Working at NDUS, your next career step!

🎓 Overview of Jobs at North Dakota University System

The North Dakota University System (NDUS) is a statewide network of public higher education institutions headquartered in Bismarck, North Dakota, United States. Established in 1990, NDUS coordinates 11 colleges and universities, including two doctoral/research universities: the University of North Dakota (UND) in Grand Forks and North Dakota State University (NDSU) in Fargo. Other members include Dickinson State University, six state colleges focused on technical and vocational training, and two tribally controlled community colleges. This structure allows NDUS to serve over 36,000 students annually, offering jobs at North Dakota University System across teaching, research, administration, and support roles.

Jobs at North Dakota University System attract professionals passionate about education in a region known for its energy sector, agriculture, and aviation industries. With a focus on student success and community impact, NDUS employs thousands in positions that contribute to North Dakota's economic growth. Whether you're seeking faculty jobs, research assistant roles, or administrative positions, opportunities span urban campuses like Fargo and rural settings, providing variety for career seekers.

NDUS emphasizes innovation, with initiatives in online learning and workforce development. For those exploring higher education careers, platforms like higher ed jobs list current openings tailored to academic professionals.

📜 History and Structure of NDUS

Formed by the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education in 1990, NDUS consolidated oversight of public postsecondary institutions to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. Prior to this, institutions operated more independently, but unification allowed for shared resources, standardized policies, and collaborative programs. Today, the system is governed from Bismarck, with Chancellor Mark Hagerott leading strategic directions like the "Building North Dakota's Future" plan, which prioritizes STEM education and rural access.

The system's diversity includes research-intensive universities (UND and NDSU, Carnegie-classified R2 institutions), regional universities, and community colleges. This setup creates a broad spectrum of jobs at North Dakota University System, from cutting-edge research in bioengineering at NDSU to aviation training at UND, the only FAA-approved collegiate aviation program in the region.

🔑 Definitions

Understanding key terms helps navigate jobs at North Dakota University System:

• Chancellor: The chief executive officer of NDUS, overseeing all institutions and policy implementation.
• State Board of Higher Education (SBHE): The governing body appointing the chancellor and setting system-wide policies.
• Performance Funding: A NDUS model allocating resources based on metrics like graduation rates and workforce alignment.
• Tribally Controlled Community College (TCCC): Institutions like United Tribes Technical College, serving Native American students with culturally relevant programs.

📊 Required Academic Qualifications for NDUS Jobs

For faculty positions at North Dakota University System, a doctoral degree (PhD, EdD, or equivalent terminal degree) in the relevant discipline is standard. For example, a biology professor role at UND requires a PhD in biological sciences. Master's degrees suffice for lecturers or instructors, especially in technical colleges like Bismarck State College.

Administrative roles, such as deans or directors, often demand advanced degrees plus leadership experience. Research jobs at North Dakota University System, like postdoctoral fellows, need a recent PhD with specialized training. Entry-level positions, including academic advisors, may require a bachelor's degree and relevant certifications.

🔬 Research Focus and Expertise Needed

NDUS prioritizes applied research addressing regional needs. Key areas include:

• Agriculture and biosciences at NDSU, with centers like the North Central Research Extension Center.
• Aerospace and energy at UND, home to the Energy & Environmental Research Center.
• Health sciences across campuses, including nursing and public health programs.
• Engineering and technology, supporting North Dakota's oil and wind energy sectors.

Candidates for research jobs at North Dakota University System should demonstrate expertise via prior projects or publications in these fields.

⭐ Preferred Experience and Skills

Employers value:

• Peer-reviewed publications and grant funding (e.g., NSF or USDA grants).
• Teaching experience, ideally with student evaluations above 4.0/5.0.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration, given NDUS's system-wide initiatives.

Essential skills include strong communication, data analysis proficiency (e.g., R, Python for researchers), and cultural competency for diverse student bodies. For administrative jobs at North Dakota University System, experience with accreditation (e.g., Higher Learning Commission) is advantageous.

📋 Application Process and Tips

To apply for jobs at North Dakota University System:

1. Visit the NDUS careers portal or individual campus sites like university jobs listings.
2. Prepare a tailored CV, cover letter, and teaching philosophy statement. Use our free cover letter template.
3. Submit references and transcripts; highlight ND-specific impacts.
4. Prepare for interviews focusing on teaching demos and research plans.

Tip: Network via NDUS events or LinkedIn. Customize applications to align with strategic plans. For adjunct professor jobs at North Dakota University System, emphasize flexibility and local ties. Review how to excel as a research assistant for adaptable advice.

🌈 Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

NDUS commits to equity through the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) framework. Examples include:

• The Native American Achievement Council, supporting Indigenous faculty and students.
• Women and Minorities in STEM programs at NDSU and UND.
• Affirmative action hiring goals, with training on bias reduction.
• Partnerships with tribal colleges for seamless transfers.

These efforts foster inclusive environments, making NDUS appealing for diverse candidates seeking jobs at North Dakota University System.

⚖️ Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

NDUS promotes balance with 24+ vacation days, health insurance, and retirement matching. Campuses offer gyms, counseling, and childcare. Bismarck's headquarters provides urban amenities, while Fargo and Grand Forks feature vibrant communities with arts, sports (e.g., UND Fighting Hawks hockey), and outdoor pursuits like hiking in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Employee wellness programs include fitness challenges and mental health days. Family-friendly policies support dual-career couples, common in academia. Living costs are low—median home $250,000—enhancing affordability for those in jobs at North Dakota University System.

💼 Types of Positions and Next Steps

Common roles include tenure-track faculty, adjuncts, postdocs, and executives. Learn more about university job types. Salaries competitive: average faculty $85,000, per AAUP data.

Ready to apply? Browse higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. NDUS offers rewarding careers shaping future leaders.

Also, explore employer branding secrets and become a university lecturer for insights.