Cuesta College, located in San Luis Obispo, California, is a public community college founded in 1963 as part of the California Community Colleges system. Serving San Luis Obispo County, it operates two main campuses: the San Luis Obispo Campus and the North County Campus in Paso Robles. With approximately 11,000 students, Cuesta College emphasizes affordable education, transfer programs to four-year universities like California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly SLO), and career technical education (CTE) in fields such as nursing, viticulture, and welding. Jobs at Cuesta College attract educators and professionals passionate about community-focused higher education.
The college's employment opportunities span faculty, staff, and administrative roles, reflecting its commitment to student success and regional workforce development. As a community college, positions here prioritize teaching excellence over extensive research, making it ideal for those seeking hands-on roles in community college jobs. The scenic Central Coast location offers a desirable work environment near beaches and wine country.
Cuesta College opened its doors in 1964 with a focus on serving local high school graduates and adults seeking vocational training. Over the decades, it has grown into a key educational hub, earning accolades for student transfer rates and program quality. Employment at the college has evolved with California's Master Plan for Higher Education, emphasizing open access and equity. Today, jobs at Cuesta College include union-represented faculty through the Cuesta College Faculty Association and classified staff via local bargaining units, ensuring competitive wages and protections.
Key milestones include expansions in CTE programs during the 1980s and recent investments in online learning post-COVID. The college's HR department actively recruits for positions supporting its vision of 'Excellence in Education,' drawing candidates from across the United States.
Cuesta College offers diverse roles tailored to its two-year mission. Full-time tenure-track faculty positions in disciplines like English, mathematics, biology, and business administration require teaching multiple sections and student advising. Adjunct instructors fill part-time needs, often leading to full-time opportunities. Administrative jobs include deans, directors, and coordinators in student services, facilities, and IT. Classified staff roles cover counseling aides, custodians, and financial aid specialists. For a full list of university job types, explore available categories.
Current openings often appear on their careers page, with emphasis on CTE fields aligned with local industries like agriculture and hospitality.
To secure jobs at Cuesta College, candidates must meet minimum qualifications set by the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office. For academic subjects, a master's degree in the discipline or a bachelor's plus professional experience is standard. Vocational roles may accept a bachelor's with industry expertise, such as five years in nursing for a nursing instructor position.
Research focus is secondary but valued; publications or grants in pedagogy strengthen applications for tenure-track roles. Preferred experience includes community college teaching, curriculum development, and student equity work. Skills and competencies emphasize cultural proficiency, online teaching tools like Canvas, and data-driven assessment.
Community College: A two-year public institution offering associate degrees, certificates, and transfer courses, like Cuesta College. Tenure-Track: A faculty position leading to permanent employment after probation, with academic freedom. CTE (Career Technical Education): Programs preparing students for immediate workforce entry, such as Cuesta's welding certificate. Adjunct Faculty: Part-time instructors hired per course, common in higher ed.
The application process begins with monitoring the Cuesta College Human Resources website for postings. Submit via NeoGov or their portal: cover letter, resume, transcripts, diversity statement, and references. Screening committees review for minimum qualifications, followed by interviews and teaching demonstrations.
Actionable tips:
Use resources like free resume template and free cover letter template from AcademicJobs.com.
Cuesta College prioritizes diversity through its Equal Employment Opportunity Plan, targeting underrepresented groups in hiring. The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee oversees training, hires affinity group advisors, and supports Latinx and LGBTQ+ resources. Examples include the Hispanic-Serving Institution designation and partnerships with local tribes for Native American student success, extending to staff recruitment.
Initiatives include bias training, mentorship programs, and tracking hiring demographics. Check employer branding secrets for attracting diverse talent.
Cuesta College fosters work-life balance with 22 vacation days, 13 holidays, and sabbaticals for faculty. California state benefits include comprehensive health coverage and CalSTRS/CalPERS retirement. Flexible schedules accommodate SLO's lifestyle, with wellness centers and employee assistance programs.
Campus life thrives on the scenic SLO Campus with views of rolling hills and ocean proximity. Events like cultural fairs, athletics, and wine tastings enhance community. North County Campus offers rural charm. Proximity to Cal Poly and Hearst Castle makes it vibrant for professionals.
Jobs at Cuesta College offer rewarding opportunities in a supportive environment. From faculty to staff roles, the college values qualified, diverse candidates committed to student success. Explore more at higher ed jobs, get advice from higher ed career advice, browse university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. With its California location, visit San Luis Obispo careers for local insights.
