Calvin University, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, stands as a premier Christian liberal arts institution offering a variety of rewarding jobs in higher education. Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, this university attracts academic professionals seeking to blend rigorous scholarship with faith-based teaching. With around 3,500 students, Calvin provides opportunities in faculty, administrative, and support roles across disciplines like engineering, nursing, business, education, and the sciences. Jobs at Calvin University emphasize community, innovation, and a commitment to the Reformed Christian tradition, making it ideal for those passionate about integrating faith into academia.
The university's career landscape includes tenure-track positions, adjunct teaching, research-focused roles, and administrative jobs. Whether you're eyeing faculty jobs or support in student services, Calvin's environment fosters professional growth amid a vibrant campus life. Grand Rapids offers an affordable, family-friendly setting with cultural amenities, enhancing the appeal for long-term careers.
Founded in 1876 by the Christian Reformed Church as Calvin College, it evolved into Calvin University in 2019 to reflect expanded graduate programs. This history underscores a dedication to holistic education, where every role contributes to forming students intellectually and spiritually. The mission—'to engage students in transformative education for faithful Christian living'—permeates job responsibilities, requiring employees to weave faith into daily work.
Over 140 years, Calvin has grown from a seminary to a comprehensive university, earning accolades like Gold rating in STARS for sustainability and top rankings in engineering. This legacy influences jobs at Calvin University, prioritizing candidates who align with its covenantal community and pursuit of shalom (peace and flourishing).
Calvin University posts diverse openings, from full-time faculty in departments like biology, computer science, and theology to staff roles in admissions and facilities. Common positions include assistant professors, department chairs, lab coordinators, and diversity officers. For a deeper dive into university job types, explore common academic roles.
Engineering jobs highlight Calvin's nationally ranked program, while education roles support teacher preparation. Research jobs often involve collaborative projects with undergrads, differing from research-intensive universities by emphasizing mentorship over high-volume publications.
Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to potential permanent employment after a probationary period, typically 6-7 years, involving research, teaching, and service.
Faith statement: A personal document outlining one's Christian beliefs and how they inform professional practice, mandatory for most jobs at Calvin University.
Reformed tradition: A Protestant theological framework emphasizing God's sovereignty, scripture's authority, and covenant community, central to Calvin's identity.
Shalom: Biblical concept of comprehensive peace, justice, and wholeness that guides Calvin's vision for education and employment.
Academic qualifications for faculty jobs at Calvin University generally require a PhD or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant field, such as a Doctor of Engineering for engineering roles or PhD in Education for pedagogy positions. Research focus varies by department: engineering emphasizes sustainable design and innovation, sciences prioritize undergraduate mentored research, and humanities integrate theological perspectives.
Preferred experience includes 2-5 years of teaching, peer-reviewed publications (3-10 for tenure-track), and grant funding from sources like NSF or private foundations. Skills and competencies encompass excellent communication, curriculum development, student mentoring, and proficiency in tools like MATLAB for STEM or learning management systems like Canvas.
Administrative jobs may require a master's and 5+ years in higher ed, with competencies in leadership and budgeting.
The application process begins on Calvin's careers portal at calvin.edu/go/careers. Submit a tailored CV, cover letter, faith statement (1-2 pages), teaching statement, research agenda, and 3-5 references. Interviews include campus visits with teaching demos and meetings with faith leaders.
Actionable tips:
Timeline: Postings open year-round, with fall for next academic year. Expect 4-6 months from application to offer.
Calvin University actively advances diversity through the Center for Diversity & Inclusion, offering workshops, affinity groups, and recruitment for underrepresented faculty. Specific examples include the Lindsley Scholars program for students of color, extending to faculty mentorship; partnerships with HBCUs; and a 20% increase in diverse hires since 2015. The university's DEI statement mandates inclusive hiring, with training on implicit bias. In 2023, 35% of new faculty identified as people of color, surpassing regional averages.
Calvin prioritizes work-life balance with policies like parental leave (12 weeks paid), sabbaticals every 6 years, and flexible work for staff. Wellness includes gym access, counseling, and faith-based respite programs. Average teaching load is 24 credits/year, allowing research time.
Campus life thrives with 100+ clubs, chapel services, athletic events, and family-friendly events. Grand Rapids provides breweries, museums, and lakes, with affordable housing (median home $250K). Employees enjoy tuition remission (up to 100% for dependents), retirement matching, and community potlucks fostering belonging.
Jobs at Calvin University offer purpose-driven careers in a supportive, innovative environment. With strong higher ed jobs resources, explore higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job via AcademicJobs.com. Grand Rapids' location enhances quality of life, blending urban vibrancy with Midwestern charm.
Recent hires praise the collaborative culture and student impact. For lecturer insights, see become a university lecturer. Calvin's focus on excellence positions it as a top choice for meaningful academic work.
