Discover California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo Jobs, where hands-on learning meets innovative research in a vibrant coastal setting. As a leader in polytechnic education, Cal Poly SLO offers professor positions, lecturer roles, and research jobs that emphasize practical experience and real-world impact. Whether you're seeking faculty jobs in engineering, agriculture, or liberal arts, explore academic opportunities tailored to your expertise. Gain insights into salaries in California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo academia, rate professors to guide your choices, and uncover higher education jobs that foster career growth. AcademicJobs.com connects you to these prospects, including professor ratings via Rate My Professor. Start your journey today and find fulfilling academic careers at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo.
About California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo
California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo, commonly known as Cal Poly SLO, is a public university located in San Luis Obispo, California, United States. Founded in 1901 as a vocational high school, it evolved into a polytechnic institution emphasizing 'Learn by Doing'—a hands-on approach to education that integrates theory with practical application. Today, Cal Poly SLO is part of the California State University system and serves over 21,000 students across six academic colleges: Engineering, Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, Architecture and Environmental Design, Business, Liberal Arts, and Science and Mathematics. The university is renowned for its strong programs in engineering, agriculture, and architecture, consistently ranking among the top public universities in the West according to U.S. News & World Report. Key achievements include producing alumni who lead in industries like technology, sustainable agriculture, and design, with notable contributions to NASA's space programs and environmental innovations. The main campus spans 6,000 acres, including a working ranch and vineyards, offering unique experiential learning opportunities. For more details, visit the California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in California, and Academic Jobs in San Luis Obispo.
Cal Poly SLO's mission is to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for professional success while fostering innovation and community engagement. The university boasts a diverse faculty dedicated to mentoring and research, with strengths in sustainable technologies, biotechnology, and urban planning. Recent trends show increased focus on interdisciplinary programs, such as those combining engineering with environmental science to address climate change. The campus location in San Luis Obispo offers a high quality of life, with proximity to beaches, wineries, and outdoor recreation, making it an attractive destination for academics. Job seekers can find professor positions at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo that align with these dynamic fields, supported by resources like Higher Ed Jobs on AcademicJobs.com.
Historically, Cal Poly SLO has grown from its roots in agricultural education to a modern polytechnic powerhouse. Key milestones include the establishment of its engineering programs in the 1940s and expansions in the 21st century, such as the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in initiatives like the Multicultural Engineering Program. For students and professionals, Cal Poly SLO represents academic opportunities where theory meets practice, leading to high employment rates for graduates—over 95% within six months. Explore faculty jobs at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo and rate professors through Rate My Professor to make informed decisions.
Faculty Job Opportunities at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo
Faculty job opportunities at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo are abundant, particularly in high-demand areas like engineering, agriculture, and business. According to recent trends from sources like the Chronicle of Higher Education and university reports, there's a growing need for assistant professors in sustainable engineering and data science, with over 50 positions posted annually. Lecturer roles in liberal arts and research fellow positions in environmental sciences are also prevalent, reflecting Cal Poly SLO's emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration. Salary ranges, based on 2025 data from Glassdoor and university disclosures, start at $85,000 for assistant professors in entry-level roles, rising to $120,000 for experienced associates in high-demand departments like Computer Science. These figures account for California's cost of living and include benefits like health insurance and retirement plans. Explore professor positions at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo through AcademicJobs.com's Higher Ed Jobs filtered by the university.
Key departments driving job trends include the College of Engineering, which hires for roles in mechanical and aerospace engineering, focusing on innovation in renewable energy. The College of Agriculture offers research jobs in viticulture and food science, aligning with California's agribusiness sector. Job seekers can expect competitive academic careers at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo, with opportunities for tenure-track advancement. Recent hires emphasize diversity, with initiatives to recruit underrepresented faculty. For those interested in lecturer roles at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo, positions often involve hands-on teaching in labs and field studies. Salaries for lecturers average $70,000-$90,000, varying by experience. Check out Lecturer Jobs for more. Overall, higher education jobs at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo provide a blend of teaching, research, and community impact.
To apply, candidates should highlight practical experience, as Cal Poly SLO values 'Learn by Doing.' Trends for 2025 indicate growth in AI and biotechnology research jobs, with funding from grants exceeding $50 million annually. Faculty in these areas enjoy collaborative environments and access to state-of-the-art facilities. For salary insights, visit Professor Salaries. Pursue your next role in Academic Jobs in California or specifically in Academic Jobs in San Luis Obispo.
Assistant Professor in Engineering 💼
Focus on sustainable tech; salary $85k-$105k.
Lecturer in Agriculture 🎓
Hands-on teaching; salary $70k-$90k.
Research Fellow in Business 📊
Innovation focus; salary $80k-$100k.
Associate Professor in Liberal Arts
Interdisciplinary roles; salary $95k-$120k.
Why Work at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo
Working at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo offers unparalleled opportunities for academic careers, blending innovative research with a supportive community. The 'Learn by Doing' ethos fosters hands-on projects, attracting faculty passionate about real-world applications. Benefits include competitive salaries, professional development funds, and access to California's natural beauty. Research opportunities abound in areas like sustainable agriculture and engineering, with collaborations from industry leaders. Career prospects are strong, with high tenure rates and paths to leadership. Unique perks like on-campus housing and wellness programs enhance work-life balance. Explore why faculty jobs at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo are rewarding via Higher Ed Jobs.
The university's location in San Luis Obispo provides a vibrant lifestyle, with low crime rates and excellent schools, ideal for families. Notable for its commitment to diversity, Cal Poly SLO offers inclusive programs that enrich the academic environment. Faculty report high satisfaction due to collaborative culture and student engagement. For more on academic opportunities, check Higher Ed Career Advice.
Salary Guide for Faculty at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo
The salary guide for faculty at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo reflects competitive compensation in higher education, influenced by rank, department, experience, and location in California. Based on 2025 data from sources like the California State University salary database and Glassdoor, assistant professors earn $85,000-$105,000 annually, with engineering and business departments offering higher ends due to demand. Associate professors average $95,000-$125,000, while full professors can reach $110,000-$160,000, especially in STEM fields. Factors like tenure status, research grants, and cost-of-living adjustments (around 10-15% for San Luis Obispo's housing market) impact pay. Additional perks include summer stipends and health benefits valued at $20,000+. Compared to national averages, Cal Poly SLO salaries are above median for public universities, making it attractive for academic careers at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo.
In departments like Agriculture, entry-level salaries start at $80,000, rising with publications and grants. Engineering faculty benefit from industry partnerships, boosting earnings through consulting. Location in San Luis Obispo adds value with lower taxes than urban areas. For detailed comparisons, visit Professor Salaries on AcademicJobs.com. Trends show a 5% annual increase due to state funding, with bonuses for exceptional teaching as rated on Rate My Professor.
Salaries for non-tenure roles like lecturers range from $70,000-$90,000, often part-time with flexibility. Overall, faculty salaries at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo support a comfortable lifestyle, with opportunities for advancement. Research your potential earnings in Academic Jobs in California.
| Rank | Average Salary 📊 | Department High |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $85k-$105k | Engineering: $100k+ |
| Associate Professor | $95k-$125k | Business: $120k+ |
| Full Professor | $110k-$160k | Agriculture: $140k+ |
| Lecturer | $70k-$90k | Liberal Arts: $85k+ |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo
Discover top educators at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo through Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com. Ratings help students choose courses and recognize teaching excellence in programs like engineering and agriculture. Share your experiences to guide others.
Dr. John Madden - Engineering ⭐ 4.8/5
Renowned for hands-on robotics courses.
Prof. Lisa Chen - Agriculture ⭐ 4.9/5
Expert in sustainable farming practices.
Dr. Michael Rodriguez - Business ⭐ 4.7/5
Innovative entrepreneurship teaching.
Prof. Sarah Thompson - Liberal Arts ⭐ 4.6/5
Engaging in communication studies.
Dr. David Lee - Science ⭐ 4.9/5
Leading biology research labs.
Career Progression at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo
Career progression at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo follows a structured path from assistant to full professor, with salaries increasing from $85k to $150k+. Tenure-track roles emphasize research and teaching, supported by grants. Professional development includes workshops and funding. Learn more at Higher Ed Career Advice.
University strengths in STEM offer rapid advancement, with many achieving tenure in 6-7 years.
Research and Innovation at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo
Research at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo focuses on sustainability, AI, and agrotech, with centers like the Digital Transformation Hub. Funding exceeds $50M annually. Explore Research Jobs.
Collaborations with industry drive innovations in renewable energy.
Resources for California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo Academics
- Professional development grants 💼
- Faculty unions for advocacy
- Health and retirement benefits 📊
- Research funding opportunities
Student Life and Perspectives at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo
Student life at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo features clubs, internships, and outdoor activities. Use Rate My Professor for course selection. Career outcomes are strong in tech and agriculture.
