Lake Superior State University (LSSU), located in the scenic city of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, offers a variety of rewarding jobs in higher education. Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior and near the iconic Soo Locks, LSSU provides a unique setting for academic professionals seeking meaningful work in a close-knit community. With approximately 2,000 students, the university emphasizes hands-on learning and applied research, making it an ideal place for faculty and staff passionate about student success and regional impact.
Jobs at LSSU span faculty positions, administrative roles, and support staff opportunities. The university's small size allows for collaborative environments where employees contribute directly to institutional goals. Whether you're interested in teaching, research, or operations, LSSU's focus on practical programs like fisheries management—one of the nation's top-ranked—sets it apart.
Founded in 1946 as a two-year extension of Michigan Technological University, LSSU became a four-year institution in 1968 and gained full university status in 1970. Situated in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, it benefits from its proximity to Canada and the Great Lakes, influencing programs in environmental science, border security, and nursing. The campus spans 116 acres, featuring modern facilities like the Toudor Fine Arts Center and the Lewis Science Complex.
LSSU offers over 60 undergraduate and several graduate programs, with strengths in criminal justice, engineering technology, and health sciences. Enrollment hovers around 1,800-2,000, creating small class sizes (average 20 students) that appeal to educators who value personal interaction. The university's mascot, the Lakers, reflects its lakeside location, and annual events like Banished Words List add cultural flair.
For those exploring university jobs, LSSU represents a stable employer with state support and a commitment to affordability—it's among Michigan's lowest tuition rates.
Career opportunities at LSSU include tenure-track faculty roles, adjunct instructors, research positions, and administrative jobs. Faculty openings often arise in high-demand areas like nursing (BSN program), biology, and business administration. Staff positions cover student services, IT, facilities, and HR.
Visit university job types for detailed breakdowns of these positions across higher education.
To secure jobs at LSSU, candidates need strong academic credentials. Faculty positions generally require a PhD or EdD in the field, though master's degrees suffice for some teaching roles like adjuncts in professional programs.
Research focus aligns with LSSU's strengths: Great Lakes fisheries (ranked #1 nationally for undergrad), wildlife biology, and forensic science. Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications, grant funding from NSF or Michigan DNR, and teaching in small-class settings. For example, biology faculty often have fieldwork in Lake Superior ecosystems.
Skills and competencies emphasize:
Administrative jobs prioritize experience in higher ed operations, with certifications like SHRM for HR roles.
To help understand key terms in LSSU job postings:
Applying for jobs at LSSU begins with monitoring their careers page or platforms like higher ed jobs listings. Submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, and references online.
Actionable tips:
Interviews may include teaching demos. Learn from how to write a winning academic CV.
LSSU actively advances diversity through its Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Council, established to foster belonging. Initiatives include:
In 2023, LSSU reported increased diverse hires, reflecting Michigan's demographics. The Anishinaabek Center supports Native American initiatives, vital near Bay Mills community.
LSSU promotes balance with a 4/1/4 academic calendar (four-week January term for focused study). Employees enjoy flexible hours, generous PTO (20+ days/year), and tuition remission for dependents.
Campus life thrives outdoors: hiking, fishing, snowmobiling in the UP. Sault Ste. Marie offers low living costs ($1,200/month rent), community events, and proximity to Mackinac Island. Faculty praise the supportive culture, low bureaucracy, and student engagement. Athletics (NAIA Lakers) and clubs provide social outlets.
LSSU combines academic rigor with real-world impact, ideal for those valuing teaching and research in a stunning location. Salaries competitive for region (faculty $70K average), with benefits like retirement matching.
Explore more higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. For Michigan opportunities, see Michigan university jobs or Sault Ste. Marie jobs.
Ready to join? LSSU awaits professionals dedicated to shaping future leaders by Lake Superior.
