Columbia Basin College (CBC), located in Pasco, Washington, is a public community college founded in 1955. Serving the Tri-Cities area including Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland, it enrolls over 10,000 students annually and plays a vital role in regional education and workforce development. Known for its associate degrees, bachelor's programs in applied sciences, and vocational certificates, CBC emphasizes practical training in fields like nursing, viticulture and enology, diesel technology, and nuclear operations influenced by the nearby Hanford Site. For professionals seeking jobs at Columbia Basin College, the institution offers stable careers in teaching, administration, and support services within a supportive, student-centered environment.
Established as an extension of Yakima Valley College, CBC gained independence in 1967 and has grown into a key educational hub. Over the decades, it expanded from basic transfer courses to specialized programs addressing local industry needs, such as agriculture in the Columbia Basin and energy sector jobs tied to Hanford. Milestones include becoming a Hispanic-Serving Institution in recent years and launching bachelor's degrees in 2015, reflecting its adaptation to community demands. This evolution creates diverse job opportunities at Columbia Basin College, from foundational instructors to program directors shaping future curricula.
CBC's divisions include Arts and Humanities, Business and Computer Science, Science, Health Professions, and Trades and Technology. High-demand areas for jobs at Columbia Basin College are Health Sciences (nursing, medical assisting), Industrial Technology (welding, automotive), and Agriculture (viticulture). Faculty positions often require expertise in these fields to deliver hands-on training. Explore community college jobs for similar roles across institutions.
Jobs at Columbia Basin College span faculty, staff, and leadership. Full-time instructors teach core courses, adjuncts provide flexible part-time support, administrators manage departments, and classified staff handle operations like maintenance and library services. Common openings include math tutors, lab technicians, and counselors. For a full breakdown, visit university job types. Executive roles like deans oversee strategic initiatives, while higher ed admin jobs support daily functions.
For teaching positions at Columbia Basin College, minimum qualifications follow Washington state community college standards: a master's degree for transfer-level courses or a bachelor's plus professional experience for vocational roles. Nursing faculty need RN licensure and a BSN or MSN. Research focus is applied rather than theoretical, emphasizing grants for projects in renewable energy or viticulture. Preferred experience includes 3-5 years teaching or industry work, publications in trade journals, and grant funding success. Key skills encompass curriculum development, student engagement, cultural competency, and technology integration like Canvas LMS. Competencies include adaptability to diverse learners and collaboration with industry partners. Check how to write a winning academic CV for application success.
To apply, visit the CBC careers page linked from the main site, create a NEOGOV account, and submit required documents: cover letter addressing job criteria, resume, unofficial transcripts, and three references. The process involves screening, interviews (often with teaching demo), and background checks. Tips: Customize your application to CBC's mission of equity and access; quantify achievements (e.g., 'Developed curriculum adopted by 200 students'); network via LinkedIn or local events; prepare for questions on diversity. Apply early as postings close quickly. Use our free resume template and free cover letter template to stand out.
CBC actively promotes diversity as an HSI since 2019, with 40% Hispanic students. Initiatives include the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Council, training on implicit bias, and recruitment targeting underrepresented groups. Programs like Running Start for high schoolers and Basic Skills for adults ensure inclusive access. Hiring emphasizes diverse candidates, with partnerships like the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Employees contribute to a welcoming culture through events like Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations.
CBC fosters balance with a 175-day faculty contract, flexible hours for staff, and generous leave policies (up to 22 vacation days). Wellness perks include free gym access, EAP counseling, and childcare assistance. Campus life in Pasco features a vibrant quad, art gallery, theater, and proximity to Badger Mountain for hiking. The family-like atmosphere, low cost of living, and community events like Hawk Fest enhance satisfaction. Remote options exist for some admin roles; see remote higher ed jobs.
Monitor CBC's job board for openings in growing areas like healthcare and tech. With Washington's strong economy, positions fill fast. Tailor applications and leverage higher ed career advice resources.
Jobs at Columbia Basin College offer meaningful impact in education and community development. From faculty roles to support staff, opportunities abound in Pasco's dynamic setting. Explore more at higher ed jobs, get advice from higher ed career advice, search university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. Connect with CBC's mission today.
