Oregon State University (OSU), located in Corvallis, Oregon, is a premier public research institution renowned for its contributions to forestry, engineering, marine sciences, and sustainable agriculture. As a land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant university, OSU offers a diverse array of jobs that attract professionals passionate about higher education. Whether you're seeking faculty positions, research roles, or administrative opportunities, OSU provides a dynamic environment for career growth in academia.
With over 36,000 students across its Corvallis campus, Cascades campus in Bend, and Ecampus online programs, OSU employs thousands in roles that support teaching, research, and community engagement. Jobs at Oregon State University emphasize innovation, with strong support for interdisciplinary work and real-world impact. The university's commitment to excellence makes it a top destination for those pursuing higher ed jobs.
Founded in 1868 as Corvallis College, OSU became Oregon's land-grant university in 1888, focusing on agriculture and mechanical arts. Over the decades, it expanded into a comprehensive research powerhouse, earning Carnegie R1 status for very high research activity. This history shapes its job landscape, prioritizing roles in STEM fields where OSU leads nationally, such as in forestry (home to the College of Forestry, one of the oldest in the U.S.) and oceanography through the Hatfield Marine Science Center.
Today, OSU's evolution reflects in its job offerings, from pioneering sustainable energy research to online education expansion. The university has produced notable alumni like Linus Pauling, a two-time Nobel laureate, highlighting the caliber of opportunities for faculty and researchers.
OSU features a variety of positions tailored to different career stages. Tenure-track faculty roles in departments like Electrical and Computer Engineering or Biological and Ecological Engineering require expertise in cutting-edge research. Adjunct professor jobs offer flexible teaching, while research jobs abound in labs studying climate change and biotechnology.
Staff positions include HR, IT, and facilities management, with administrative jobs in student services and development. Postdoctoral positions are common in sciences, and lecturer jobs focus on instruction. For a full breakdown, explore university job types. OSU also lists higher ed postdoc jobs and adjunct professor jobs.
Jobs at Oregon State University demand rigorous qualifications. Faculty typically need a PhD in the relevant field, such as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Environmental Sciences for sustainability roles. Research focus should align with OSU priorities like renewable energy or marine ecosystems.
Administrative roles may require a Master's in Higher Education Administration and experience in student affairs. Check administration jobs for specifics.
To help understand jobs at Oregon State University, here are key terms:
The application process for jobs at Oregon State University starts at the official careers site. Submit a CV, cover letter, teaching statement, research statement, and three references. Review postings for department-specific requirements.
Read how to write a winning academic CV for success. For lecturer paths, see become a university lecturer.
OSU prioritizes diversity through the Office of Institutional Equity and Inclusion. Key initiatives include the Amplify program recruiting underrepresented faculty, NSF ADVANCE grants boosting women in STEM, and the President's Commission on the Status of Women. The university aims for 15% underrepresented minority faculty by 2025. Support for LGBTQ+ via Q Center and veteran hiring programs. Explore diversity efforts in higher ed.
Corvallis, nestled in the Willamette Valley, offers stunning natural beauty with hiking in the Cascades and coastal access. OSU supports work-life with flexible scheduling, parental leave, on-site childcare, and wellness centers. Employee benefits include health insurance, retirement matching, and tuition remission. Campus life features vibrant arts, sports (Beavers athletics), and community events. Faculty enjoy sabbaticals and professional development. It's ideal for families, with low cost of living and outdoor focus.
Ready to pursue jobs at Oregon State University? Browse higher ed jobs, get career advice from higher ed career advice, search university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. OSU's employer branding shines; learn secrets at employer branding secrets. For research paths, check postdoctoral success.
