Assistant Professor of Graphic Design

Closing Date:

University of Arkansas - Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that's redefining higher education. We're on a mission to provide transformative, hands-on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi-faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. We're committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas's rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state's varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Thank you for your interest in joining our university. Below you will find details for the position including any supplementary documentation and/or questions you should review before submitting your application. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at (479) 788-7080.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 479-788-7080. Applicants are required to submit a request for each position to which they have applied.

Required Education and/or Work Experience:

Terminal degree from an accredited institution in Graphic Design or related field and minimum of two years of professional practice within the field of Design. Applicants with minimum of two years of exceptional professional practice, a bachelor's degree in Graphic Design from an accredited institution, and who will have acquired a terminal degree in Graphic Design or related field from an accredited institution within one year of hire may also be considered.

Preferred Education and/or Work Experience:

Area of expertise is open; those with interests or training in more than one subject area are preferred. Experience teaching at the college or university level strongly preferred.Preferred research interests include: typography, branding, and/or emerging technologies. Experience with print production and/or digital fabrication will be viewed favorably. Ability to draw curricular connections between Graphic Design and Letterpress/Book Arts or Studio Art would be viewed favorably. Membership in professional organizations related to field of expertise is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

To perform the job successfully, the following competencies are required for the essential functions of this position:

• Diverse knowledge in the field of Graphic Design;
• Excellent pedagogical knowledge and skills;
• Excellent organizational and communication skills;
• Ability to work productively within a team;
• Knowledge and experience with assessment of student learning in the discipline, as well as in general education.
• Ability to appropriately use instructional technologies

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Teach upper and lower-level courses in graphic design and related courses, including Foundations
• Participate in professional, university, and departmental service
• Maintain active creative practice appropriate to discipline
• Advise and mentor students
• Assess and evaluate student learning
• Facilitate and respond to diverse student learning needs
• Employ an inclusive and inventive approach in the classroom
• Other duties as assigned

Other Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• A commitment to inclusive teaching practices, with specific knowledge of such practices' implications for pedagogy and professional training in Graphic Design
• Knowledge of the historical and cultural context with which the candidate's work and teaching engages.
• Maintain productive working relationships with students, faculty, and staff of diverse backgrounds
• Implement a variety of teaching methods, with potential teaching in diverse instructional modalities
• Contribute to recruitment and retention efforts
• Collaborate with colleagues and department head to plan, implement, and evaluate curriculum
• Support student organizations and related activities
• Attend and participate in an all faculty and administrative meetings, Student Research Symposium, commencement ceremonies, and other meetings/events as required
• Other duties as assigned.

Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork and by providing leadership to subordinates. Requires consistent on-time attendance.

Additional Information:

Working Relationships: Works with a dynamic team of diverse faculty, staff, and students in a collaborative and growth-oriented environment. Frequent contact with faculty and staff from other colleges and University entities, outside organizations, and the general public.

List Employees Supervised: None

Special Job Dimensions: Work performed primarily in an office/classroom/studio setting. Ability to accommodate multiple teaching modalities and respond to a variety of student learning styles. Occasional travel may be required. Employee regularly speaks and listens. Work hours are dependent upon teaching load, office hours, and other duties as assigned. Work week is typically Monday through Friday.

Background Check Requirements: Criminal background check and MVR

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Sitehttps://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal background check, sex offender registry check, financial history background check, and/or drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, marital or parental status, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, or sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity). Federal law prohibits the University from discriminating on these bases. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University's Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All applicant information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.