Gonzaga University, located in Spokane, Washington, stands as a beacon of Jesuit education in the United States. Established in 1887, this private Catholic institution has grown into a respected liberal arts university with a student body of approximately 7,500 undergraduates and graduates. Known colloquially as GU or the Zags, particularly for its celebrated men's basketball program, Gonzaga offers a range of jobs at Gonzaga University that attract educators, researchers, and administrators passionate about holistic student development. Jobs at Gonzaga University emphasize the Jesuit principles of intellectual rigor, ethical leadership, and service to others, making it an appealing destination for academic professionals seeking meaningful careers.
The university's campus, nestled along the Spokane River, provides a picturesque setting that fosters community and reflection. With schools including the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business Administration, School of Engineering and Applied Science, School of Education, School of Health, and School of Law, opportunities span diverse disciplines. Whether pursuing faculty positions, staff roles, or leadership jobs, candidates find a supportive environment dedicated to cura personalis—care for the whole person.
Gonzaga University traces its roots to 1887 when Jesuit priests from the Oregon Province founded it as a preparatory school. It evolved into a four-year college in 1927 and achieved university status in 1979. Today, Gonzaga upholds its mission "to educate students for lives of faith, justice, and service," influencing all jobs at Gonzaga University. This ethos shapes hiring, prioritizing candidates who align with Ignatian spirituality and social justice.
Key milestones include the establishment of the Foley Center for Catholic Studies and the growth of its law school, which ranks highly for practical training. The university's commitment to undergraduate research and study abroad programs—over 60 options worldwide—creates dynamic roles for faculty mentors and international coordinators.
Gonzaga University posts a variety of positions, from tenure-track faculty to adjunct instructors, research associates, and administrative leaders. Faculty jobs dominate, particularly in growing areas like nursing, computer science, and environmental studies. Administrative roles in student affairs, advancement, and athletics support the university's 100+ clubs and Division I sports.
Common openings include:
For detailed insights into university job types, including lecturer jobs and professor jobs, visit our resource page. Gonzaga also offers part-time adjunct professor jobs ideal for those balancing multiple commitments.
To understand jobs at Gonzaga University fully, key terms include:
Jobs at Gonzaga University demand rigorous credentials. Faculty positions typically require a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant field, such as EdD for education roles or JD for law faculty.
Research focus varies by department: STEM fields prioritize grants from NSF (National Science Foundation) or NIH (National Institutes of Health), while humanities emphasize publications in peer-reviewed journals. Preferred experience includes 2-5 years of postdoctoral work, teaching diverse student populations, and securing external funding—Gonzaga faculty have obtained over $10 million in grants annually.
Essential skills and competencies:
Candidates with experience in service-learning—integrating community projects into courses—stand out, aligning with Gonzaga's 90,000+ service hours logged by students yearly.
The application process for jobs at Gonzaga University begins on their careers site (gonzaga.edu/jobs). Submit a tailored CV, cover letter addressing Jesuit mission fit, statement of teaching philosophy, research agenda, and three references. Interviews often include teaching demonstrations and mission-focused discussions.
Actionable tips:
Review how to write a winning academic CV for edge. Applications peak in fall for August starts.
Gonzaga University actively pursues inclusive excellence through the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Initiatives include the Inclusive Excellence Faculty Fellows program, training on unconscious bias, and the Black Excellence Affinity Group. The university's strategic plan commits to increasing underrepresented faculty by 20% by 2030.
Recent efforts: Partnering with HERC (Higher Education Recruitment Consortium) for diverse hiring and hosting the annual Diversity Leadership Conference. These support jobs at Gonzaga University by fostering equitable environments, with metrics showing improved retention for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) employees.
Gonzaga prioritizes employee well-being with policies like flexible work arrangements, generous parental leave (12 weeks), and an Employee Assistance Program. The campus features modern facilities, including the McCarthy Athletic Center and beautiful gardens for reflection.
Spokane enhances life with low cost of living (20% below national average), outdoor pursuits like hiking in Riverside State Park, and cultural events at the Fox Theater. Faculty enjoy tuition remission (up to 50% for dependents), sabbaticals every seven years, and wellness stipends. Community events, such as Zag Family Days, build bonds. Overall, 85% of employees report high satisfaction in surveys.
Professional growth is central, with funding for conferences, workshops, and the Center for Teaching and Learning. Tenure-track faculty advance through promotion committees evaluating scholarship, teaching innovations, and service. Explore higher ed career advice for strategies.
Gonzaga's alumni network (60,000+) aids career mobility, with many advancing to deanships or industry roles.
In summary, jobs at Gonzaga University offer intellectual stimulation, community impact, and personal growth in a stunning Pacific Northwest locale. From higher ed faculty jobs to admin positions, opportunities abound. Check higher ed jobs, university jobs, and post a job on AcademicJobs.com. For branding tips, see employer branding secrets. Ready to join? Start your search today.
