Salaries at PLU

At Pacific Lutheran University (PLU), located in Tacoma, Washington, salary expectations for faculty and staff are determined by several key factors, including role, academic rank, years of experience, and field of expertise. Salaries often vary between academic disciplines, with fields like business and STEM typically commanding higher compensation due to market demand. Administrative roles are influenced by the level of responsibility and scope of duties. While PLU does not publicly publish detailed salary bands or specific compensation data for all positions, some information may be accessible through state or federal reporting for public institutions or through aggregated data in higher education salary surveys.

• Assistant Professor: Typical salary range is $55,000–$65,000 USD annually, depending on the department and prior experience. Entry-level roles may start lower, with potential increases based on tenure track progression.
• Associate Professor: Average salary range is $65,000–$80,000 USD per year, often reflecting mid-career status, research output, and teaching responsibilities. Additional funding may be available for research or grants.
• Full Professor: Salaries typically range from $80,000–$100,000+ USD annually, with higher earnings for senior faculty with significant publications or leadership roles within the university.
• Administrative Staff (e.g., Academic Advisor): Salaries generally fall between $40,000–$55,000 USD per year, varying by experience and specific job scope. Bonuses or additional benefits may apply for certain roles.
• Department Chair: Compensation often ranges from $85,000–$110,000 USD annually, reflecting added administrative duties alongside teaching or research obligations.

Salaries at Pacific Lutheran University are generally competitive within the context of small, private liberal arts institutions in the Pacific Northwest, though they may not match those at larger research universities or public institutions with state-backed funding. Progression in compensation is often tied to tenure, promotions in rank, and contributions to the university’s mission. For prospective employees, it’s worth noting that while exact figures are not always publicly disclosed, salary benchmarks for higher education roles in Washington state can provide a useful reference point. Overall, PLU strives to balance fair compensation with its commitment to a values-driven educational environment.