Davidson College, located in the charming town of Davidson, North Carolina, stands as a premier liberal arts institution offering exceptional opportunities for academic professionals. Nestled near Lake Norman and just 20 minutes from Charlotte, this college attracts top talent seeking meaningful careers in higher education. Jobs at Davidson College span faculty positions, administrative roles, and support staff, all within a close-knit community dedicated to undergraduate excellence. With an enrollment of about 2,000 students, the college emphasizes teaching, mentorship, and interdisciplinary research, making it ideal for those passionate about shaping young minds.
The institution's rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and strong alumni network create a supportive environment for employees. Whether you're eyeing tenure-track faculty jobs at Davidson College or administrative positions, opportunities here blend intellectual rigor with work that matters. Salaries are competitive, with assistant professors averaging $90,000 annually, reflecting the college's commitment to attracting elite educators.
Founded in 1837 by Presbyterian missionaries, Davidson College has evolved into a secular liberal arts powerhouse while retaining its ethical roots. Named after Revolutionary War general William Lee Davidson, the college opened with six students and grew through challenges like the Civil War, when it briefly served as a hospital. Post-war, it expanded its curriculum, admitting women in 1972 and embracing coeducation fully.
Key milestones include the 1923 honor code—still a cornerstone today—and athletic triumphs, such as Stephen Curry's basketball stardom in the 2000s. Today, Davidson ranks among the top 15 liberal arts colleges nationally, with a $1 billion endowment fueling innovation. This rich history informs jobs at Davidson College, where faculty contribute to traditions of excellence and community service.
Diverse roles abound, from faculty positions in 23 departments to staff in advancement and athletics. Common openings include assistant professors in biology or economics, deans of admission, and research coordinators. For a full breakdown, explore our university job types page. Tenure-track roles emphasize teaching loads of 4-5 courses per year, while visiting positions offer one- to two-year contracts.
These positions suit those interested in higher ed jobs, particularly in liberal arts settings.
To understand jobs at Davidson College fully, key terms include:
Faculty jobs at Davidson College demand advanced degrees: PhD or terminal degree (e.g., MFA for arts) for tenure-track roles. Lecturers may hold a master's with exceptional experience. Administrative positions like academic advisors require bachelor's plus relevant certifications. Research assistants need bachelor's or master's in STEM fields. All candidates must demonstrate teaching potential via syllabi or student evaluations.
For example, a biology professor position lists 'PhD in molecular biology or related field' as essential, aligning with the college's research in genomics.
Davison prioritizes undergraduate research, so expertise in mentoring students is key. Strengths include environmental science (via the Davidson Environmental Studies Center), neuroscience, and data science. Faculty often secure NSF grants; recent projects explore climate impacts on local ecosystems. Interdisciplinary hires in digital humanities or public health thrive here. Preferred expertise: publications in peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations, and grant-writing prowess. Check research jobs for similar roles.
Top candidates boast 3-5 years post-PhD teaching, peer-reviewed publications (2-5 for assistants), and grants ($50k+). Experience with diverse classrooms and service (committees) is valued. Core skills:
Competencies like cultural humility support the inclusive environment.
Apply via Davidson's HR portal or Interfolio. Submit CV, cover letter (1-2 pages addressing fit), statements on teaching/research/diversity (500 words each), references, and portfolio. Deadlines cluster in fall for next-year starts.
Actionable tips:
See how to write a winning academic CV for edge.
Davidson excels in DEI, with the Office of Institutional Equity leading efforts. The Pluralism Project fosters dialogue, while the Chidsey Leadership Program supports underrepresented leaders. Recent hires include 30% from diverse backgrounds. Affinity groups for LGBTQ+ faculty, women in STEM, and BIPOC scholars provide community. The college's Inclusive Excellence Plan (2020-2025) funds bias training and recruitment pipelines, making it welcoming for postdoc and faculty from varied identities.
Davidson's 665-acre campus features Georgian architecture, trails, and proximity to nature. Employees enjoy 4/1/4 academic calendar (four-week January term for flexibility), sabbaticals every 6 years, and parental leave (12 weeks). Wellness includes gym, counseling, and EAP. Campus life buzzes with concerts, Wildcats games (Division I), and town events like the Davidson Farmers Market. Charlotte's airport and cultural scene are nearby, balancing small-town charm with city access. Faculty praise the collaborative vibe, low bureaucracy, and student quality enhancing daily work.
In summary, jobs at Davidson College offer prestige, impact, and community in North Carolina's higher ed landscape. From higher ed jobs to specialized university jobs, find your fit. Explore higher ed career advice or recruitment resources. Ready to apply? Visit post a job for employers or browse openings today.
