The College of Idaho, often abbreviated as C of I, stands as Idaho's oldest four-year institution of higher learning, founded in 1891 in the vibrant city of Caldwell, Idaho. Nestled in the United States' scenic Northwest, this private liberal arts college enrolls around 1,100 students and emphasizes personalized education through small class sizes and close faculty-student interactions. Jobs at College of Idaho attract educators and professionals passionate about undergraduate teaching, mentorship, and interdisciplinary scholarship. Whether you're eyeing tenure-track faculty positions, administrative roles, or support staff opportunities, C of I offers a supportive environment where contributions directly impact a tight-knit academic community.
Careers here span departments like biology, business, theatre arts, and education, reflecting the college's 26 majors and 28 minors. The institution's commitment to the liberal arts model means faculty jobs often blend teaching, research, and service, with an average student-faculty ratio of 11:1 ensuring meaningful engagement. In recent years, C of I has expanded initiatives in sustainability and health sciences, creating demand for specialized expertise.
Established by Presbyterian pioneers, the College of Idaho began as a response to the need for higher education in the Idaho Territory. It achieved accreditation in 1923 and navigated challenges like the Great Depression and World War II by maintaining its focus on character-building education. Today, under President Jennifer L. Everett since 2022, C of I continues its legacy as a residential college fostering critical thinking and ethical leadership. This history informs its hiring practices, prioritizing candidates who align with values of intellectual curiosity and community service.
Understanding this background helps job seekers at College of Idaho tailor applications to highlight how their experience supports the college's mission of holistic student development.
C of I's curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, with standout programs in performing arts—home to the renowned C of I Theatre—and natural sciences. Faculty jobs frequently arise in growing areas like exercise science and environmental studies, where interdisciplinary approaches thrive. Administrative positions support innovations such as the Langroise Trio honors program, requiring skills in program coordination and student advising.
For those interested in university job types, C of I exemplifies roles like visiting professors and department chairs, often posted on platforms like higher ed jobs boards.
Jobs at College of Idaho demand rigorous credentials tailored to a teaching-centric environment. For faculty positions, a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in the relevant field is standard, such as a PhD in chemistry for science roles or an MFA (Master of Fine Arts) for theatre faculty. Research focus often aligns with undergraduate mentorship; expertise in pedagogy or grant-funded projects is prized.
Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and prior teaching at small colleges. For instance, candidates for business faculty roles benefit from accreditation knowledge like AACSB standards. Skills and competencies encompass strong communication, curriculum development, and collaboration—essential for C of I's team-taught courses. Administrative jobs may require a master's in higher education administration plus experience in enrollment management or DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programming.
| Role Type | Key Qualifications | Preferred Skills |
|---|---|---|
| Faculty | PhD, teaching experience | Research grants, student mentoring |
| Research Assistant | Bachelor's/Master's | Data analysis, lab techniques |
| Admin | Master's, 3+ years | Leadership, budgeting |
The application process at College of Idaho begins with monitoring their careers page and sites like higher ed jobs faculty. Submit a cover letter, CV, teaching philosophy statement, and three references. Interviews often include teaching demonstrations.
Pro tip: Reference how to write a winning academic CV for standout applications. The process typically spans 2-4 months.
College of Idaho actively pursues diversity through the PEAK (Pathways to Excellence, Academics, and Knowledge) curriculum, incorporating global perspectives. Initiatives include the Multicultural Affairs office, supporting affinity groups for LGBTQ+ faculty and students of color. Recent hires emphasize underrepresented voices in STEM and humanities. The college partners with organizations like the Idaho Commission on Hispanic Affairs, offering recruitment pipelines for diverse candidates. These efforts create an inclusive workplace where varied backgrounds enrich teaching and campus dialogue.
In Caldwell, Idaho—30 minutes from Boise—employees at C of I enjoy a low-cost, family-friendly setting with outdoor pursuits like hiking in the Owyhee Mountains. Work-life balance shines through flexible schedules, generous PTO, and family leave policies. Campus life buzzes with theatre productions, athletic events (Coyotes compete in NAIA), and faculty-staff mixers. Professional development includes conference funding and sabbaticals. The historic campus, with modern facilities like the Hendel Center, fosters community amid a supportive culture prioritizing wellness.
With its legacy and forward-thinking programs, C of I offers rewarding careers shaping future leaders. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job to connect. For lecturer paths, see become a university lecturer. Research roles align with research assistant jobs. Join the C of I community today.
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