Salaries at CalPoly

At California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly SLO), salary expectations for faculty and staff are typically determined by factors such as role, academic rank, years of experience, and field of expertise. Salaries often vary significantly between disciplines, with STEM fields generally commanding higher pay due to market demand. As a public institution within the California State University system, Cal Poly SLO adheres to structured pay scales that are often transparent and accessible through public records or collective bargaining agreements with unions like the California Faculty Association. While exact figures may not always be published for individual positions, general salary bands for different roles are often available through state databases or university reports.

• Assistant Professor: Typical salary range is $65,000–$85,000 USD per year, depending on the department and prior experience. Entry-level roles may start lower but increase with tenure track progression.
• Associate Professor: Average salary range is $85,000–$105,000 USD annually, often reflecting seniority and research contributions. Additional funding may be available through grants.
• Full Professor: Salaries typically range from $105,000–$130,000+ USD per year, with higher earnings for those with significant research output or administrative duties.
• Academic Advisor: Salaries generally fall between $45,000–$60,000 USD per year, influenced by experience and workload.
• Administrative Manager: Typical range is $60,000–$80,000 USD annually, with potential bonuses or adjustments based on department size and responsibilities.

Salaries at Cal Poly SLO are generally competitive within the California State University system, though they may lag behind private institutions or universities in higher-cost regions. As a public sector employer, compensation is often benchmarked against state guidelines, with periodic adjustments based on budget allocations and union negotiations. Faculty and staff can expect gradual salary progression through promotions, tenure, and cost-of-living adjustments, though significant jumps may depend on external funding or administrative roles. For the most accurate and up-to-date figures, individuals are encouraged to consult official university or state resources.