Navigating the faculty job search

As the semester winds down, our final Lunch and Learn session of the spring closed with a practical look into the faculty job search process. If you’re considering a faculty career, this recap is packed with the tips, resources and encouragement you need to start strong.

Understanding the timeline

Dr. Daphne Jones started the session by breaking down the academic job search timeline, emphasizing the importance of planning at least six months in advance.

Here’s a simplified view:

• Spring/Summer: Identify career goals and potential institutions, update materials.
• Fall (Sept–Nov): Peak job posting season and application deadlines.
• Winter (Dec–Feb): First-round (often virtual) interviews begin.
• Spring (Mar–May): Campus visits and job offers typically happen.
• Summer: Limited hiring, usually for last-minute or adjunct roles.

Adjunct positions follow a less formal, rolling timeline — especially useful for those wanting flexibility or additional teaching experience.

Where to look for jobs

Finding job postings can feel overwhelming, but there are several trusted platforms:

• Chronicle of Higher Education
• HigherEdJobs.com
• Academic Jobs Wiki
• Discipline-specific boards (e.g., MLA Job List, Science Careers)
• Institutional HR sites

Pro tip: Don’t overlook networking!

Faculty, alumni, and professional associations are great places to discover opportunities and gather insider info.

What Goes Into Your Application Packet?

Dr. Jones walked through the essential documents:

• Cover Letter: Tailored to each institution.
• CV: Highlight education, research, teaching, and service.
• Teaching and Research Statements: Especially for R1 and liberal arts schools.
• Diversity Statement: If requested.
• Letters of Recommendation: Choose referees who know your work well.

A key takeaway? Customize everything. Generic applications won’t stand out in a competitive market.

Tips to strengthen your application

• Start early, revise often.
• Seek feedback from mentors and peers.
• Review job descriptions to identify keywords.
• Practice interview skills, including job talks and teaching demos.
• Track deadlines with a spreadsheet or calendar.

You can also participate in mock interviews to simulate the process and get actionable feedback.  ASU Career Services hosts Big Interview, if you want to use a virtual space to practice and build confidence.

Set SMART goals

Make your job search manageable by setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely) goals. 

For instance:

• Draft my CV by June 15.
• Reach out to three potential recommenders this week.
• Identify five job postings by July 1.
   

Upskill while you wait

Not hearing back right away? Use the time to build new skills:

• Take workshops via Beyond Prof or CIRTL.net. 
• Practice grant writing, leadership, or mentorship.
• Attend webinars (like Beyond Prof’s June 18 session on researching the job market).
   

Facing rejections

Yes, rejection happens. And no, it’s not always about you. Most schools won’t provide individual feedback, but if you have connections in the department, informal insight might be available. If you’re using generic letters of recommendation, consider refreshing them or choosing new writers.

Resources you can use

• Beyond Prof: Videos, workbooks, and webinars.
• CIRTL.net: Workshops on improving teaching and learning and preparing for faculty roles.
• GRD 791 Seminar: A one-credit course to prepare students in applying for faculty positions.
   

Final words

Dr. Jones closed with a powerful reminder, “Stay positive. That one ‘yes’ is out there.” Whether you’re exploring, preparing or applying, the key is to stay informed, proactive and supported.

Be sure to check out the recordings from the full series, and keep an eye out for upcoming Lunch and Learn sessions next semester. You’ve got this!

Links to recordings for each session in the faculty job search series:

• Landscape of U.S. Higher Education Institutions
• Finding your Academic Institution Fit
• The Application Process