The Department of Earth Environmental and Atmospheric Sciences EEAS at Western Kentucky University WKU invites applications for a temporary Instructor of Geographic Information Systems GIS for a one-year appointment beginning July 1, 2026.
This position is ideal for a GIS professional educator or applied geoscientist who is enthusiastic about teaching foundational GIS skills, mentoring undergraduate students, and contributing to a hands-on workforce-oriented GIS curriculum. The successful candidate will join a collaborative department that values applied learning, emerging technologies, and student success.
Position Responsibilities
The Instructor of GIS will teach 3-4 undergraduate GIS courses per semester in a traditional face-to-face lab-based instructional environment with small class sizes. Courses primarily serve students majoring or minoring in geography, geosciences, environmental studies, sustainability, meteorology, emergency management, and related applied fields, as well as students seeking GIS workforce skills.
Primary teaching responsibilities include introductory and foundational GIS coursework, emphasizing both theoretical understanding and hands-on technical proficiency. Instruction will focus on building students spatial thinking skills while preparing them for internships, research experiences, and entry-level geospatial careers.
Core Instructional Content Includes
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems concepts and applications Spatial data models, including vector and raster data structures Coordinate systems, map projections, datums, and georeferencing Spatial data creation, editing, and topology Geodatabase design, management, and attribute data handling Digitizing and feature creation from multiple data sources Vector spatial analysis techniques, buffer overlay, intersect, clip, dissolve Raster analysis techniques, reclassification, surface analysis, suitability modeling, map algebra Cartographic principles, map layout, and effective visual communication Introduction to spatial problem solving using real-world datasets
Instruction is expected to emphasize applied GIS workflows, critical thinking, and problem-based learning using authentic datasets drawn from environmental, urban, sustainability, climate, meteorology, emergency management, geology, and geoscience contexts.
Emerging Technologies & Innovation
The department is especially interested in candidates who can bring advanced or new creative or emerging geospatial skills into introductory-level GIS courses or related offerings. These may include but are not limited to:
Artificial Intelligence AI and machine learning concepts as they relate to geospatial analysis Remote sensing fundamentals, including satellite and aerial imagery interpretation Photogrammetry, including drone-derived imagery and 3D data products Image classification, object-based analysis, or automation workflows Integration of GIS with environmental monitoring, sustainability analysis, or applied research Exposure to scripting, automation, or modern GIS workflows, e.g., model building, reproducible analysis
While deep specialization is not required, candidates should demonstrate a willingness and ability to introduce students to evolving GIS technologies and the future direction of the geospatial profession.
Teaching & Student Engagement
The instructor is expected to:
Teach in a hands-on lab-centered environment Support students with varying levels of technical background Foster an inclusive, supportive, and student-centered learning environment Clearly communicate expectations, provide timely feedback, and mentor students academically Emphasize workforce-relevant skills, professional standards, and applied GIS competencies
This role is well-suited for candidates who enjoy working closely with undergraduates and who value experiential learning, applied problem-solving, and skill development.
Teaching Environment & Departmental Context
Courses are taught in person using dedicated GIS computer laboratories Small class sizes allow for individualized instruction and mentoring Emphasis on applied learning, spatial analysis, and real-world problem-solving Supportive departmental culture with opportunities to contribute ideas to the evolving GIS curriculum
Knowledge and Skills Considered Essential for Success
Strong working knowledge of modern GIS platforms, e.g., ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, or equivalent Exposure to remote sensing, photogrammetry, AI, or emerging geospatial technologies Demonstrated ability to teach applied, lab-based courses effectively Interest in curriculum development and innovative instructional approaches
Appointment Details
Full-time, temporary, one-year appointment Continuation and/or renewal is dependent on need and funding Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience
Job Requirements
Masters degree in Geography, GIS, Geosciences, Environmental Science, or a closely related field by the time of appointment Bachelors degree in a related field with current Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP) certification and at least five years of full-time professional experience in that field
Additional Information
Kentucky state law requires all public institutions of postsecondary education to conduct pre-employment criminal background checks to determine suitability for employment.
Western Kentucky University (WKU) is committed to a policy and practice of providing equal employment and educational opportunities to all individuals. In accordance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Revised 1992, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, no form of discrimination or harassment will be tolerated at WKU on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, expression, marital status, age, uniformed services veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, or physical or mental disability in admission to career and technical education programs and/or activities, or employment practices.
Persons with disabilities who need reasonable accommodations to participate in the application and/or selection process should notify the office of Institutional Equity. To request an accommodation, report a complaint, or ask questions regarding WKUs Discrimination and Harassment Policy 0.2040, please contact Ms. Ena Demir, Executive Director, Title IX Coordinator, via email at
ena.demir@wku.edu
or by phone at 270-745-6867. Ms. Demir is also responsible for coordinating the Universitys response to complaints related to sex and gender harassment. Additional information regarding Title IX is accessible via WKUs https://www.wku.edu/titleixwebsite.