Working at KH Kempen, your next career step!

🎓 Overview of Jobs at Katholieke Hogeschool Kempen

Katholieke Hogeschool Kempen, often abbreviated as KH Kempen, is a prominent university of applied sciences in Belgium's Vlaams Gewest region. Located primarily in Geel, with additional campuses in nearby areas like Lier and Turnhout, it specializes in practical, hands-on education across fields such as health sciences, biotechnology, business management, and teacher training. Jobs at Katholieke Hogeschool Kempen attract professionals passionate about bridging theory and practice in higher education. Whether you're eyeing lecturer positions or administrative roles, opportunities here emphasize innovation and student-centered teaching.

The institution, founded in the late 20th century as part of Belgium's Catholic higher education network, evolved into a key player in Flemish applied sciences. In 2014, it merged into the larger Thomas More University of Applied Sciences, but retains its distinct identity in Geel for specialized programs. Working at KH Kempen means contributing to bachelor's degrees (bachelor in de toegepaste wetenschappen) that prepare students for immediate workforce entry, with a strong emphasis on internships and projects.

For those searching for higher ed jobs, KH Kempen offers stable careers in a supportive environment. Salaries are competitive within Belgian standards, often following public sector scales with benefits like pension plans and health coverage.

📜 History and Context of KH Kempen

Established in 1995 through mergers of smaller Catholic colleges in the Kempen region, Katholieke Hogeschool Kempen quickly grew into a hub for applied learning. The Geel campus, central to many job opportunities, focuses on laboratory-based programs in biomedical sciences and environmental technology. This history shapes job roles, prioritizing educators who can translate research into classroom applications.

Belgium's higher education system divides into universities (research-focused) and hogescholen (applied sciences colleges like KH Kempen). Jobs here differ from traditional professor jobs at research universities, leaning toward practical instruction. The Flemish government's funding supports ongoing development, ensuring job security amid Europe's evolving academic landscape.

🔑 Definitions

• Docent: A lecturer responsible for teaching bachelor's courses, often with practical labs or workshops. Equivalent to an assistant professor in other systems.
• Hoofddocent: Senior lecturer or associate professor level, involving course coordination and mentoring junior staff.
• Hogeschool: Dutch term for university of applied sciences, focusing on professional bachelor's degrees rather than academic research.
• Vlaams Gewest: Flemish Region, the Dutch-speaking northern part of Belgium where KH Kempen operates.
• Toegepaste wetenschappen: Applied sciences, the core discipline at KH Kempen's Geel campus.

📋 Required Academic Qualifications for Jobs at KH Kempen

To secure jobs at Katholieke Hogeschool Kempen, candidates typically need a master's degree in a field aligned with the department, such as biomedical engineering or nursing for Geel programs. For advanced lecturer roles, a PhD (doctoraat) is advantageous, especially in research-heavy areas like biotechnology.

Administrative positions require bachelor's degrees in management or HR, with higher education experience preferred. International applicants should hold EU-recognized qualifications; non-EU candidates need work visas, facilitated by Belgium's Blue Card scheme for skilled academics.

Teaching certification, like the BasisKwalificatie Onderwijs (BKO equivalent in Flanders), is often mandatory for docenten, involving pedagogy training.

🔬 Research Focus and Expertise Needed

While primarily teaching-oriented, KH Kempen engages in applied research through centers like the Biomedical Research Centre in Geel. Expertise in areas like sustainable chemistry, health innovation, and digital transformation is sought. Jobs often involve collaborative projects with industry partners, such as local pharma firms in the Kempen region.

Candidates with publications in applied journals or patents stand out. Research assistants may support grant-funded work, aligning with EU Horizon programs.

⭐ Preferred Experience and Skills and Competencies

Employers at KH Kempen value 3-5 years of professional practice outside academia, ensuring real-world relevance. Publications, conference presentations, or grant experience (e.g., FWO funding) boost applications.

• Strong Dutch proficiency (minimum B2), with English for international programs.
• Digital skills for blended learning platforms like Canvas.
• Interpersonal competencies for student supervision and team collaboration.
• Project management for coordinating internships.

Soft skills like adaptability to multicultural classrooms are crucial in Vlaams Gewest's diverse student body.

📝 Application Process and Tips

The application process starts on the university's career portal or platforms like AcademicJobs.com university jobs. Submit a CV, motivation letter, and teaching portfolio. Interviews include demo lessons; panels assess fit for student-focused roles.

• Tailor applications to specific programs, referencing Geel campus biotech strengths.
• Network via LinkedIn or open days.
• Prepare for Dutch-language interviews unless specified English.
• Follow up post-interview; timelines span 4-8 weeks.

Tip: Highlight industry experience to differentiate from research university applicants. Review how to write a winning academic CV for best results.

🌈 Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

KH Kempen actively promotes diversity through its 'Diversiteit@KH' policy, targeting 40% female staff in STEM by 2025. Initiatives include mentorship for underrepresented groups, LGBTQ+ support networks, and international recruitment drives. In 2023, 15% of new hires were non-Belgian, reflecting commitment to inclusive campuses in Geel.

Workshops on unconscious bias and accessible teaching materials ensure equitable opportunities.

⚖️ Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

Employees enjoy 35 vacation days annually, flexible scheduling, and telework options post-COVID. Geel campus features modern labs, sports facilities, and on-site childcare, fostering balance. The Kempen region's green spaces and proximity to Antwerp (45 minutes) enhance lifestyle.

Campus life includes cultural events, staff sports clubs, and professional networks. Mental health support via EAP programs addresses academic pressures.

💼 Types of Positions and Career Growth

Common jobs include docent in health sciences (€3,500-€4,500/month), research coordinators, and HR specialists. Senior roles offer leadership in program development. For variety, see university job types.

Career progression involves promotion tracks to departmental heads, with funding for PhD pursuits or sabbaticals. Explore lecturer jobs or faculty positions for openings.

📊 Benefits and Why Choose KH Kempen

Comprehensive benefits include 13th-month pay, meal vouchers, eco-cheques, and bike allowances. Pension accrual is generous at 13.7%. Geel location offers lower living costs than Brussels.

KH Kempen's practical focus appeals to educators tired of pure research. Integrate with employer branding secrets insights for success.

🔗 Explore More Opportunities

Ready to apply? Check higher-ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, and consider posting a job if recruiting. AcademicJobs.com lists current vacancies at KH Kempen and beyond.