digital learning management systems and online teaching tools.
• Ability to design, implement and evaluate course curriculum and instructional methods to promote student learning.
• Problem-solving skills to help students overcome academic challenges and improve their understanding of the course material.
• Time management skills for balancing teaching, grading, office hours, meetings, and research responsibilities.
• Research skills and a commitment to ongoing professional development and learning in their field of study.
• Ability to provide constructive feedback to students, helping them improve their skills and understanding of the course material.
• Possession of a doctoral degree or equivalent in their field of expertise.

 

Higher Education Instructor Experience Requirements

Higher Education Instructors, such as university professors or lecturers, are typically required to hold a doctoral degree in their field of expertise.

This degree not only provides them with a deep understanding of their chosen subject, but also develops their critical thinking, research, and teaching skills.

The path to becoming a Higher Education Instructor involves several years of experience, starting as a graduate student, where they often teach undergraduate classes or assist professors as teaching assistants.

After obtaining their PhD, candidates usually spend a few years in postdoctoral research positions, gaining further experience in their subject and often publishing their research in academic journals.

This research experience is highly valued in higher education roles.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience, particularly those who have supervised students, led seminars, or published extensively, are often preferred for senior roles such as department heads or tenure-track positions.

Many institutions also value experience outside of academia, such as relevant industry experience or international exposure.

This can add a unique perspective to their teaching, and demonstrate the practical application of the subject matter.

Lastly, teaching experience, whether it’s mentoring, lecturing, or conducting workshops, is vital.

Many institutions require a proven track record in teaching at the university level.

Demonstrated ability to mentor students, develop course syllabi, and implement innovative teaching methods are all highly sought after skills in a Higher Education Instructor.

 

Higher Education Instructor Education and Training Requirements

Higher Education Instructors typically need a doctoral degree in the field they intend to teach.

However, a master’s degree can be sufficient for some community colleges or certain professional fields.

In addition to the educational requirements, many universities and colleges also expect their instructors to have relevant experience in the field they intend to teach.

This might be industry experience, research experience, or previous teaching experience.

Potential higher education instructors often need to demonstrate excellent communication skills, ability to simplify complex topics, and a passion for teaching.

They should be able to create a stimulating learning environment that is conducive to student success.

Depending on the specific field of expertise, additional certifications may be required.

For instance, Instructors in fields such as nursing, engineering, or accounting may need to have professional certifications or licenses.

Many Higher Education Instructors also engage in ongoing education in their field, either through professional development or additional degrees.

This demonstrates dedication to the profession and ensures that they are staying up to-date with the latest advancements in their field.

Finally, many universities require Higher Education Instructors to engage in research and publish their findings regularly in scholarly journals.

This contributes to the larger body of knowledge in their field and keeps their teaching material current and relevant.

 

Higher Education Instructor Salary Expectations

A Higher Education Instructor earns an average salary of $74,560 (USD) per year.

The actual income may differ based on factors such as specialization, years of experience, geographical location, and the institution where they are employed.

 

Higher Education Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Higher Education Instructor need?

Higher Education Instructors need excellent communication skills to deliver lectures and engage with students effectively.

They should also have deep knowledge of their subject matter and the ability to conduct research or apply practical examples to support learning.

Additionally, organizational skills, creativity, and the ability to motivate and inspire students are crucial for this role.

 

Does a Higher Education Instructor need a doctorate?

While many Higher Education Instructors hold doctorate degrees, it’s not always a requirement.

In many fields, especially professional or vocational ones, industry experience and master’s degrees might be acceptable.

However, for research-intensive roles or in more academic disciplines, a Ph.D. is often required.

 

What should you look for in a Higher Education Instructor’s resume?

A Higher Education Instructor’s resume should reflect strong academic accomplishments, including advanced degrees and relevant certifications.

A significant number of years of teaching experience, publications, research projects, and any awards or honors received should also be evident.

It’s also beneficial if the resume indicates an ongoing commitment to professional development in their field.

 

What qualities make a good Higher Education Instructor?

A good Higher Education Instructor is passionate about their subject matter and enjoys sharing their knowledge with others.

They are patient, empathetic, and possess the ability to explain complex concepts in a way that students can understand.

They are also open-minded, flexible, and skilled at fostering an inclusive and engaging learning environment.

 

How to attract high-quality Higher Education Instructors?

Attracting high-quality Higher Education Instructors requires offering competitive salaries, opportunities for research or advancement, and a supportive work environment.

Highlighting the institution’s reputation, resources, and commitment to academic excellence can also be appealing.

Additionally, offering flexibility in teaching methods and opportunities for professional development can be enticing.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unfolded the complexities of being a higher education instructor.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about delivering lectures.

It’s about shaping minds and futures, one lesson at a time.

With our practical higher education instructor job description template and real-world examples, you’re equipped to make your next move.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to finely crafted job descriptions or tailoring your CV to perfection.

Bear in mind:

Every lecture you give shapes a student’s future.

Let’s mold that future. Together.

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