La Sierra University, located in Riverside, California, stands as a beacon for those seeking meaningful careers in higher education. Affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church, this private institution offers a unique blend of academic rigor and spiritual nurturing. Jobs at La Sierra University attract professionals passionate about integrating faith with learning, providing opportunities in teaching, research, administration, and support services. Whether you're eyeing faculty positions or administrative roles, the university's commitment to holistic education makes it an appealing destination for academic professionals.
Riverside's vibrant community and proximity to Los Angeles enhance the appeal, offering a balance of suburban tranquility and urban access. The campus spans 57 acres, fostering a close-knit environment where employees contribute to shaping future leaders.
Established in 1922 as La Sierra Academy, it evolved into a junior college and later a four-year institution in 1963 when it became La Sierra College. In 1974, it joined Loma Linda University before gaining independence in 1990 as La Sierra University. This evolution reflects its dedication to liberal arts education within a Christian framework, with key milestones including the launch of graduate programs in the 1980s and expansion of health sciences offerings. Today, it serves around 1,500 students, emphasizing undergraduate teaching alongside research.
La Sierra University features schools of Business, Education, Religion, Science and Technology, and Behavioral Health. Popular programs include nursing, biology, psychology, and business administration. Faculty jobs often align with these areas, where instructors engage in innovative teaching methods suited to small class sizes, averaging 15 students per class. The university's low student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1 allows for personalized mentorship, a hallmark of jobs here.
Careers span faculty, staff, and leadership roles. Faculty positions include full-time professors, adjunct instructors, and lecturers focusing on undergraduate education. Administrative jobs cover admissions, student services, and HR. Research roles, though limited, exist in sciences and social sciences. For a full breakdown of university job types, explore available categories tailored to higher ed institutions like this one.
To secure jobs at La Sierra University, candidates need strong academic credentials. Faculty roles typically demand a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant field, such as a Doctor of Education (EdD) for education positions or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for health sciences.
Research focus varies by department: biology emphasizes environmental studies, psychology explores behavioral health, and religion integrates Adventist theology. Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications, grant funding from bodies like the National Science Foundation, and prior teaching at accredited institutions. Skills and competencies prized here encompass excellent communication, curriculum development, student advising, and cultural sensitivity. Technical proficiency in tools like learning management systems (e.g., Canvas) is essential, alongside a commitment to service-learning projects that align with the university's mission.
Staff roles require bachelor's degrees minimum, with master's preferred for senior positions, plus experience in higher ed administration.
Key terms for jobs at La Sierra University include:
The application process begins on the university's HR website, where you submit a cover letter, CV (curriculum vitae - a detailed academic resume), teaching philosophy statement, and three references. Interviews often include a teaching demonstration and mission fit discussion.
Actionable tips:
Processing takes 4-6 weeks; track status via portal.
La Sierra University actively pursues diversity through the Office of Multicultural Affairs, hosting events like Cultural Heritage Month celebrations. Recruitment targets underrepresented minorities, with scholarships for diverse faculty. The Equity and Inclusion Council develops policies promoting accessibility, including accommodations for disabilities and support for first-generation employees. Recent initiatives include bias training workshops and partnerships with HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) for exchanges.
Work-life balance is prioritized with flexible hours, generous vacation (20 days/year), and Sabbath observance from sunset Friday to sunset Saturday. Campus life buzzes with concerts, athletic events (Golden Eagles teams), and spiritual retreats. Riverside offers hiking in Box Springs Mountain Reserve, proximity to Disneyland (45 minutes), and a mild climate averaging 280 sunny days annually. Employee wellness programs include gym access, counseling, and family events, fostering a supportive community of about 300 staff and faculty.
Faculty salaries range from $70,000-$110,000 based on rank and experience, competitive for California liberal arts colleges. Benefits feature tuition remission for dependents, health coverage, 403(b) retirement matching, and professional development funds up to $2,000/year. Explore professor salaries for benchmarks.
The university's mission-driven culture, small size, and location make it ideal for those valuing impact over scale. With emphasis on teaching excellence and community service, employees find fulfillment in shaping lives. For broader opportunities, check higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job if recruiting.
In summary, jobs at La Sierra University offer a rewarding path for dedicated educators in Riverside, California. Leverage resources like higher ed faculty jobs and career guides to advance your application.
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