Edward Waters College, officially Edward Waters University since recent elevation, stands as a cornerstone of higher education in Jacksonville, Florida. Founded in 1866 by the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, it holds the distinction of being the state's first private institution of higher learning and the inaugural Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Florida. This small, private Christian university enrolls around 1,210 students as of fall 2025, marking a 30% increase since 2019, reflecting dynamic growth under President A. Zachary Faison, Jr.
Jobs at Edward Waters College attract educators, researchers, and administrators passionate about empowering first-generation and underrepresented students. With over 75% of HBCU students relying on Pell Grants—and 90% at Edward Waters—the institution fosters an environment where faculty and staff contribute to transformative education. Career opportunities span teaching, research, administration, and support roles, often listed on platforms like HigherEdJobs and the university's careers page.
The rich history of Edward Waters College traces back to post-Civil War efforts by AME Church members to educate freedmen. Initially named Brown Theological Institute by Rev. William G. Steward, it evolved through name changes and challenges, including fires and accreditation journeys, to become a fully accredited university. Today, it remains one of four HBCUs tied to the AME Church, producing leaders like 40% of Black engineers and 80% of Black judges from HBCUs nationwide.
This legacy shapes jobs at Edward Waters College, where employees engage in a mission-driven culture emphasizing resilience and community impact. Recent milestones, like launching the HBCU Journal of Research Initiatives via the Honors College, highlight opportunities for scholarly contributions amid enrollment surges and national recognition as a rising private HBCU.
Edward Waters College offers undergraduate programs in fields like communications (Bachelor of Science), business, education, sciences, and social sciences. These departments drive demand for faculty positions, from tenure-track professors to adjunct lecturers. Administrative roles support student services, while research jobs align with institutional priorities.
For a deeper dive into university job types, positions often include lecturer jobs, professor jobs, and higher ed jobs in administration. Current listings on Indeed show 32 openings, such as coordinators and specialists, underscoring active hiring in this vibrant HBCU setting.
Securing faculty jobs at Edward Waters College demands rigorous credentials. Tenure-track positions typically require a PhD or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant discipline, such as a Doctor of Education (EdD) for education roles or PhD in Communications for media programs. Master's degrees suffice for adjunct professor jobs or lecturer jobs, paired with substantial teaching experience.
Administrative higher ed jobs may prioritize advanced degrees like an MBA for business operations or MEd for academic advising. All candidates must demonstrate alignment with HBCU values, often verified through transcripts and prior academic roles.
Research at Edward Waters College centers on HBCU student success, institutional transformation, and community advancement. Expertise in areas like educational equity, African American studies, STEM for underrepresented groups, and communications is prized. The Honors College's journal publishes on these themes, offering faculty chances to lead initiatives.
Preferred research involves grants, publications, and collaborations, supporting the university's growth narrative. Faculty with experience in Pell Grant-funded research or AME Church-aligned projects excel here, contributing to outputs like the revived Edward Waters College Research Journal post-COVID.
Top candidates for jobs at Edward Waters College bring publications in peer-reviewed journals, grant-writing success, and 3-5 years of higher education teaching. Skills include curriculum development, mentoring diverse students, and data-driven pedagogy.
Competencies emphasize cultural humility, community engagement, and adaptability in a small-campus setting. Tech proficiency for hybrid learning and leadership in accreditation efforts are bonuses. Check how to write a winning academic CV for tailoring applications.
The application process for Edward Waters College jobs begins online via ew.edu/careers or aggregators like HigherEdJobs and AcademicJobs.com. Submit a tailored cover letter, CV, teaching philosophy statement, and three references. Interviews may involve demos or campus visits in Jacksonville.
Actionable tips: Highlight HBCU experience; quantify impacts (e.g., 'Mentored 50 first-gen students'); network via UNCF events. Customize for Florida's context, emphasizing urban Jacksonville appeal. Use free resume templates and proofread rigorously. Follow up post-submission.
As Florida's pioneering HBCU, Edward Waters College embeds diversity in its DNA, serving predominantly Black and first-generation students. Initiatives include targeted recruitment for underrepresented faculty, AME Church partnerships for cultural programming, and UNCF collaborations for student success.
Recent efforts under President Faison combat outdated perceptions, boosting enrollment and launching research journals spotlighting HBCU scholarship. Employee resource groups and equity training foster inclusive workplaces, aligning with national trends where HBCUs produce disproportionate Black professionals.
Work-life balance at Edward Waters College benefits from Jacksonville's sunny climate, beaches, and proximity to urban amenities. The compact campus promotes collaboration without big-city commute stress, with flexible schedules for faculty research and teaching.
Campus life buzzes with AME traditions, homecoming, and community events. Employees enjoy professional development, wellness programs, and growth opportunities in a rising institution. Jacksonville's cost of living supports family life, blending Southern hospitality with coastal vibes—ideal for long-term careers.
Joining Edward Waters means shaping future leaders at a historic, evolving HBCU. With enrollment highs and national buzz, careers here offer impact, stability, and community. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, and post a job for more pathways.
Ready to contribute? Jacksonville awaits with purpose-driven roles at this trailblazing institution.
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