Arizona State University (ASU), located primarily in Tempe, Arizona, stands as one of the largest public research universities in the United States, enrolling over 140,000 students across its campuses and online programs. Founded in 1885 as the Territorial Normal School, ASU has evolved into a global leader in innovation, sustainability, and accessibility in higher education. Jobs at Arizona State University span faculty, research, administrative, and support roles, attracting professionals passionate about transformative education and cutting-edge research.
The university's employment landscape reflects its charter, which prioritizes excellence, inclusion, and societal impact. With a workforce exceeding 13,000 employees, opportunities abound in academic departments like the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, W. P. Carey School of Business, and the School for the Future of Innovation in Society. Whether you're eyeing tenure-track professor jobs or staff positions in student services, ASU offers competitive salaries, averaging $80,000-$150,000 for faculty depending on rank and discipline, backed by robust benefits.
Tempe's vibrant campus, nestled near Phoenix in the sunny Southwest, provides a dynamic setting with palm-lined walks, modern facilities, and proximity to tech hubs, making jobs at ASU appealing for those seeking both professional growth and quality of life.
ASU's roots trace back to 1885, when it opened as a teachers' college in Tempe. Renamed Arizona State University in 1958, it gained university status and expanded rapidly under presidents like Michael Crow, who introduced the 'New American University' model in 2002. This framework emphasizes use-inspired research, academic excellence, and broad access, propelling ASU to No. 1 in innovation rankings by U.S. News & World Report for 10 consecutive years as of 2026.
The university's reputation as an employer stems from its scale—four Tempe campuses, plus locations in Phoenix, Mesa, Polytechnic, Downtown Phoenix, Skysong, and international sites—and commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration. Recent accolades include top rankings in online education and sustainability, drawing top talent. For context on broader trends, see the 2026 U.S. News college rankings.
ASU's employer branding shines through initiatives like the Knowledge Enterprise, fostering research commercialization. This history shapes jobs at ASU, prioritizing innovators who align with its mission to solve global challenges.
Jobs at Arizona State University diversify across categories tailored to higher education needs. Faculty positions include tenure-track professors, clinical faculty, lecturers, and instructors. Research roles encompass postdoctoral scholars, research associates, and assistants, often funded by grants from NSF or NIH.
Administrative jobs cover deans, directors, HR specialists, and executive leaders, while staff opportunities span IT, facilities, marketing, and student affairs. For a full breakdown of university job types, including specifics like adjunct professor jobs or research assistant jobs, refer to dedicated resources.
Explore higher ed faculty jobs or research jobs for current listings. ASU's emphasis on online and hybrid models opens remote higher ed jobs.
Securing jobs at Arizona State University demands targeted qualifications. For faculty roles, a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in the relevant field is standard—essential for tenure-track positions where candidates must demonstrate research potential through publications in top journals and grant acquisition experience.
Research focus varies by school: sustainability experts for the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Institute, AI specialists for the School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence. Preferred experience includes 3-5 years post-PhD, peer-reviewed papers (e.g., 10+ for assistant professors), and teaching portfolios with student evaluations above 4.0/5.0.
Skills and competencies emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation, data analysis proficiency (e.g., Python, R), grant writing, and inclusive teaching. Admin roles require bachelor's/master's degrees, leadership experience, and familiarity with tools like Banner or Workday.
PhD or terminal degree (e.g., EdD for education roles, MD for health sciences). Master's sufficient for lecturers or staff.
Alignment with ASU priorities: transdisciplinary themes like health outcomes, urban resilience. Examples: climate modeling for sustainability jobs.
Publications (h-index 5+), grants ($500K+), postdoctoral fellowships, industry collaborations.
Tenure-track: A pathway to permanent faculty status after review (typically 6 years). Postdoctoral researcher (postdoc): Temporary role (1-3 years) for advanced training. Inclusive excellence: ASU's model integrating diversity into academic quality. Grant: Funding from agencies like NSF (National Science Foundation) for specific projects.
The application process for jobs at Arizona State University begins online via the ASU Career Portal (asu.edu/careers). Steps include:
Tips for success: Customize documents to echo ASU's charter—mention innovation, inclusion. Use metrics: 'Secured $1M NSF grant' over vague claims. Network via conferences or LinkedIn. Prepare for interviews with 30-60 minute research talks. Leverage how to write a winning academic CV and free resume templates. Apply early; rolling deadlines common. Track status via portal.
For lecturer paths, see become a university lecturer.
ASU leads in diversity, with 55% underrepresented minorities among students and targeted hiring. The Inclusive Communities Project trains faculty on bias reduction. Advance ASU promotes women in STEM via mentoring and funding. The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (ODEI) oversees recruitment, partnering with HBCUs and Hispanic-serving institutions.
Specific examples: Faculty Search Toolkit mandates diverse pools; 2025 saw 40% diverse hires in STEM. Employee resource groups like LAMBDA and Adelante support LGBTQ+ and Latinx staff. This fosters inclusive excellence, boosting innovation—diverse teams publish 20% more impactful research per internal studies.
ASU prioritizes well-being with 22 vacation days, parental leave (12 weeks), and flexible work for staff. Tempe campus features 1,000+ acres, fitness centers, pools, and 300+ clubs. Wellness programs include free yoga, counseling, and Employee Assistance Program.
Campus life thrives with events like Sun Devil Welcome Week, sustainability fairs, and proximity to hiking in South Mountain. Family-friendly perks: on-site childcare, tuition reduction (up to 50% for dependents). Tempe's 300 sunny days/year, arts scene, and Phoenix metro access enhance living. Surveys show 85% employee satisfaction with balance.
Professional development via workshops, sabbaticals (every 6 years for faculty), and leadership programs supports growth.
Jobs at Arizona State University offer unparalleled opportunities in a innovative, inclusive environment in Tempe, Arizona. From faculty to research roles, align your expertise with ASU's mission for impactful work. Prepare with higher ed career advice, browse higher ed jobs and university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. Start your journey today.
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