Lees-McRae College, often abbreviated as LMC, is a private liberal arts college located in the picturesque town of Banner Elk, North Carolina. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this institution offers a unique blend of academic rigor and outdoor adventure, making it an attractive employer for those passionate about higher education in a stunning natural setting. With approximately 900 undergraduate students, LMC maintains a close-knit community where faculty and staff play pivotal roles in shaping student success. The college is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA) and competes in NCAA Division II athletics as the Bobcats, fields like men's and women's soccer, lacrosse, and basketball drawing dedicated coaches and support staff.
Jobs at Lees-McRae College span faculty positions, administrative roles, coaching opportunities, and support services. The emphasis on experiential learning, particularly in outdoor recreation management and equestrian studies, sets LMC apart, requiring employees with specialized skills in these areas. Whether you're seeking faculty jobs or administrative positions, LMC provides a supportive environment focused on student-centered education.
Established in 1900, Lees-McRae College traces its roots to two Presbyterian schools: the Lees Institute for girls in Banner Elk and the McRae Institute for boys in Plumtree. These institutions merged in 1930 to form Lees-McRae College, relocating to its current mountain campus. Over the decades, LMC has evolved from a junior college to a four-year baccalaureate institution, gaining regional accreditation in 1968. Key milestones include the introduction of its equestrian program in the 1990s, now one of the largest in the Southeast, and transition to NCAA Division II in 2008.
This rich history influences employment at LMC, with a tradition of fostering community and faith-based values. Long-term faculty members often cite the stable, family-like atmosphere as a reason for staying, contributing to low turnover in key roles. The college's commitment to growth is evident in expansions like the 2017 opening of the Lee H. Loftin, Sr. Student Center, creating new jobs in facilities and student services.
Lees-McRae College offers over 50 majors and minors across schools of Liberal Arts, Natural Sciences, Education and Exercise Science, Business, and Fine Arts. Popular programs include Outdoor Recreation Management, Teacher Education, Criminal Justice, and Equestrian Studies, driving demand for specialized faculty. The college emphasizes small class sizes (average 15 students), so teaching excellence is paramount for jobs at Lees-McRae College.
Departments frequently hiring include:
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To understand jobs at Lees-McRae College, key terms include:
For faculty jobs at Lees-McRae College, required academic qualifications typically include a PhD or EdD for tenure-track roles in academic departments, while master's degrees suffice for adjunct or professional fields like business. In education and exercise science, state certification or licensure is essential.
Research focus aligns with undergraduate teaching; faculty engage in applied research, such as environmental studies in the nearby mountains or equine health studies. Preferred experience includes 3-5 years of college-level teaching, publications in peer-reviewed journals, and grant funding from sources like the National Science Foundation.
Skills and competencies sought:
Administrative jobs require bachelor's degrees minimum, with MBAs preferred for leadership positions.
The application process begins by monitoring the college's career page and platforms like higher ed jobs listings on AcademicJobs.com. Submit a cover letter addressing the mission fit, CV highlighting teaching experience, transcripts, and three references. Interviews often include teaching demonstrations and campus visits.
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Lees-McRae College actively advances diversity through its Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Committee, which organizes workshops and cultural events. Examples include the annual Diversity Week with guest speakers, scholarships for first-generation and minority students, and hiring practices promoting underrepresented groups in faculty (targeting 20% increase by 2025). Affinity groups for women in STEM and LGBTQ+ support ensure inclusive campus jobs.
Work-life balance at Lees-McRae College benefits from its rural setting, offering low-stress environment with flexible schedules for faculty (e.g., 12-16 credit hours/semester). Campus life revolves around community events, hiking trails, and ski resorts minutes away. Employees enjoy perks like tuition remission, health benefits, and retirement matching. Athletics foster team spirit, while the small size allows meaningful relationships. Remote work is limited, but hybrid options exist post-COVID.
Current openings include assistant professor in Teacher Education and athletic trainers. Banner Elk's location appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, with low cost of living enhancing appeal. Salaries competitive for small colleges: assistant professors ~$55,000-$65,000, per professor salaries data.
In summary, jobs at Lees-McRae College offer rewarding careers in a vibrant mountain community. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com to advance your academic journey.
