California State University, Sacramento (CSUS), affectionately known as Sac State, stands as a cornerstone of higher education in Northern California. Nestled along the American River in Sacramento, the state capital, CSUS serves over 31,000 students through its 60 baccalaureate and 47 master's degree programs. Established in 1947 as Sacramento State College, it evolved into a comprehensive university within the California State University system, one of the largest public university systems in the U.S. The institution emphasizes access to education, particularly for first-generation and diverse students, making it a hub for inclusive academic careers.
Jobs at California State University, Sacramento span faculty, administrative, and support roles, contributing to its mission of student success and regional impact. Faculty positions often focus on teaching, with a 3/3 course load typical for lecturers, while tenure-track roles balance teaching, research, and service. The university's location in Sacramento offers proximity to state government, tech firms, and cultural landmarks, enhancing professional networks for employees.
CSUS traces its roots to 1947 when it opened as a teacher-training institution amid post-World War II demand for educators. By 1972, it gained university status, expanding into liberal arts, sciences, business, and health professions. Today, it boasts strengths in criminal justice, public administration, and education, reflecting Sacramento's governmental focus.
The employment history at CSUS mirrors California's public sector evolution. Faculty organized under the California Faculty Association (CFA) in 1982, securing collective bargaining rights. This union advocacy has shaped competitive salaries, benefits, and workload policies. Staff positions fall under state civil service, ensuring stability through CalHR oversight. Over decades, CSUS has navigated budget cycles, including recent enrollment growth post-2020, creating steady demand for higher ed jobs.
California State University, Sacramento employs thousands across diverse categories. Tenure-track professors lead departments, while lecturers fill teaching needs. Administrative roles in student affairs, advancement, and HR support operations. Research positions, though less emphasized than at research-intensive universities, exist in centers like the Center for California Studies.
For a full breakdown, explore university job types available across institutions like CSUS.
To understand jobs at California State University, Sacramento fully, here are key terms defined:
Jobs at California State University, Sacramento demand specific credentials tailored to roles.
Required Academic Qualifications: Faculty positions require a PhD or EdD in the relevant field (e.g., PhD in Biology for sciences). Master's suffices for lecturers or admin roles like academic advisors.
Research Focus or Expertise Needed: Emphasis on applied research aligning with California's needs—e.g., water resources in Environmental Studies or gerontology in Health Sciences. CSUS prioritizes grants from agencies like the National Science Foundation (NSF).
Preferred Experience: Publications in peer-reviewed journals (3-5 for assistant professors), grant funding history, and 2+ years teaching diverse students. Community engagement counts toward service.
Skills and Competencies:
CSUS values equity-mindedness, with training via the Equity Institute.
Applying for jobs at California State University, Sacramento involves these steps:
Actionable Tips: Customize your CV per how to write a winning academic CV. Highlight California teaching experience. Network at CFA events or conferences. Practice inclusive teaching examples. Deadlines are strict—apply early.
CSUS champions diversity through the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI). Key efforts include:
Student demographics (45% Latinx, 7% Black) inform hiring, ensuring faculty reflect the community.
CSUS fosters balance with a commuter-friendly campus. Employees access the Rec Center, counseling, and 24/7 library. Proximity to downtown Sacramento offers dining, events, and farms-to-fork culture. Family programs include dependent tuition waivers and parental leave via CFA contract (up to 12 weeks paid).
Campus life buzzes with Hornet athletics (Division I), cultural festivals, and River Walk trails. Professional development via Faculty Development Institute includes sabbaticals every 6 years. Salaries competitive: $90K average for assistant profs, with low cost-of-living advantage.
Jobs at California State University, Sacramento offer rewarding paths in a dynamic, student-centered environment. From faculty inspiring future leaders to staff driving operations, opportunities abound. Leverage higher ed career advice, explore university jobs, and check higher ed jobs listings. Institutions like CSUS prioritize impact—start your journey today. For recruitment insights, visit recruitment or post openings via post a job.
