Cerritos College, located in Norwalk, California, is a vibrant public community college serving over 20,000 students annually since its founding in 1955. As part of the Los Angeles County community college district, it emphasizes accessible education through associate degrees, transfer programs to four-year universities, and career technical education. Jobs at Cerritos College span faculty positions, administrative roles, and support staff, attracting educators passionate about diverse student populations in a suburban Los Angeles setting.
The college's commitment to student success creates stable opportunities in teaching and support services. With a focus on equity, positions often prioritize candidates who enhance inclusivity. Whether you're seeking full-time tenure-track roles or part-time adjunct work, Cerritos offers pathways into higher education. Salaries are competitive within California community colleges, bolstered by strong union representation through the Cerritos College Faculty Federation.
Norwalk's location provides an affordable living option near major urban centers, making it ideal for balancing career and life. Explore community college jobs here for broader context.
Established post-World War II to meet growing educational demands, Cerritos College began as a response to California's expanding population. Initially housed in temporary facilities, it moved to its permanent 92-acre campus in 1965. Over decades, employment has evolved from basic instructional staff to a comprehensive team supporting STEM centers, arts programs, and health occupations.
Key milestones include the 1980s expansion of vocational training and recent investments in facilities like the Technology and Health Building. Today, jobs reflect modern needs: digital literacy instructors, sustainability coordinators, and counselors for transfer programs. The college's growth mirrors California's community college mission, emphasizing open access and workforce preparation.
Jobs at Cerritos College include diverse roles tailored to its two-year structure. Full-time faculty positions cover disciplines like biology, English, nursing, and automotive technology. Adjunct instructors fill part-time teaching needs, often leading to tenure-track opportunities. Administrative jobs encompass deans, directors of student services, and HR specialists, while classified staff handle maintenance, IT, and library operations.
Counseling and extended opportunity programs provide specialized roles supporting underrepresented students. For detailed breakdowns, visit our university job types page. High-demand areas include healthcare allied professions and computer science, driven by regional industry needs.
Academic qualifications for faculty jobs at Cerritos College align with Minimum Qualifications for California Community College Faculty, typically a master's degree in the discipline or bachelor's plus professional experience. Doctoral degrees (PhD) are preferred for transfer-level courses and leadership roles. For vocational fields, equivalent industry experience substitutes.
Research focus varies: teaching faculty engage in pedagogical research or grant-funded projects like those from the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office. Preferred experience includes community college teaching, publications in teaching journals, and grant management. Skills emphasized are student-centered pedagogy, cultural proficiency, and technology integration like Canvas learning management system.
Key Competencies:
Administrative roles require bachelor's minimum, often with higher ed admin certification.
Adjunct Instructor: A part-time faculty member hired per course or semester, without full benefits or tenure rights, common in community colleges for flexibility.
Tenure-Track Faculty: Permanent positions leading to tenure after probationary period, involving evaluation on teaching, service, and professional growth.
Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI): A college where at least 25% of undergraduates are Hispanic, qualifying for federal grants to support Latino students.
Minimum Qualifications (MQs): State-mandated standards set by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors for hiring faculty.
Cerritos College, designated a Hispanic-Serving Institution since 2007, actively promotes diversity through its Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Plan. Initiatives include bias training for hiring committees, the Latinx Advisory Council, and recruitment at HSI conferences. The college hosts Pride Month events, Black History celebrations, and API Heritage activities, fostering an inclusive workplace.
Targeted hiring for underrepresented groups in STEM and leadership, plus mentorship programs like the Faculty Diversity Institute, ensure equitable opportunities. In 2023, over 60% of faculty hires were from diverse backgrounds, reflecting student demographics (70% Latinx).
Work-life balance at Cerritos benefits from the academic calendar: faculty teach fall/spring with summer/winter breaks. Flexible scheduling, remote options post-pandemic, and 24 paid holidays support wellness. The Employee Assistance Program offers counseling, and fitness centers are accessible.
Campus life thrives with events like Falcon Festival, art galleries, and sports. Norwalk's parks and LA proximity enable commuting or cultural outings. Union contracts cap workloads at 15 units/semester, promoting sustainability. Reviews highlight collaborative departments and student success celebrations.
Apply via the college's WebPortal: create account, upload cover letter (tailored to position), CV, unofficial transcripts, and diversity statement. Deadlines are strict; full-time postings close after 2-4 weeks.
Actionable Tips:
Background checks and references are standard. For adjunct pools, apply anytime.
Benefits include CalPERS retirement, medical/dental/vision, and sabbaticals after six years. Professional development funds support conferences like those from the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges. Advancement to department chair or dean roles is common.
Link relevant advice: See employer branding secrets or winning academic CV tips.
Jobs at Cerritos College offer rewarding paths in a student-focused environment. Ready to apply? Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post your opening via recruitment services on AcademicJobs.com. California positions abound in California and nearby Norwalk.
