Working at HC, your next career step!

🌟 Overview of Jobs at Hastings College

Hastings College, located in the heart of Hastings, Nebraska, is a private liberal arts institution affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA). Founded in 1882, it serves around 1,000 undergraduate students on a picturesque 114-acre campus. Jobs at Hastings College span faculty, administrative, and support roles, offering opportunities to contribute to a close-knit academic community dedicated to holistic education. Whether you're seeking tenure-track positions, adjunct teaching gigs, or administrative leadership, the college emphasizes teaching excellence, student mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Positions here are ideal for professionals passionate about undergraduate education in a supportive, faith-informed environment.

The college's commitment to the liberal arts means jobs often involve innovative teaching methods, small class sizes (average 15-20 students), and involvement in campus life. With Nebraska's affordable cost of living and the charm of a small city (population ~25,000), working at Hastings College provides a balanced lifestyle. Explore higher ed jobs like these to see how they align with your career goals.

📜 History of Hastings College and Its Employment Legacy

Hastings College traces its roots to 1882, when it was established by the Presbyterian Church as a four-year coeducational college. Over 140 years, it has evolved into a respected liberal arts powerhouse, earning recognition for academic rigor and community engagement. Key milestones include the construction of iconic buildings like the McCormick Hall (1926) and the expansion of programs in music and athletics during the mid-20th century. Today, it maintains NAIA Division I status with the Hastings College Broncos, fostering a vibrant campus culture.

The employment history reflects this growth: early faculty were pioneering educators shaping Nebraska's higher education landscape. Modern jobs continue this tradition, with a focus on faculty who embody the college's motto, "Ad Consummationem Bonorum" (To the Completion of All Good Things). Long-term employees often cite the stability and sense of purpose as reasons for staying, with many retiring after decades of service.

🏛️ Academic Programs and Departments Hiring at Hastings College

Hastings College offers over 50 majors and minors across arts, sciences, humanities, business, and education. Standout programs include music (with a renowned symphonic and jazz band), business administration, teacher education, and biology. Departments frequently hire for roles in these areas, prioritizing candidates who can integrate real-world applications into coursework.

• Music Department: Seeks conductors, performers, and theorists with performance experience.
• Business and Economics: Needs experts in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
• Education: Hires for K-12 preparation programs, emphasizing practical pedagogy.
• Sciences: Positions in biology, chemistry, and physics for lab-based teaching.

For a full spectrum of university job types, including professor and lecturer roles, review our guide. Recent hires have bolstered STEM initiatives and fine arts, reflecting enrollment growth.

🔑 Definitions

To understand jobs at Hastings College, key terms include:

• Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to permanent employment after a probationary period (typically 6 years), involving teaching, research, and service.
• Adjunct professor: Part-time instructor hired per course, without benefits or tenure path.
• Liberal arts college: An institution emphasizing broad undergraduate education in humanities, sciences, and arts over specialized vocational training.
• NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics): Governing body for college sports at smaller schools like Hastings, promoting character and academics.

📋 Required Qualifications, Skills, and Competencies for Jobs at Hastings College

Jobs at Hastings College demand specific academic and professional qualifications tailored to a teaching-oriented liberal arts setting.

Required Academic Qualifications: Tenure-track faculty typically need a PhD or terminal degree (e.g., DMA for music, EdD for education) in the relevant field from an accredited institution. Master's degrees suffice for adjunct or lecturer roles.

Research Focus or Expertise Needed: While not research-intensive like R1 universities, candidates should demonstrate potential in scholarly activity, such as publications in peer-reviewed journals or conference presentations. Expertise in interdisciplinary areas, like environmental science or digital humanities, is valued.

Preferred Experience: 3-5 years of college-level teaching, grant writing (e.g., from NSF or PC(USA) sources), and student advising. Music faculty benefit from professional performance portfolios.

Skills and Competencies:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for mentoring diverse students.
• Proficiency in learning management systems like Canvas.
• Commitment to inclusive teaching practices.
• Administrative savvy for committee work.

Check how to write a winning academic CV to showcase these effectively.

📝 Application Process and Tips for Landing Jobs at Hastings College

The application process begins on the Hastings College careers page or via HigherEdJobs and AcademicJobs.com listings. Submit a cover letter, CV, teaching philosophy statement, transcripts, and three references. Interviews often include a teaching demonstration and campus visit.

Actionable Tips:

• Customize your materials to the Presbyterian mission and liberal arts focus—mention faith integration if applicable.
• Highlight student-centered achievements, like innovative courses or retention impacts.
• Network at conferences like those from the Council of Independent Colleges.
• Follow up politely two weeks post-submission.
• Prepare for questions on diversity and service commitments.

For adjunct seekers, emphasize flexibility and subject passion. See employer branding secrets to understand what attracts top talent like you.

🌈 Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives at Hastings College

Hastings College actively promotes diversity through the Diversity Leadership Council, which advises on equitable policies. Initiatives include the Multicultural Student Union, scholarships like the Diversity Leadership Scholarship for underrepresented groups, and faculty hires prioritizing inclusive excellence. In 2023, 25% of new faculty hires were from diverse backgrounds, exceeding regional averages. The college partners with organizations like the Posse Foundation for inclusive recruiting and offers bias training. These efforts create a welcoming environment for jobs at Hastings College.

⚖️ Work-Life Balance and Campus Life at Hastings College

In Hastings, Nebraska, employees thrive in a low-stress, community-oriented setting. The college supports work-life balance with 12 weeks paid family leave, flexible scheduling, and on-campus childcare options. Campus life buzzes with events like Homecoming, Bronco athletics games, and cultural festivals. Faculty participate in governance via committees and enjoy perks like free tickets to performances. The small-town vibe—safe streets, local festivals, and proximity to Platte River recreation—enhances quality of life. Wellness programs include gym access and mental health support, fostering long-term satisfaction.

📈 Why Pursue Jobs at Hastings College?

With competitive salaries (assistant professors ~$60K-$70K, per AAUP data), tuition remission, and a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, Hastings offers meaningful impact. Explore professor salaries and faculty jobs for comparisons. For research roles, see research assistant jobs.

In summary, jobs at Hastings College blend academic passion with community. Visit higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job to advance your path.