Adjunct Faculty (GE-STEM)

Job Description:

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Adjunct Faculty positions in Environmental Science, Biology, and Nutrition Science play pivotal roles in preparing students for careers in Education, Social Work, Community Psychology, and Human Development. Faculty members will teach courses in Environmental Science, Biology, and Nutrition, emphasizing ecological sustainability, biological sciences, and nutritional health. This involves guiding students through critical theories and practical applications, encouraging inquiry, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

The position reports to the Dean and is based in Pasadena, CA, with potential assignments to teach at offsite locations or online.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

The adjunct faculty member operates with a high degree of independence in managing day-to-day responsibilities, receiving minimal direct instruction. Guidance is provided for new assignments or projects, allowing faculty members to utilize their expertise while aligning with departmental goals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Instructional Responsibilities

• Provide college-level instruction for students pursuing degrees in Education, Social Work, Community Psychology and Human Development, ensuring alignment with program goals and learning outcomes.
• Design and deliver lectures, lab activities, and assignments that promote engagement and meet course objectives.
• Employ diverse instructional methods to foster an inclusive learning environment for a diverse student population.

2. Assessment and Evaluation

• Assess student assignments thoroughly and provide constructive, timely feedback.
• Evaluate student performance through assignments, projects, participation, and presentations using standard college-level grading methods.

3. Curriculum Development and Collaboration

• Collaborate with colleagues on course curriculum and teaching strategies to promote critical thinking and reflective practice.
• Develop and adjust course materials to align with program objectives and evolving best practices in the field.

4. Professional Development

• Stay current with scholarship, research, and best practices in early childhood education.
• Continuously improve instructional strategies to enhance the learning experience.

5. Communication and Administrative Duties

• Maintain accurate records of student progress and performance.
• Respond to student inquiries via email or phone in a timely manner.
• Use technology effectively to support instruction and communication with students.

Is regular attendance an essential function?  ☒ Yes          ☐ No

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES:

• KNOWLEDGE:
  • Ecological principles and sustainability
  • Cellular and molecular biology
  • Human anatomy and physiology
  • Nutritional science and dietetics
  • Environmental health and safety
  • Public health policies
  • Biotechnology and genetic engineering
  • Climate change and its impact on health
  • Field research and laboratory techniques

• SKILLS:
  • Proficiency in common internet tools, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
  • Ability to effectively communicate using Pacific Oaks College’s learning management system
  • Ability to create and implement curriculum in alignment with learning outcomes
• ABILITIES:
  • Foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment for a diverse student population
  • Evaluate student work and provide timely, constructive feedback
  • Collaborate with colleagues on curriculum development and teaching strategies
  • Integrate diverse instructional methods to meet the needs of all learners.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

Required: 

• Education:
  • Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Nutrition, or a related field.

• Experience:
  • Relevant professional experience in Environmental Science, Biology, or Nutrition.
  • Familiarity with andragogy and adult learning theory.
  • Experience working with students from diverse backgrounds.
  • Commitment to supporting the mission of the institution.

Preferred: 

• Education:
  • Doctorate in Environmental Science, Biology, Nutrition, or a related field.
• Experience:
  • Publications, presentations, and research in relevant fields.
  • Certification in public health, dietetics, or environmental health.
  • Knowledge of Canvas or similar learning management systems.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

• Office environment; typically, 70 degrees
• Noise level is usually quiet to moderately noisy while in the office

EQUIPMENT USED:

• Computer/Laptop
• Telephone
• Copier, scanner and fax machines

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL & MENTAL TASKS: (Check all that apply):

Physical Demands:

☒ Standing                        ☒ Lifting:  5 Lbs.               ☐ Pushing/Pulling                           ☐ Driving

☒ Walking                          ☐ Carrying                         ☒ Hearing                                          ☒ Speaking

☐ Reaching                        ☒ Writing                           ☐ Squatting/Kneeling                   ☒ Seeing

☐ Climbing                         ☐ Pushing                          ☒ Other:  Typing

Physical Environment - Exposed to: 

☒ Noise                              ☐ Heat/Cold                     ☐ Fumes/Gases                               ☐ Human Tissue/Fluids

☒ Chemicals                      ☐ Carcinogens                  ☒ Dirt                                   ☒ Animal Tissue/Fluids

☐ Toxic Chemicals           ☐ Radiation                        ☒Other:  Dust

☐ Biohazardous Material

Mental Demands: 

☒ Reading                          ☐ Frequent Interruptions           ☒ Periods of Concentrated Attention   

☒ Detailed Work             ☐ Irregular Work Schedule         ☒ Frequent Contact with People

☒ Frequent Deadlines                  ☐Other: 

☐ Multiple Concurrent Tasks

TRAVEL: (% of total time): [Example]Up to 50% of total time

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:

The noise level in the work environment is usually quite to moderately noisy while in the office.  The office temperature is about 70 degrees.

DECISION MAKING:

The position is governed by the policies of Pacific Oaks, along with established procedures for the department. Independent judgment is required in the supervision of personnel as well as in the carrying out of the department's strategic goals and budget management.

CONTACT RESPONSIBILITIES:

Routine exchange or presentation of information.

Responsible for demonstrating professionalism and leadership in resolving conflicts with students and employees.  Recommends alternative approaches to solve problems and conflicts. 

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:

This position does not require the management of budgets, but it is required to follow Pacific Oaks policies for purchasing and budget approvals.

Compensation & Benefits

This opportunity is budgeted at $25.00-27.50 base compensation. Additional compensation factors may impact total compensation. To learn more about our competitive benefits and additional rewards, including generous paid time-off, medical and dental insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, retirement plan with employer contribution, multiple flexible spending accounts, tuition reimbursement, click the link below.

https://www.pacificoaks.edu/about/careers-pacific-oaks/

Pacific Oaks is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Pacific Oaks participates in E-Verify and verifies identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Pacific Oaks offers equal employment opportunities to all persons without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, parental status, housing status, source of income or military status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local EEO laws.