California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) stands as a vital public university in the heart of Kern County, California. Established to serve the educational needs of the Central Valley, CSUB has grown into a dynamic institution offering a range of bachelor's, master's, and credential programs. With approximately 12,000 students, it is recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), emphasizing access and success for first-generation and underrepresented students. Located in Bakersfield, a city known for its energy industry and agricultural heritage, CSUB jobs attract professionals passionate about regional impact.
The university's commitment to student-centered education shapes its employment landscape. Jobs at California State University, Bakersfield span faculty positions, administrative roles, and support staff, all contributing to its mission of transforming lives through higher education. Whether you're seeking tenure-track opportunities or staff positions, CSUB provides a collaborative environment focused on teaching excellence and community engagement.
Founded in 1965 as Kern State College, CSUB began with a small cohort of students on a temporary campus before moving to its permanent 172-acre site in 1970. It joined the California State University (CSU) system and was renamed in 1988. Key milestones include achieving university status, expanding graduate programs, and earning HSI designation in 2006. Today, under President Horace Mitchell since 2010, CSUB has invested in facilities like the Science I and III buildings and the Doyle Center for Integrated Liberal Arts.
This history informs jobs at CSUB, where faculty and staff contribute to ongoing growth. The university's evolution from a regional college to a comprehensive institution highlights opportunities for those interested in higher ed jobs with a focus on equity and innovation.
CSUB offers over 36 bachelor's degrees and 17 master's programs across schools of Business & Public Administration, Humanities & Social Sciences, Natural Sciences & Mathematics, and Social Sciences & Education. Popular fields include nursing, business administration, liberal studies, and engineering sciences. The university also has specialized programs like aviation and public policy.
Faculty jobs often arise in growing areas such as computer science, education, and health sciences. For instance, the School of Business frequently seeks lecturers with industry experience. Explore university job types to see how these align with CSUB openings.
Jobs at CSUB include tenure-track professor positions, lecturer roles, adjunct faculty, administrative leadership like deans and directors, research associates, and support staff in IT, HR, and facilities. Faculty openings emphasize teaching loads of 12-15 units per semester, with opportunities for research release time. Administrative jobs focus on student services and operations.
Lecturer jobs suit those with master's degrees and practical expertise, while professor jobs require PhDs and publication records. CSUB also posts adjunct professor jobs for flexible teaching. For a full overview, visit our university job types page.
For faculty positions at California State University, Bakersfield, a PhD, EdD, or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant field is typically required for tenure-track roles. Master's degrees suffice for lecturers, often with 18 graduate semester units in the discipline. Administrative positions may require advanced degrees plus experience, such as an MBA for business roles or MEd for education administration.
Credentialed professionals are needed in nursing (MSN or DNP) and education. CSUB aligns with CSU minimum qualifications, ensuring consistency across the system.
CSUB prioritizes applied research benefiting the region, with expertise in water resources, energy sustainability, Latino health disparities, and educational equity. Faculty in sciences might focus on environmental studies tied to the San Joaquin Valley, while social sciences emphasize border studies and public administration. Grant-funded projects through NSF or NIH are common.
Candidates with interdisciplinary expertise, such as data science in education, stand out. Learn more about research jobs and how to thrive in roles like postdoctoral success.
Preferred experience for CSUB jobs includes peer-reviewed publications, grant acquisition, and demonstrated teaching success, particularly with diverse students. Skills like curriculum development, online teaching proficiency (using Canvas), and data analysis are valued. Competencies in cultural humility, collaboration, and service to underrepresented communities are essential.
Administrative roles seek leadership in accreditation processes (e.g., WSCUC) and budget management. Soft skills such as communication and adaptability enhance candidacy. Review how to write a winning academic CV for tips.
The application process for jobs at California State University, Bakersfield begins with searching openings on the CSU recruitment portal or CSUB's careers page. Submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, statement of teaching philosophy, diversity statement, and three references. Interviews often include teaching demonstrations and committee meetings.
Tips: Customize your diversity statement to CSUB's HSI status. Highlight regional ties to Kern County. Use our free resume template and free cover letter template. Apply early, as postings close upon filling. Follow up professionally.
CSUB champions diversity as a designated HSI and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI). Initiatives include the Office of Institutional Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, offering bias training and recruitment pipelines for underrepresented faculty. The Faculty Mentoring Program pairs new hires with mentors, and the Inclusive Action Plan addresses equity gaps.
Examples: Annual Diversity Summit, Latinx Faculty Network, and scholarships for diverse students. These efforts create inclusive workplaces, making CSUB appealing for diverse professionals.
CSUB fosters work-life balance with a 4/10 schedule option for staff, generous vacation (22 days/year), and family leave. Employee wellness includes gym access, counseling, and EAP. Campus life features events like Roadrunner Days, cultural celebrations, and proximity to Sequoia National Forest for hiking.
Bakersfield offers affordable living, family-friendly amenities, and a growing arts scene. Faculty enjoy sabbaticals every 6 years and research support. The supportive community aids retention, with low turnover rates.
Jobs at California State University, Bakersfield offer meaningful opportunities in a vibrant, student-focused environment. From faculty to admin roles, align your expertise with CSUB's regional mission. Explore more higher ed jobs, career advice via higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post your opening at post a job.
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