Emporia State University (ESU), located in Emporia, Kansas, stands as a beacon for academic careers in the heart of the United States. Founded in 1863, this public institution has evolved into a hub for innovative teaching and research, particularly renowned for its Teachers College and School of Library and Information Management (SLIM). Jobs at Emporia State University span faculty, administrative, and support roles, attracting professionals passionate about education and community impact. With approximately 5,000 students, ESU maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1, ensuring meaningful engagement in classrooms and research labs.
Career opportunities here emphasize practical, hands-on contributions to higher education. Whether you're eyeing tenure-track positions or administrative leadership, ESU's commitment to affordability—Kansas' lowest in-state tuition—and student success creates a dynamic work environment. The university's Hornets athletics and vibrant campus life further enhance the appeal for those considering jobs at Emporia State University.
Tracing back to its origins as the Kansas State Normal School, ESU has a storied history in preparing educators. Today, it offers over 80 undergraduate and 30 graduate programs across four colleges: Liberal Arts and Sciences, Business, Education and Professional Studies, and the School of Library and Information Management. This diversity fuels demand for specialized faculty and staff.
Recent expansions, like the Center for Innovation and Applied Technology opened in 2021, highlight ESU's forward-thinking approach, creating jobs in emerging fields such as data science and cybersecurity. Historical emphasis on teacher education means steady openings in pedagogy-related roles, making ESU a prime destination for jobs at Emporia State University.
Jobs at Emporia State University include a variety of roles tailored to academic professionals. Faculty positions dominate, from assistant professors in biology to librarians in SLIM. Administrative jobs cover deans, department chairs, and HR specialists, while support roles like research assistants and lab coordinators provide entry points.
For a deeper dive into university job types, common categories at ESU mirror broader higher ed jobs: tenure-track faculty requiring research output, adjunct instructors for flexible teaching, and executive positions in student affairs. Explore professor jobs or lecturer jobs for specifics.
Securing jobs at Emporia State University demands targeted credentials. Faculty roles typically require a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or EdD (Doctor of Education) in the relevant field, such as curriculum and instruction for Teachers College positions. Research focus areas include K-12 pedagogy, digital librarianship, and business analytics, aligning with Kansas' educational needs.
Preferred experience encompasses peer-reviewed publications—aim for 3-5 for assistant professor roles—grant writing success, and teaching portfolios. For instance, SLIM hires experts in archives management with MLS (Master of Library Science) degrees and practical library experience. Skills like data analysis tools (e.g., SPSS) and online teaching platforms (e.g., Canvas) are highly valued.
| Role Type | Min. Qualification | Research Focus | Preferred Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | PhD | Education Innovation | Publications, Grants |
| Librarian | MLS/MA | Information Science | Digital Archives Work |
| Admin Director | Master's | N/A | 5+ Years Management |
Competencies include strong communication, adaptability to hybrid teaching, and commitment to student mentorship, essential for thriving in ESU's collaborative culture.
To navigate jobs at Emporia State University, understanding terminology is crucial:
The application process for jobs at Emporia State University begins on the official HR website or platforms like AcademicJobs.com/university-jobs. Submit a CV, cover letter, transcripts, and references electronically.
Actionable tips: Leverage how to write a winning academic CV advice. Network at Kansas academic conferences. Highlight regional ties to Emporia for community-oriented roles. Use free cover letter templates to stand out. Average hiring timeline: 3-6 months.
ESU prioritizes diversity through its Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI), established to foster an inclusive campus. Initiatives include the Diversity Leadership Academy, training over 200 faculty since 2018, and recruitment pipelines for underrepresented minorities in STEM and education.
Specific examples: Annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebrations, LGBTQ+ ally training, and partnerships with Hispanic-serving organizations. In 2023, ESU increased diverse hires by 15%, reflecting commitment to equitable jobs at Emporia State University. Employees engage in cultural competency workshops, enhancing campus belonging.
Jobs at Emporia State University offer robust work-life balance with flexible scheduling, 24 paid leave days annually, and tuition waivers for employees' dependents. Campus life buzzes with Hornets basketball games at White Auditorium, faculty/staff wellness challenges, and professional development via the Jones Institute.
Emporia, Kansas, complements this with a low cost of living (20% below national average), parks like Peter Pan Park, and community events like the Flint Hills Festival. Remote-hybrid options for some roles, plus on-campus childcare, support families. Testimonials highlight collaborative departments and mentorship, ideal for long-term careers.
ESU's ranking as a top Midwest regional university by U.S. News (2024) underscores its prestige. Opportunities for grants through KBOR, state-of-the-art facilities like the Brett Musician Center, and impact on Kansas education make it compelling. For lecturers aiming high, see become a university lecturer insights.
Research assistants can excel with tips from research assistant guides, adaptable to U.S. contexts.
Jobs at Emporia State University blend academic rigor with community focus in Emporia, Kansas. From faculty to admin, opportunities abound for qualified professionals. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job to connect. Your next step awaits in the Sunflower State.
