California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (CPP), commonly known as Cal Poly Pomona, is a leading public university in the California State University (CSU) system. Located in Pomona, California, CPP is renowned for its "learn by doing" philosophy, which emphasizes practical, hands-on education across nine colleges offering over 110 degrees. As one of the top public universities in the West—ranked No. 2 by U.S. News & World Report—CPP attracts talented professionals seeking meaningful careers in higher education. Jobs at Cal Poly Pomona span faculty positions, staff openings, research roles, and administrative opportunities, all contributing to its mission of fostering innovation, social mobility, and undergraduate teaching excellence.
The university's commitment to practical learning creates unique employment opportunities in fields like agriculture, engineering, hospitality management, and business. With a diverse student body of over 28,000 and a focus on social mobility (ranked No. 9 nationally), CPP values employees who can engage students through real-world projects. Employment at CPP means joining a dynamic community where faculty and staff collaborate on cutting-edge initiatives, from the W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Center to NASA design challenges.
Founded in 1938 as the Voorhis School for Boys and later acquired by the state in 1949, Cal Poly Pomona evolved into a polytechnic institute emphasizing applied learning. Its 1,438-acre campus, including working farms and ranches, reflects this heritage, providing employees with unparalleled hands-on environments. Over decades, CPP has grown into a powerhouse, consistently ranking high for innovation (No. 3) and undergraduate teaching (No. 9). This history shapes its hiring, prioritizing candidates with practical expertise who can uphold the learn-by-doing tradition.
CPP's employment legacy includes producing successful alumni like Erica Ben ('18 business, '20 MBA), who now runs EmpowerStart, and faculty like Professor Denisse Vasquez-Guevara, known for authentic mentorship. Programs like Horses for Heroes pair student veterans with horses, highlighting CPP's supportive culture for staff and faculty passionate about community impact.
Careers at CPP are diverse, catering to academic, research, and support needs. Common position types include:
For more on types of positions available, explore detailed breakdowns. CPP frequently hires for its colleges of Engineering, Agriculture, and Business Administration, reflecting its strengths.
To understand jobs at Cal Poly Pomona, key terms include:
For faculty jobs at Cal Poly Pomona, a PhD or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant field is typically required, such as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine for animal health roles or EdD for education positions. Master's degrees suffice for lecturers or staff in non-tenure roles.
CPP prioritizes applied research aligning with industry needs. Expertise in sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, or agribusiness is valued, given the campus farms and ranches. Faculty often lead projects like those in NASA's University Student Design Challenge, where CPP excelled.
Candidates with publications in peer-reviewed journals, secured grants, and industry experience stand out. Teaching portfolios demonstrating hands-on methods and mentorship, like Professor Vasquez-Guevara's style, are preferred.
Essential skills include strong communication, collaboration, and adaptability to diverse classrooms. Competencies in curriculum development, student advising, and technology integration (e.g., for academic CV enhancement) are key. For staff, project management and customer service excel.
To apply for jobs at Cal Poly Pomona, visit the official CPP Human Resources website or platforms like higher ed jobs. Steps include:
Actionable tips: Customize applications to CPP's polytechnic focus, network via LinkedIn or campus events, and apply early as positions fill quickly. Review how to become a university lecturer for salary insights.
Cal Poly Pomona champions diversity through the Inclusive Excellence Framework, targeting underrepresented groups in STEM and agriculture. Initiatives include the Horses for Heroes program for veterans, Latinx faculty recruitment, and the President's Commission on Equity and Inclusion. CPP ranks high for graduating Latino students earning science doctorates and social mobility, fostering an inclusive environment for employees. Affirmative action in hiring ensures diverse perspectives, with training on cultural competency.
Working at CPP offers excellent work-life balance with flexible schedules, generous PTO, and CSU benefits like tuition reductions for dependents. The 1,438-acre campus features farms (cattle crossings are common), the Arabian Horse Center, hiking trails, and proximity to Los Angeles. Employees enjoy events like commencement celebrations, Starbucks at the library, and a supportive community. Programs like Horses for Heroes promote wellness, while rankings for teaching excellence create fulfilling roles. Pomona's location provides urban access with suburban calm, ideal for families.
Jobs at Cal Poly Pomona combine impact and innovation in a top-ranked setting. With strong rankings and alumni success, it's ideal for those passionate about hands-on education. Explore higher ed career advice, university jobs, or professor salaries for more. For openings, check faculty jobs or post your profile on AcademicJobs.com.
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