Full Time Instructor - Sociology Salary $44,000.00 - $49,522.00 Annually Location OH 45662, OH Job Type Full-Time Job Number POS-389 Division Academic and Student Affairs Department ASA-CAS-Social Sciences Opening Date 02/04/2026 Closing Date Continuous
Description Benefits Job Description Summary The Department of Social Sciences at Shawnee State University invites applications for a full-time Instructor of Sociology with an anticipated start date of August 2026. Applicants should be prepared to teach Introduction to Sociology, Research Methods, and courses in their areas of interest. We are seeking applicants who are eager to introduce students to Applied and Clinical Sociology through a variety of learning opportunities and classroom experiences. Students in our program have produced positive social change in our area while completing their degree and preparing for their future.
The Sociology program prepares students for a wide range of careers in public service, education, nonprofit organizations, policy, community engagement, law, and related professional fields. The program emphasizes the practical application of social science knowledge through the development of essential skills in communication, research, analytical writing, and critical thinking. Courses incorporate experiential learning opportunities such as internships, community-based projects, applied research, or fieldwork. This structure aims to prepare graduates for employment, civic leadership, or further graduate study.
The search committee will begin reviewing applications on April 10, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled.
To APPLY, please submit the following materials through our online application system:
• Cover Letter: Addressed to Dr. Michael Barnhart, Interim Dean, College of Arts & Sciences, detailing how your qualifications and interests fit the position, particularly your commitment to undergraduate instruction. • Curriculum Vitae: Current and comprehensive. • Teaching Philosophy Statement (1-2 pages): Discuss your approach to engaging students and mentoring. • Unofficial Transcripts: Record of graduate coursework representing highest degree attained (official transcripts required upon hire). • References: Contact information for three professional references who can speak to your qualifications. Reference Contact: Upon submission of your application, your references will receive an email with a unique link to submit their confidential recommendation letters.
Candidates invited for an interview will be required to present a teaching sample (e.g., give a lecture) to demonstrate instructional abilities. Specific questions regarding this position may be directed to Dr. Sean Dunne at sdunne@shawnee.edu
Shawnee State offers a competitive salary (commensurate with experience and qualifications) including an attractive benefits package (see Overview of Employee Benefits for more information). Employment with the University is dependent upon BOT budget approval for the fiscal year. Official transcripts and background check are required prior to hire. We are committed to maintaining a learning environment that recognizes and values the many similarities and differences among individuals and groups.
Shawnee State University (SSU) is a small, student-centered public university serving a diverse population, including many first-generation students. Shawnee State University is the regional state university for South-Central Ohio. It is a primarily undergraduate, four-year public university with limited graduate degree programs. Enrollment is approximately 3,700 students. Shawnee State is located on the Ohio River in Portsmouth, Ohio - a small city nestled in a beautiful, rural area of Southern Ohio. Portsmouth is approximately an hour drive from Huntington, WV, and two hours from Columbus or Cincinnati, Ohio. Additional information about SSU is available at www.shawnee.edu.
SSU seeks individuals who share our commitment to students as our first priority.
Shawnee State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. The University prohibits discrimination against any individual because of race, color, genetic information, religion, age, disability, national origin, ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, veteran status or military status. Minimum Qualifications
Master's degree in Sociology or related field
Preferred Qualifications:
• Doctorate (Ph.D. or equivalent) in Applied or Clinical Sociology, or a closely related field by the start date • Prior teaching experience at the college level • Experience with community-based projects and applied research • Demonstrated dedication to undergraduate teaching and mentorship
Shawnee State University offers a competitive starting salary (commensurate with overall qualifications) including an attractive benefits package. See Overview of Employee Benefits for more information. Some of our benefits include:
• Paid Holidays • Paid Winter Break in December • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance • Tuition Waiver • Life Insurance • Retirement Plans
Employer Shawnee State University (OH) Address 940 Second St. Portsmouth, Ohio, 45662 Phone 740-351-3481