
East Carolina University (ECU), located in Greenville, North Carolina, stands as a cornerstone of public higher education in the United States. Founded in 1907 as a teacher training school, it has evolved into a vibrant R2 research university within the University of North Carolina system, serving over 28,000 students across 300 undergraduate and graduate programs. Jobs at East Carolina University span faculty, research, administrative, and support roles, attracting professionals passionate about education, health sciences, and community impact. Whether you're eyeing tenure-track professor positions or research assistant jobs, ECU offers opportunities in its 11 colleges and schools, including the renowned Brody School of Medicine and College of Engineering and Technology.
The university's commitment to excellence is evident in its focus on student success amid national enrollment challenges. Careers here contribute to innovative teaching, cutting-edge research, and regional development in eastern North Carolina. With a beautiful 213-acre campus along the Tar River, ECU provides a supportive environment for academic professionals seeking meaningful work.
East Carolina University traces its roots to 1907 when it opened as East Carolina Teachers Training School, aimed at addressing teacher shortages in rural North Carolina. By 1929, it became East Carolina Teachers College, expanding to four-year degrees. Post-World War II growth led to its university status in 1967, and integration into the UNC system in 1972 solidified its research trajectory. Today, ECU is a leader in health professions, producing more new registered nurses annually than any other public university in the state.
This rich history shapes jobs at ECU, emphasizing service to the region. Faculty roles often involve community-engaged research, reflecting the university's land-grant ethos adapted for modern challenges like healthcare access in underserved areas.
Jobs at East Carolina University are diverse, catering to various career stages. Faculty positions include assistant, associate, and full professors in departments like biology, business, and nursing. Research roles encompass postdocs and assistants, particularly in biomedical and environmental sciences. Administrative jobs cover deans, directors, and HR (higher ed HR jobs), while support staff handle operations.
For a deeper dive into university job types, common openings include lecturer jobs for teaching-focused roles and executive positions in leadership. ECU also posts adjunct professor jobs and opportunities in its medical school, aligning with national trends in higher ed faculty jobs.
To understand jobs at East Carolina University fully, key terms include:
Faculty jobs at East Carolina University typically require a PhD in the relevant field; for example, nursing roles need a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Research focus varies: Brody School emphasizes rural health and telemedicine, while the Thomas Harriot College of Arts and Sciences prioritizes coastal ecology.
Preferred experience includes 3+ years teaching, 5+ peer-reviewed publications, and grant success (e.g., NSF or NIH funding). Skills encompass data analysis tools like R or Python for research, Canvas for teaching, and competencies like cultural competence and leadership. For admin roles, an MBA or EdD plus higher ed experience is ideal. Check professor salaries for competitive pay insights.
The application process for jobs at East Carolina University begins on their official careers site, where you submit a tailored CV, cover letter, transcripts, and three references. Search committees review materials, followed by interviews and campus visits.
Actionable tip: Review recent hires on the site to align with priorities like online learning amid demographic cliffs.
ECU champions diversity through the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, offering LED lighting awards for equity efforts and partnerships with HBCUs. The Ledford-Rogers Scholars program supports underrepresented PhD students, while Faculty Senate diversity committees ensure inclusive hiring. Women in STEM initiatives and LGBTQ+ resources foster belonging, aligning with UNC system goals.
Work-life balance at ECU is supported by generous leave policies, including 24 days annual leave and parental support. The Faculty Workload Policy allows flexibility for research. Campus life in Greenville features the scenic River Birch Lodge, Minges Coliseum for events, and proximity to the Outer Banks. Affordable housing (median home $250k), farm-to-table dining, and year-round festivals create a welcoming vibe. Employee wellness includes gym access and counseling, ideal for families.
Greenville's revitalized downtown with breweries and arts complements ECU's 500+ organizations, enhancing professional satisfaction.
Jobs at East Carolina University offer rewarding paths in a dynamic environment. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com to connect with opportunities like those at ECU. With strong rankings and growth, now's the time to apply.