Colorado Northwestern Community College (CNCC), located in the picturesque town of Rangely, Colorado, serves as a vital educational hub for northwest Colorado. Established in 1962, CNCC has grown into a respected institution within the Colorado Community College System, offering associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training tailored to the region's unique needs. Jobs at Colorado Northwestern Community College span teaching, administration, student services, and technical support, attracting professionals passionate about community education in a rural setting.
The college operates campuses in Rangely and Craig, emphasizing practical programs like energy technology, equine science, nursing, and agriculture. These align with local industries such as oil and gas extraction, ranching, and healthcare, creating steady demand for qualified faculty and staff. Whether you're seeking faculty positions to shape future technicians or administrative roles to support student success, CNCC provides meaningful careers with a focus on student-centered teaching.
With small class sizes—often under 20 students—instructors enjoy direct impact on learners from diverse backgrounds, including first-generation college students and working adults. The institution's commitment to affordability and accessibility makes it an ideal place for educators dedicated to open-access higher education.
Founded to meet the educational demands of Rio Blanco County's remote communities, CNCC began as a extension of the University of Colorado. By 1965, it became independently accredited, expanding to serve students across a vast, rugged landscape. Today, it enrolls over 1,500 students annually, many pursuing transfer degrees or vocational certificates.
The mission—preparing students for success in college, career, and life—shapes all jobs at Colorado Northwestern Community College. Faculty and staff contribute to this by delivering hands-on training, such as welding certifications that lead directly to jobs in local energy firms, or nursing programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This practical focus distinguishes CNCC from larger universities, prioritizing real-world skills over theoretical research.
Historical milestones, like the 2010 launch of the Energy Technology Center, highlight ongoing adaptation to economic shifts, ensuring job stability in fluctuating industries.
Employment at CNCC includes diverse roles suited to its community college model. Full-time faculty teach core programs, while adjunct professors offer flexibility for those balancing multiple commitments. Administrative positions cover enrollment services, financial aid, and HR, and technical staff support labs in equine training or simulation welding bays.
For a deeper dive into university job types, explore common categories across higher ed. CNCC postings often emphasize experience in rural education and industry partnerships. Current openings can be found through the college's HR site or platforms like higher ed jobs on AcademicJobs.com.
To ensure clarity on jobs at Colorado Northwestern Community College, here are key terms:
Jobs at Colorado Northwestern Community College prioritize teaching excellence over research output, reflecting its two-year focus.
Required Academic Qualifications: Most faculty roles demand a master's degree in the discipline or related field (e.g., M.S. in Nursing for nursing instructors). Doctoral degrees are preferred for transfer-oriented programs like biology but not always mandatory. Administrative jobs often require a bachelor's plus relevant certifications.
Research Focus or Expertise Needed: Applied projects rather than pure research; for example, expertise in hydraulic fracturing simulation for energy tech or equine health management.
Preferred Experience: 3-5 years in industry or K-12 teaching, publications in trade journals, or grant writing for program funding. CNCC values prior community college experience.
Skills and Competencies:
Explore community college jobs for similar requirements across institutions.
Applying for jobs at Colorado Northwestern Community College involves a straightforward, candidate-focused process.
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CNCC actively fosters an inclusive environment through targeted efforts. The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Council develops policies promoting equal access. Partnerships with the Ute Indian Tribe include cultural competency training and Native American student support services.
Specific examples: TRiO programs aid first-generation and low-income students; annual Diversity Week features speakers on LGBTQ+ issues and Hispanic heritage; hiring practices ensure diverse candidate pools via targeted recruitment. In 2023, CNCC increased underrepresented faculty by 15% through mentorship programs. These initiatives create a welcoming workplace valuing varied perspectives.
Rangely's small-town charm (population ~2,300) enhances work-life balance at CNCC. Employees enjoy four-day weeks in summer, generous PTO, and tuition waivers for dependents. Wellness perks include gym access and EAP counseling.
Campus life revolves around community: Join the rodeo team as a coach, hike Rabbit Mountain, or fish the Green River. Craig campus offers urban proximity to Steamboat Springs skiing. Low housing costs (~$1,200/month rent) and proximity to Dinosaur National Monument make it family-friendly. Staff events like barbecues build camaraderie in this tight-knit culture.
Challenges like isolation are offset by strong support networks and remote work options for some roles.
CNCC offers stability in Colorado's community college system, with competitive benefits like Colorado PERA retirement. Proximity to energy jobs ensures program relevance, and small-scale operations allow quick impact. For career advice, visit higher ed career advice, browse university jobs, or post your profile on higher ed jobs. Employers can recruitment talent via AcademicJobs.com or post a job.
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