2024-2025 Teaching Specialist or Lecturer

About the Job

The Department of American Indian Studies in the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Minnesota occasionally needs teaching specialists or lecturers to teach courses that cannot be staffed by regular faculty or graduate students. Openings of this kind sometime occur for teaching evening and summer session, as well as day courses and courses offered through Independent and Distance Learning. The courses are primarily introductory or survey courses. These positions are temporary and part-time. 

This does not constitute a posting for vacancies, but establishes a pool of applicants should openings occur during the academic year. Applicants will be selected from this pool on an as-needed basis through academic year. Appointments may be renewable based on need, funding, and performance.

Teaching specialists and lecturers will be expected to teach undergraduate or graduate students in assigned course(s), hold office hours to assist and advise students, and participate in relevant departmental meetings.

Qualifications

• B.A. in American Indian Studies or related field. American Indian Studies is flexible with its degree requirements. Other important hiring criteria include academic training, prior teaching experience, and relevant life or professional experience.
• Develop and teach courses
• Advise students regarding both specific coursework and broader academic or career goals
• Engage in research and publication, and/or artistic or scientific creation. Provide service through participation in governance of the department and/or the University
• Contribute to the development of the profession through participation in national and/or international associations, publications, and/or other related activities
• Continue personal growth within the profession, keep current with the field, and broaden knowledge and expertise
• Contribute to outreach activities that support the unit’s mission

About the Department

The Department of American Indian Studies at the University of Minnesota strives to cultivate Native leaders and allies by providing a critical and comprehensive education in the field of Native American and Indigenous Studies. American Indian Studies majors receive training in contemporary Native literary and artistic expression, legal and political issues, and historical experiences.

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services 
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your “My Job Applications” page and uploading documents in the “My Cover Letters and Attachments” section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail [email protected] or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About the U of M

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation’s most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).

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