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The University of Maine System (UMS) stands as a cornerstone of higher education in Maine, offering a diverse array of jobs that span faculty positions, research roles, administrative opportunities, and support staff positions. Encompassing seven public universities across the state, including the University of Southern Maine in Portland, UMS jobs attract professionals passionate about education, innovation, and community impact. Whether you're seeking tenure-track faculty jobs, postdoctoral research positions, or leadership roles in administration, the system provides pathways to meaningful careers in a supportive environment.
Jobs at University of Maine (System) are particularly appealing due to the system's land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant status, which emphasizes practical research tied to Maine's natural resources, economy, and challenges like climate resilience. With over 30,000 students served annually and a strong commitment to accessibility, these positions often involve teaching, groundbreaking research, and public service. Salaries are competitive for public institutions, with assistant professors typically starting at $70,000-$90,000, scaling up based on experience and rank.
In Portland, the University of Southern Maine (USM) campus hosts many urban-focused roles in business, law, and health sciences, blending city vibrancy with academic rigor. For a broader look at university job types, positions here mirror national trends but with a regional flavor.
Established in 1968 through legislative consolidation, the University of Maine System evolved from the original University of Maine founded in 1865 as a land-grant college under the Morrill Act. This historical foundation—a land-grant university (an institution dedicated to providing practical education in agriculture, science, and engineering to benefit the public good)—shapes its mission today. The system now includes the flagship University of Maine at Orono, USM in Portland and Gorham, and five other regional campuses: Augusta, Farmington, Fort Kent, Machias, and Presque Isle.
The mission centers on delivering high-quality undergraduate and graduate education, advancing knowledge through research, and fostering economic development in Maine. Jobs at University of Maine (System) contribute to this by supporting initiatives in sustainable forestry, marine biotechnology, and engineering innovation. For instance, the Advanced Structures and Composites Center at Orono leads global research in composites, creating specialized research jobs.
This rich history means employment here connects you to over 150 years of academic excellence, with opportunities to shape future generations amid Maine's stunning landscapes.
Careers at the University of Maine System vary widely. Faculty jobs dominate, including lecturers, assistant/associate/full professors in disciplines like biology, engineering, education, and social sciences. Research positions, such as research assistants or principal investigators, thrive in centers focused on climate science and aquaculture. Administrative roles cover deans, department chairs, HR specialists, and IT support, while staff positions include lab technicians and student services coordinators.
At USM in Portland, expect more emphasis on professional programs like nursing and public policy. Postdoctoral jobs are plentiful in federally funded projects, often requiring expertise in data modeling or field ecology. Explore higher ed faculty jobs or research jobs for similar opportunities. For lecturers aiming to advance, resources like become a university lecturer provide guidance.
To fully understand jobs at University of Maine (System), key terms include:
For faculty jobs at University of Maine (System), a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy, the highest academic degree signifying original research contribution) in the relevant field is standard. Terminal degrees like EdD for education or MFA for arts may suffice elsewhere. Research assistants need a master's or bachelor's with strong lab skills.
Research focus aligns with strengths: climate change at the Climate Change Institute, marine sciences via sea-grant programs, forestry, engineering, and health disparities. Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications (3-5 for assistant professor), grant funding (e.g., NSF or NIH), and teaching diverse students. Skills and competencies encompass interdisciplinary collaboration, grant writing, data analysis software (R, Python), fieldwork endurance, and communication for extension services.
| Role Type | Key Qualifications | Preferred Skills |
|---|---|---|
| Faculty | PhD, publications | Teaching, grants |
| Postdoc | Recent PhD | Data analysis, lab work |
| Research Asst | MS/BS | Fieldwork, stats |
| Admin | Relevant degree | Leadership, budgeting |
These ensure hires advance UMS's mission effectively.
The application process starts at the UMS careers site (maine.edu/human-resources), where postings detail requirements. Submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, references, and diversity statement. Interviews may include teaching demos or research seminars.
Actionable advice: Quantify achievements (e.g., "Secured $500K grant"), address equity in statements. Download our free resume template.
UMS prioritizes equity via the System Diversity Action Plan, targeting underrepresented faculty hires. Examples: President's Diversity Fund awards $1M+ for initiatives; USM's Mosaic Center supports LGBTQ+ students/staff; partnerships with tribal nations for Native American inclusion; bias training for search committees. In 2023, 25% of new hires were from diverse backgrounds, exceeding goals. These foster inclusive campuses where all thrive.
UMS promotes balance with flexible scheduling, generous leave (20+ vacation days), EAP counseling, and childcare subsidies. Portland's USM offers urban perks: proximity to Casco Bay for kayaking, vibrant arts scene, proximity to Boston. Orono features woods trails, ski areas. Wellness includes gyms, yoga, mental health days. Faculty often enjoy sabbaticals every 7 years. Community events like lobster bakes build camaraderie. Maine's four seasons inspire outdoor jobs blending work and nature.
Professional development abounds: workshops, tuition waivers for employees/dependents, sabbaticals. Benefits include health insurance, retirement matching (15%), and research funding support. Advancement via tenure/promotion committees rewards excellence. Explore higher ed career advice for growth strategies.
Jobs at University of Maine (System) offer rewarding paths in a collaborative, impactful setting. From Portland's dynamic USM to Orono's research hubs, find roles suiting your expertise. Ready to apply? Browse higher ed jobs, university jobs, or career advice. Institutions can post a job to reach top talent.
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