The University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA), located in Anchorage, Alaska, is the state's largest public university and a hub for higher education in the United States' northernmost state. As part of the University of Alaska system, UAA offers a diverse array of jobs that attract professionals passionate about education, research, and community service in a unique Alaskan environment. Jobs at University of Alaska Anchorage span faculty positions, administrative roles, research assistant jobs, and support staff opportunities, all contributing to its mission of providing accessible education and advancing knowledge in arctic and circumpolar studies.
UAA serves over 15,000 students across its campuses and online programs, making it a dynamic employer with ongoing needs for talented individuals. Whether you're seeking higher ed faculty jobs or administrative positions, UAA emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and cultural responsiveness, particularly to Alaska Native communities.
Established in 1954 as Anchorage Community College, UAA evolved into a four-year institution in 1977 and became the University of Alaska Anchorage. This growth mirrored Alaska's development, with jobs expanding from teaching to research in fields like engineering, nursing, and environmental science. Today, UAA employs over 3,000 people, with a focus on roles that support its Carnegie-classified research activity status.
The university's history reflects resilience, from its role in educating post-World War II veterans to leading in disaster response training after the 1964 earthquake. Employment at UAA has always prioritized local talent while recruiting nationally for specialized research jobs.
Jobs at University of Alaska Anchorage include tenure-track faculty, lecturers, postdocs, and staff positions. Faculty roles often involve teaching, research, and service. For a full list, visit university job types. Common categories:
UAA also offers remote higher ed jobs in some areas, ideal for Alaska's remote workforce.
To understand jobs at University of Alaska Anchorage, key terms include:
For faculty jobs at UAA, a PhD or terminal degree in the relevant field is standard. For example, engineering professors need a PhD in civil or mechanical engineering. Research assistants typically hold a master's or bachelor's with experience. Administrative roles may require a bachelor's plus professional certifications.
Learn more about becoming a university lecturer.
UAA's research emphasizes Alaska-specific challenges: climate change, wildlife management, renewable energy, and health disparities in rural areas. Expertise in GIS (Geographic Information Systems), bioinformatics, or indigenous health is prized. Centers like the Alaska Center for Energy and Power seek specialists in sustainable tech.
Explore research assistant jobs or clinical research jobs.
Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications, grant funding (e.g., NSF awards), and teaching diverse students. Skills like data analysis, collaboration with tribal organizations, and cold-weather fieldwork are essential. Competencies in leadership, cultural competency, and adaptability to Alaska's environment stand out.
UAA commits to diversity through the Office of Equity and Compliance and programs like the Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program (ANSEP), which supports Native students and faculty. The university tracks hiring goals for underrepresented groups and offers training on unconscious bias. In 2023, UAA reported increased Native faculty hires, fostering inclusive campuses.
UAA promotes balance with flexible hours, parental leave, and employee wellness programs including gym access and mental health support. Campus life in Anchorage features hiking trails, northern lights viewing, and cultural events at the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Employees enjoy tuition waivers and proximity to Denali, blending professional growth with Alaskan adventures.
Apply via UAA's Workday portal: create an account, upload CV, cover letter, transcripts, and references. Tips:
Read how to write a winning academic CV for success.
UAA offers competitive salaries, state benefits, and impact in a frontier state. With Anchorage's vibrant scene and research funding rising 20% in recent years, it's ideal for ambitious academics.
In summary, jobs at University of Alaska Anchorage provide rewarding careers. Check higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post your opening at recruitment.
