Discover Maine College of Art & Design Jobs, where creative minds thrive in a vibrant community dedicated to visual arts and design. Located in the heart of Portland, Maine, this esteemed institution offers professor positions at Maine College of Art & Design, higher education jobs at Maine College of Art & Design, and research jobs at Maine College of Art & Design that foster innovation and artistic expression. Whether you're seeking academic careers at Maine College of Art & Design as a lecturer, faculty member, or administrator, explore competitive salaries in Maine College of Art & Design academia, ranging from $50,000 for entry-level roles to over $90,000 for senior professors. Dive into lecturer roles at Maine College of Art & Design and rate professors at Maine College of Art & Design through AcademicJobs.com's Rate My Professor platform to make informed decisions. With a focus on contemporary art trends and collaborative projects, Maine College of Art & Design provides unparalleled academic opportunities. Check out faculty jobs at Maine College of Art & Design and start your journey today by visiting Rate My Professor for insights into top educators.
About Maine College of Art & Design
Founded in 1882 as part of the Portland Society of Art, Maine College of Art & Design (MECA&D) has evolved into a premier independent college of art and design in the United States. Located in the bustling Arts District of Portland, Maine, the institution is committed to educating artists and designers who will shape the future of visual culture. With a mission to foster creativity, critical thinking, and professional skills, MECA&D offers undergraduate and graduate programs including Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degrees in 11 majors such as Illustration, Graphic Design, Painting, Sculpture, and Metalsmithing & Jewelry, as well as a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Studio Arts and a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT). The college boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio of about 9:1, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship. Key achievements include its accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and its role in revitalizing Portland's creative economy. The campus spans several historic buildings in downtown Portland, providing access to galleries, studios, and community resources. MECA&D emphasizes experiential learning through internships, public exhibitions, and collaborations with local industries. For more details, visit the Maine College of Art & Design Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in Maine, and Academic Jobs in Portland.
MECA&D's history is rooted in promoting artistic excellence, with notable alumni including artists like Alex Katz and writers who have influenced contemporary art scenes. The college's key departments focus on interdisciplinary approaches, blending traditional techniques with modern technology, such as digital fabrication in Sculpture or sustainable practices in Textile & Fashion Design. Recent trends show a growing emphasis on community-engaged art and social justice themes, aligning with Portland's vibrant cultural landscape. Job trends at MECA&D highlight demand for faculty in emerging fields like Animation and Game Art, reflecting the rise of digital media. The institution is known for its inclusive environment, supporting diverse voices in the arts. Academics and students benefit from proximity to institutions like the Portland Museum of Art and annual events like the MECA&D Holiday Sale. For those interested in professor ratings at Maine College of Art & Design, check Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com. This overview underscores why MECA&D is a hub for academic careers at Maine College of Art & Design, offering a blend of tradition and innovation.
In terms of campus life, MECA&D's location in Portland provides access to a thriving arts community, with seafood-rich cuisine, coastal scenery, and cultural festivals enhancing the student experience. The college has invested in state-of-the-art facilities, including the Institute of Contemporary Art at MECA&D, which hosts exhibitions and public programs. Key milestones include the 2012 merger with the Salt Institute for Documentary Studies, expanding offerings in narrative arts. With enrollment around 500 students, MECA&D maintains a close-knit atmosphere conducive to collaboration. For job seekers, this means opportunities in higher education jobs at Maine College of Art & Design that emphasize mentorship and creative freedom. Salaries in Maine College of Art & Design academia are competitive for the region, with additional perks like professional development funds. Explore more about academic opportunities at Maine College of Art & Design through resources on AcademicJobs.com.
Faculty Job Opportunities at Maine College of Art & Design
Faculty job opportunities at Maine College of Art & Design are abundant for those passionate about nurturing artistic talent. High-demand roles include Assistant Professor in Graphic Design, Lecturer in Illustration, and Adjunct Faculty in Painting, reflecting the college's focus on visual arts disciplines. Based on 2025 academic trends, there's increasing need for positions in digital media and sustainable design, with departments like Animation and Textile & Fashion Design seeing growth due to industry demands for innovative creators. Research indicates that MECA&D prioritizes faculty who can integrate technology with traditional arts, such as using VR in sculpture courses. Salary ranges for these roles vary: Assistant Professors typically earn $55,000-$70,000 annually, while Associate Professors command $70,000-$85,000, and Full Professors can reach $90,000+, influenced by experience, tenure status, and grant funding. These figures are sourced from recent data on Maine higher education salaries, adjusted for the arts sector where creative output often supplements income through exhibitions. For instance, a Research Fellow in Metalsmithing & Jewelry might start at $50,000, with opportunities for stipends from collaborative projects. To explore these professor positions at Maine College of Art & Design, visit AcademicJobs.com's Higher Ed Jobs filtered by MECA&D. Academic careers at Maine College of Art & Design also include administrative roles like Department Chair in Sculpture, offering leadership in curriculum development.
Job trends for 2025 highlight a shift towards interdisciplinary roles, such as Faculty in Public Engagement, where educators facilitate community-based art projects in Portland. This aligns with MECA&D's mission to connect academia with real-world impact, supported by partnerships with local galleries. Lecturer roles at Maine College of Art & Design often involve part-time commitments, ideal for practicing artists, with salaries around $45,000-$60,000 pro-rated. Factors like the college's small size enable close student interactions, making it appealing for those seeking meaningful teaching experiences. Research jobs at Maine College of Art & Design focus on artistic inquiry, with funding from sources like the National Endowment for the Arts. For salary insights, check Professor Salaries on AcademicJobs.com. Opportunities extend to remote or hybrid positions in online art education, broadening access. In Maine's creative economy, these roles contribute to economic growth, with MECA&D faculty often exhibiting nationally. Explore faculty jobs at Maine College of Art & Design in Academic Jobs in Maine or Academic Jobs in Portland. With a commitment to diversity, MECA&D seeks inclusive hires, enhancing academic opportunities at Maine College of Art & Design.
To apply, candidates should highlight portfolios and teaching philosophies aligned with MECA&D's values. The hiring process emphasizes creative contributions over traditional publications, unique to art institutions. Recent openings include positions in Ceramics and Printmaking, with competitive benefits like health insurance and sabbaticals. For those in research, grants support innovative projects, such as eco-art initiatives. Salaries in Maine College of Art & Design academia are bolstered by cost-of-living adjustments in Portland, a city known for its affordability compared to larger metros. Compare with other institutions via University Salaries. This section underscores why higher education jobs at Maine College of Art & Design are ideal for artists-educators seeking balance between practice and pedagogy.
Assistant Professor in Graphic Design 💼
Salary: $55,000-$70,000. Focus on digital tools and branding.
Lecturer in Illustration 🎨
Salary: $45,000-$60,000. Teach narrative techniques.
Adjunct Faculty in Painting
Part-time, $3,000-$5,000 per course. Emphasize contemporary methods.
Research Fellow in Sculpture
Salary: $50,000+. Innovate with materials.
Why Work at Maine College of Art & Design
Working at Maine College of Art & Design offers a unique blend of creative freedom and professional growth in a supportive environment. Academics benefit from small class sizes, allowing for deep mentorship and collaboration with students passionate about art. Research opportunities abound, with access to state-of-the-art studios and funding for personal projects, such as exhibitions at the Institute of Contemporary Art. Career prospects are strong, with many faculty advancing to leadership roles or gaining national recognition through MECA&D's networks. Unique benefits include flexible schedules for practicing artists, professional development workshops, and integration into Portland's thriving arts scene. The college's emphasis on work-life balance, amid Maine's natural beauty, makes it rewarding. Explore more via Higher Ed Jobs.
MECA&D stands out for its commitment to innovation, with programs encouraging interdisciplinary work that bridges art and social issues. Faculty enjoy competitive salaries in Maine College of Art & Design academia and perks like tuition remission for dependents. The inclusive culture fosters diversity, enhancing academic careers at Maine College of Art & Design.
Salary Guide for Faculty at Maine College of Art & Design
The salary guide for faculty at Maine College of Art & Design reflects the institution's position in the competitive arts education sector. Based on 2025 data from sources like Chronicle of Higher Education and Glassdoor, average salaries range from $50,000 for Adjunct Instructors to $95,000+ for Full Professors. Factors influencing pay include experience, department (e.g., higher in Graphic Design due to industry demand), and location in Portland, where cost of living is moderate. Entry-level Assistant Professors earn $55,000-$70,000, with bonuses for grants or exhibitions. Associate Professors average $70,000-$85,000, often with tenure perks. Full Professors, especially in research-heavy areas like Sculpture, can exceed $90,000, supplemented by consulting. Compared to national averages, MECA&D offers solid compensation for arts faculty, with adjustments for Maine's economy. Benefits like health coverage and retirement plans add value. For detailed comparisons, visit Professor Salaries on AcademicJobs.com.
Salaries vary by rank: Lecturers might earn $45,000-$60,000 part-time, while Department Chairs add $10,000-$15,000 in stipends. Trends show increases in digital arts roles due to tech integration, boosting pay. Location in Portland provides affordability, making net income attractive. Research funding can enhance earnings through external grants. This guide helps job seekers navigate salaries in Maine College of Art & Design academia.
Additional factors include union negotiations and performance reviews, which can lead to raises. For instance, faculty with MFA degrees and exhibition records command higher starting points. In 2025, projections indicate 3-5% salary growth amid rising enrollment. Compare with other universities via University Salaries.
| Role 📊 | Salary Range 📍 | Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $55,000-$70,000 | Experience, department |
| Associate Professor | $70,000-$85,000 | Tenure, grants |
| Full Professor | $90,000+ | Leadership, exhibitions |
| Lecturer | $45,000-$60,000 | Part-time status |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at Maine College of Art & Design
Discover top educators at Maine College of Art & Design through AcademicJobs.com's Rate My Professor platform, where student ratings highlight excellence in teaching and mentorship. This tool aids in choosing courses and recognizing outstanding faculty in professor ratings at Maine College of Art & Design. Ratings help job seekers gauge departmental cultures too.
Rachel Katz - Painting
Rating: 4.8/5. Praised for inspiring critiques.
Justin Richel - Illustration
Rating: 4.7/5. Expert in narrative art.
Ling-Wen Tsai - Sculpture
Rating: 4.9/5. Innovative material use.
Adriane Herman - Printmaking
Rating: 4.6/5. Community-focused projects.
Gail Spaien - Graphic Design
Rating: 4.8/5. Digital expertise.
Dietlind Vander Schaaf - MFA Program
Rating: 4.7/5. Mentorship excellence.
Career Progression at Maine College of Art & Design
Career progression at Maine College of Art & Design follows a tenure-track model tailored to arts education, starting from Adjunct to Full Professor. Entry-level academics build portfolios through teaching and exhibitions, advancing with research funding from grants. Salaries increase by rank: Assistants at $55k, Associates at $75k, Full at $90k+. Professional development includes workshops and sabbaticals. Learn more at Higher Ed Career Advice.
MECA&D's strengths in contemporary art support unique paths, like transitioning to administrative roles.
Research and Innovation at Maine College of Art & Design
Research at Maine College of Art & Design emphasizes innovative art practices, with trends in sustainable design and digital storytelling. Major areas include community-engaged projects and interdisciplinary collaborations. Funding comes from NEA grants, with centers like the ICA supporting exhibitions. Explore Research Jobs.
Innovations include VR in art education and eco-materials research.
Resources for Maine College of Art & Design Academics
- Professional development workshops on teaching innovation 🎓
- Faculty unions for advocacy and benefits
- Health and retirement plans
- Grant writing support 💼
- Access to studios and galleries
Student Life and Perspectives at Maine College of Art & Design
Student life at Maine College of Art & Design is immersive, with programs in fine arts leading to careers in design and education. Use Rate My Professor for professor selection. Resources include career services and internships in Portland.
Perspectives highlight creative freedom and community ties.

