Chemistry Instructor (Full-time Tenure-Track Faculty Position)
Job Description
Posting Number
2014410FPosition Title
Chemistry Instructor (Full-time Tenure-Track Faculty Position)Location
Skyline CollegeDepartment
Sciences / Math / Technology SKY (DEPT)Position Number
2F0162Percentage of Full Time
The work year is 175 days (10 months of service).FLSA
Exempt (does not accrue overtime)Months per Year
10Salary Range
Depending on educational credentials, placement can range from $86,304 to $121,488 per year.Position Type
Faculty PositionsWho We Are
The San Mateo County Community College District is committed to achieving educational equity for all students. As outlined in the District’s Strategic Plan, “success, equity, and social justice for our students are longstanding goals.” The District’s “Students First” Strategic Plan is focused on "Student Success, Equity and Social Justice.” We provide students with a rich and dynamic learning experience that embraces our commitment to provide quality education and promote life-long learning — emphasizing collaboration and engaging students in and out of the classroom, encouraging them to realize their goals, and to become global citizens and socially responsible leaders. When you join our San Mateo County Community College District team, you can expect to be part of an inclusive, innovative and equity-focused community that approaches higher education as a matter of social justice. We achieve this through broad collaboration among faculty and classified staff, administration, students and community partners.
The College and the District
Skyline College is part of the San Mateo County Community College District and is designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), enrolling approximately 16,000 students each academic year. Skyline College has a diverse student population that is a reflection of the communities that it serves. Detailed information about the student population, including data related to student success, can be found on Skyline College’s Office of Planning, Research, Innovation, & Effectiveness (PRIE) website.
Who We Want
We value the ability to serve students from a broad range of academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, racial and ethnic backgrounds We prioritize applicants who demonstrate an understanding of the benefits that diversity brings to a professional educational community. The successful candidate will be an equity-minded individual who is committed to collaborating with faculty, classified staff, administration, students and community partners in strengthening the culture of equity and antiracism throughout the District. The San Mateo County Community District seeks employees who value mentorship and working in a collegial, collaborative environment, guided by a commitment to helping students achieve their educational goals.
An equity-minded individual is a person who already does or has demonstrated the desire to:
(1) Understand the importance of holding ourselves accountable as educators for closing equity gaps and engaging in equitable practices;
(2) Reframe inequities as a problem of practice and view the elimination of inequities as an individual and collective responsibility;
(3) Encourage positive race-consciousness and embrace human difference;
(4) Reflect on institutional and teaching practices and aim to make them more culturally responsive; and
(5) Strategically build buy-in and participation among colleagues for equity-related initiatives.
The San Mateo County Community District seeks employees who value mentorship and working in a collegial, collaborative environment, guided by a commitment to helping all students achieve their educational goals. All departments strongly encourage collaboration across disciplines to create inclusive, integrated, and interdisciplinary learning experiences. College faculty are expected to be knowledgeable about, and willing to use, different learning and teaching methods appropriate for the students whom we serve.
The Position
The College seeks a full-time, tenure-track faculty member in Chemistry. The ideal candidate will share the College’s commitment to educating a racially and socioeconomically diverse student population.
Start date of this assignment: Fall 2025.
Start date of this assignment: Fall 2025.
Duties and Responsibilities
The duties below are representative of the duties of the classification and are not intended to cover all of the duties performed by the incumbent(s) of any particular position. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the scope of work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to this classification.
- Teach lecture and laboratory classes as assigned from the regular Chemistry Department Curriculum, which may include Introductory Chemistry, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Chemistry for Health Professionals, or other Chemistry courses
- Assist in curriculum revisions and new course development, department planning, and program review
- Participate in the development and/or selection of course materials, equipment, and technology that will enhance the Chemistry offerings of the department
- Participate, on an ongoing basis, in the development, assessment, and analysis of student learning outcomes in Chemistry
- Maintain expertise in current teaching and discipline technologies
- Consult with students during regularly scheduled office hours
- Serve as a member of division and college committees
- Perform other duties as required by contract, collective bargaining agreement, and general institutional needs in a timely manner
- The college offers day and evening classes, and faculty may be required to teach a class in the evening
Minimum Qualifications
- Master’s or above in chemistry OR Bachelor’s in chemistry or biochemistry AND a Master’s or above in biochemistry, chemical engineering, chemical physics, physics, molecular biology, or geochemistry, OR the equivalent (see below)
- Demonstrated cultural competence, sensitivity to, and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, ethnic, neurodivergent, and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds of community college students, faculty, and staff as these factors relate to the need for equity minded-practice both within and outside of the classroom
Equivalence to Minimum Qualifications
For persons applying for this position based on Equivalence, please answer the supplemental question on the online application indicating one of the following:
Degree Equivalence
The applicant possesses a degree(s) with similar content to those listed for the relevant discipline. The name of the degree is close to that specified on the Disciplines List but the degree either has a different title or area of expertise or the coursework is slightly different.
Academic Background Equivalence
Related to disciplines in which a Master’s Degree is not generally expected or available. The applicant must have completed at least 24 semester units of coursework in the academic field and must possess at least the equivalent level of achievement and the equivalent in breadth, depth of understanding, and rigor in each of the following:
i) a broad cultural education usually met by the general education requirements for any Bachelor’s or Associate’s Degree, and
ii) a detailed study of the discipline in breadth, depth, and rigor, usually met by course work required for the degree major.
Professional Achievement Equivalence
The applicant must have completed the General Education requirements for that degree and show evidence of outstanding professional achievement and/or substantial training in the requested field. The applicant must submit substantial evidence, which demonstrates that his/her preparation, teaching experience, work experience, and ability are equivalent to those expected from a person who meets the minimum qualifications.
Degree Equivalence
The applicant possesses a degree(s) with similar content to those listed for the relevant discipline. The name of the degree is close to that specified on the Disciplines List but the degree either has a different title or area of expertise or the coursework is slightly different.
Academic Background Equivalence
Related to disciplines in which a Master’s Degree is not generally expected or available. The applicant must have completed at least 24 semester units of coursework in the academic field and must possess at least the equivalent level of achievement and the equivalent in breadth, depth of understanding, and rigor in each of the following:
i) a broad cultural education usually met by the general education requirements for any Bachelor’s or Associate’s Degree, and
ii) a detailed study of the discipline in breadth, depth, and rigor, usually met by course work required for the degree major.
Professional Achievement Equivalence
The applicant must have completed the General Education requirements for that degree and show evidence of outstanding professional achievement and/or substantial training in the requested field. The applicant must submit substantial evidence, which demonstrates that his/her preparation, teaching experience, work experience, and ability are equivalent to those expected from a person who meets the minimum qualifications.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Subject matter preparation:
- Recent successful experience in teaching, or preparation to teach, college-level courses in Chemistry, including General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Analytical Instrumentation, and Chemical Laboratory Technology
- Prior working experience in an industry setting is highly desirable, but not necessary
Evidence of outstanding ability as a teacher:
Appropriate evidence includes, but is not limited to, experience, training, or achievement that the candidate has:
Appropriate evidence includes, but is not limited to, experience, training, or achievement that the candidate has:
- A commitment to staying abreast with the latest developments in chemistry
- The ability to reflect on and evaluate one’s pedagogy and to examine its effect critically
- The ability to organize and explain materials in ways appropriate to students’ abilities and learning styles in both developmental and transfer courses
- The ability to use teaching methods that engage students actively in their learning, promote the development of critical thinking skills, and encourage them to become lifelong learners
- The ability to use instructional methods that emphasize cooperation and collaboration and that reflect cultural sensitivity and interdisciplinary approaches to the subject matter
- The ability to motivate students from a broad spectrum of academic, socioeconomic, ethnic, neurodivergent, and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds
- The ability to develop student learning outcomes and to develop methods for assessing students’ achievement of those outcomes
- The enthusiasm for, understanding of, and commitment to the role and purpose of the community college
- A familiarity with and willingness to expand the use of technology in chemistry education, including online instruction
- A commitment to the teaching profession, its goals and ideals, and enthusiasm for the mission of the community college
Evidence of effectiveness as a colleague:
- The ability, initiative, and commitment to work collaboratively with faculty and staff in the spirit of collegiality and innovation to enhance instruction, curriculum, and student success
- Commitment to professional responsibilities outside of the classroom through enthusiastic contributions to department, division and college activities
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience supporting diverse students in higher education with an understanding of systemic barriers to student success
- Commitment to refining teaching practices to better serve all students
- Demonstrated success in creating equitable learning environments
- Experience with inclusive and culturally-responsive teaching practices in chemistry
- Track record of improving student outcomes across different groups
- Understanding of the HSI designation and its practical applications in teaching
- Extensive knowledge of Organic Chemistry principles and proven teaching experience in the field
Faculty Benefits
Benefits include paid holidays, vacation and sick leave. The District pays all or a portion of monthly medical plan premiums (depending on the coverage) and pays all of the monthly dental and vision plan premiums for employees and eligible dependents. Additional paid benefits include life insurance, salary continuance insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program. Academic employees participate in the State Teachers’ Retirement System, a defined-benefit retirement plan through the State of California (no contributions to Social Security). Optional tax-deferred 403(b) and 457 retirement plans are also available.
Open Date
01/30/2025First Review Date
03/06/2025Open Until Filled
YesSpecial Instructions Summary
Required Application Materials
All applicants are required to submit:
All applicants are required to submit:
1. A completed online District application form (go to https://jobs.smccd.edu to complete the application and to apply for this position)
2. A resume that details all relevant education, training, and teaching experience (including courses taught), and other work experience
3. Undergraduate and graduate academic transcripts (copies accepted)
Unofficial copies of all undergraduate and graduate academic transcripts may be submitted with the application; official copies will be required at the time of hire.
4. A cover letter that includes a discussion of the following questions:
- How do you adapt your teaching methods to create an inclusive learning environment that promotes success for students from diverse backgrounds and experiences? What specific approaches have proven most impactful in your experience?
If you have any questions regarding your application, please contact:
SMCCCD Office of Human Resources
3401 CSM Drive, San Mateo, CA 94402
Tel.: (650) 574-6555 Fax (650) 574-6574
Email: smccdjobs@smccd.edu
Web Page: https://smccd.edu/humanresources/
Conditions of Employment
Prior to employment, the selected candidate will be required to complete the following:
1. Submit official transcripts (applies to all faculty or educational administrative positions)
Foreign Education completed outside of the United States must be deemed equivalent to that gained in conventional/accredited U.S. education programs in order for it to be considered for the satisfaction of minimum qualifications. Foreign transcripts must be translated and evaluated by a U.S.-based credentials evaluation service. The District currently accepts evaluations from agencies approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
2. Submit verifications of prior employment
3. Satisfactory references
4. Successfully being cleared for employment through the background-checking process
In addition to background checks, the District may review publicly available information about a candidate on the Internet. If a candidate is aware of incorrect or inaccurate information that is available on the Internet, the candidate is welcome to address such an issue with the Office of Human Resources.
5. Present original documents for proof of eligibility to work in the United States
6. Approval of your employment by the SMCCCD Board of Trustees
7. Provide a certificate of Tuberculosis exam for initial employment.
8. Have fingerprints taken by a Live Scan computer (Clearance must be received prior to first day of employment). Please note that the California Education Code requires, in part, that community college districts shall not employ or retain in employment persons in public school service who have been convicted of certain felonies, a misdemeanor drug charge (including alcohol offenses) or misdemeanor moral turpitude (sexual offense) crime. However, consideration may be given to those whose drug convictions occurred more than five years ago. A conviction for other crimes may not necessarily disqualify you from the job for which you may be applying.
1. Submit official transcripts (applies to all faculty or educational administrative positions)
Foreign Education completed outside of the United States must be deemed equivalent to that gained in conventional/accredited U.S. education programs in order for it to be considered for the satisfaction of minimum qualifications. Foreign transcripts must be translated and evaluated by a U.S.-based credentials evaluation service. The District currently accepts evaluations from agencies approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
2. Submit verifications of prior employment
3. Satisfactory references
4. Successfully being cleared for employment through the background-checking process
In addition to background checks, the District may review publicly available information about a candidate on the Internet. If a candidate is aware of incorrect or inaccurate information that is available on the Internet, the candidate is welcome to address such an issue with the Office of Human Resources.
5. Present original documents for proof of eligibility to work in the United States
6. Approval of your employment by the SMCCCD Board of Trustees
7. Provide a certificate of Tuberculosis exam for initial employment.
8. Have fingerprints taken by a Live Scan computer (Clearance must be received prior to first day of employment). Please note that the California Education Code requires, in part, that community college districts shall not employ or retain in employment persons in public school service who have been convicted of certain felonies, a misdemeanor drug charge (including alcohol offenses) or misdemeanor moral turpitude (sexual offense) crime. However, consideration may be given to those whose drug convictions occurred more than five years ago. A conviction for other crimes may not necessarily disqualify you from the job for which you may be applying.
EEO Statement
The San Mateo County Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer that seeks to employ individuals who represent the rich diversity of cultures, language groups, and abilities of its surrounding communities.
Accommodations
Applicants who have disabilities may request that special accommodations be made in order to complete the selection process. Accommodation requests and a copy of the Americans with Disabilities Act applicant procedures can be made by completing our: Applicant Reasonable Accommodation Request Form
Annual Security Report
San Mateo County Community College District’s (SMCCCD) 2024 Annual Security Report (ASR), required by the Clery Act, includes statistics for the previous three years (2021–2023) concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus; in certain off-campus buildings owned or controlled by SMCCCD; and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from SMCCCD. The 2024 Annual Security Report also outlines various campus safety and security policies concerning crime reporting, prevention and response to sexual and gender violence, alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, emergency response and evacuation procedures, and other matters. The Annual Security Report also includes important tips to help every community member remain safe and avoid becoming a victim of crime. The 2024 Annual Security Report is now available on the Public Safety website. You can also obtain a copy of this report by contacting the Department of Public Safety at the District Office or any of the three Campuses (650) 738-7000. The report includes information about criminal activity on our campuses, emergency procedures, and resources.
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