Seattle Pacific University (SPU), located in the heart of Seattle, Washington, is a private Christian university founded in 1891. Originally established as Seattle Seminary by the Free Methodist Church, it evolved into a comprehensive institution offering over 70 undergraduate majors and numerous graduate programs. Nestled near Queen Anne Hill with views of Puget Sound, SPU combines urban accessibility with a close-knit campus community of about 3,500 students. The university emphasizes integrating faith and learning, fostering whole-person development through rigorous academics and spiritual growth.
Jobs at Seattle Pacific University span faculty, staff, and administrative roles, attracting professionals passionate about Christian higher education. Whether you're seeking higher ed faculty jobs or support positions, SPU provides opportunities to contribute to its mission of preparing leaders for service.
SPU's schools, such as the School of Business, Government, and Economics; School of Education; School of Health Sciences; and School of Theology, frequently post openings. For instance, the nursing program, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, hires clinical faculty to train students in evidence-based practice. Business roles focus on ethical leadership, while education positions emphasize innovative pedagogy.
Faculty jobs often involve teaching 12-15 credits per semester, advising students, and conducting research aligned with SPU's values. Recent hires include experts in data science and counseling psychology, reflecting growing programs in STEM and mental health.
Common positions include tenure-track professors, lecturers, adjuncts, research associates, and administrators in admissions or student life. Tenure-track roles require scholarly productivity, like peer-reviewed publications, while lecturers prioritize teaching excellence. For a full list, visit university job types.
Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to permanent employment after a probationary period, typically 5-7 years, involving research, teaching, and service.
Adjunct professor: Part-time instructor hired per course, without benefits or tenure path, common for flexible academic careers.
Faith statement: A personal document required at faith-based institutions like SPU, articulating one's beliefs and commitment to Christian education.
Most faculty jobs at Seattle Pacific University demand a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant field, such as EdD for education roles or DNP for nursing. Research focus varies: theology emphasizes biblical studies, sciences integrate creation care, and business prioritizes sustainable practices.
Preferred experience includes 3+ years teaching undergraduates, peer-reviewed publications (e.g., 5+ articles), and securing grants from bodies like the National Science Foundation. Skills and competencies encompass strong communication, curriculum development, mentorship, and cultural sensitivity. Proficiency in tools like Canvas LMS or data analysis software (R, SPSS) is valued. For lecturers, a master's suffices with proven classroom success.
| Role Type | Min Qualification | Key Skills |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | PhD | Research, grant writing |
| Lecturer | Master's | Teaching, advising |
| Research Assistant | Bachelor's/Master's | Lab work, data analysis |
To apply for jobs at Seattle Pacific University, visit their careers page at spu.edu/careers. Submit a tailored CV, cover letter (1-2 pages), faith statement, teaching philosophy, and three references. Applications are reviewed year-round, but faculty searches peak in fall.
Pro tip: Reference SPU's strategic plan, emphasizing equity and innovation, to show alignment.
Seattle Pacific University actively promotes diversity through the Center for Diversity and Inclusion, offering workshops on unconscious bias and cultural competency. They participate in the Washington State Diversity Hiring Consortium and provide scholarships like the Ethnic Minority Scholarship. Recent efforts include hiring diverse faculty (30% underrepresented minorities in new roles) and inclusive curriculum reviews. Employee resource groups support LGBTQ+ allies and international staff, fostering a welcoming environment amid Seattle's multicultural fabric.
SPU supports work-life balance with flexible scheduling, generous parental leave (12 weeks paid), and an Employee Assistance Program for counseling. Sabbaticals every 6 years allow research recharge. Campus life buzzes with weekly chapels, intramural sports, coffee shops, and hikes in nearby Discovery Park. Proximity to Pike Place Market and tech hubs like Amazon offers off-campus perks. Faculty enjoy tuition remission (up to 18 credits/year for dependents) and wellness stipends. The supportive community, rooted in prayer groups and mentorship, reduces burnout common in academia.
In Seattle's dynamic higher ed scene, SPU stands out for its faith-infused approach, competitive salaries (average faculty $85,000), and growth opportunities. With expansions in online programs and research centers, roles evolve. Explore employer branding secrets or become a university lecturer for career insights.
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