The University of Michigan - Dearborn (UM-Dearborn) stands as a dynamic public university in the heart of Dearborn, Michigan, offering a wealth of career opportunities in higher education. As part of the renowned University of Michigan system, UM-Dearborn provides jobs that blend teaching, research, and service in a supportive environment. Whether you're eyeing faculty positions, research roles, or administrative jobs, this institution emphasizes innovation, community engagement, and student success. Located in a suburb of Detroit, it attracts professionals passionate about engineering, business, and liberal arts.
Jobs at University of Michigan - Dearborn span various categories, from tenure-track professors to adjunct instructors and staff positions. The university's commitment to accessibility makes it an ideal spot for those starting or advancing in higher ed jobs. With around 9,000 students, the campus fosters a close-knit community where employees contribute directly to educational excellence.
Established in 1959 as a regional campus of the University of Michigan, UM-Dearborn has grown into a key player in Michigan's higher education landscape. Initially focused on serving the local Dearborn community and auto industry workers, it evolved to offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Today, it boasts strengths in engineering and computer science, reflecting Dearborn's industrial heritage near Ford Motor Company headquarters.
The campus spans 196 acres along the Rouge River, providing a modern setting for academic pursuits. UM-Dearborn's history underscores its role in workforce development, with jobs often tied to regional needs like advanced manufacturing and sustainability studies. Employees benefit from affiliation with the larger UM network, accessing resources from Ann Arbor while enjoying a smaller, student-centered environment.
UM-Dearborn's College of Engineering and Computer Science is a hub for jobs in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science. The College of Arts, Sciences, Letters, and Social Sciences hires for liberal arts and education roles. Business and education departments seek faculty with practical experience.
Explore university job types for detailed breakdowns of faculty, staff, and research positions available here.
To understand jobs at University of Michigan - Dearborn, key terms include:
For faculty jobs at University of Michigan - Dearborn, a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in the relevant field is standard for tenure-track and full-time roles. A master's degree suffices for some lecturer or adjunct positions. Administrative jobs may require advanced degrees like an EdD (Doctor of Education) or MBA (Master of Business Administration).
Teaching credentials are essential for education roles, including Michigan teaching certification. Research positions demand specialized knowledge, such as in data science for computer science jobs.
UM-Dearborn prioritizes research in sustainable engineering, AI, cybersecurity, and environmental science. Expertise in interdisciplinary areas like human-centered computing or urban sustainability aligns with Dearborn's location advantages. Faculty jobs emphasize grant-funded projects, often with partners like Ford or NASA.
Research assistants contribute to labs studying autonomous vehicles or renewable energy, leveraging Michigan's auto industry ties.
Preferred candidates have peer-reviewed publications, grant experience (e.g., NSF funding), and teaching portfolios. Industry experience is valued in engineering and business. For postdocs, prior postdoctoral work or conference presentations boost chances. Learn more via postdoctoral success tips.
Key skills include strong communication for teaching, data analysis tools like MATLAB or Python for research, and leadership for admin roles. Competencies like cultural competence and adaptability are crucial in Michigan's diverse region. Soft skills such as collaboration shine in team-based projects.
Apply through UM-Dearborn's careers site or platforms like university jobs on AcademicJobs.com. Submit a tailored CV, cover letter highlighting fit with UM-Dearborn's mission, teaching statement, research plan, and three references.
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UM-Dearborn advances diversity via the Inclusive Community Initiative, targeting underrepresented groups in STEM. Programs include the Women in Engineering mentorship and Latinx Faculty Network. Hiring practices promote equity, with training on bias reduction. The campus hosts cultural events celebrating Dearborn's Arab-American community.
UM-Dearborn supports work-life balance with flexible scheduling, parental leave, and on-site childcare. The campus features recreational facilities, walking trails along the Rouge River, and proximity to Detroit's cultural scene. Employees enjoy professional development, wellness programs, and tuition remission. Suburban Dearborn offers affordable housing and family amenities, ideal for Michigan professionals.
Jobs at University of Michigan - Dearborn offer rewarding paths in a vibrant academic setting. Explore more higher ed jobs, get career advice from higher ed career advice, browse university jobs, or post a job to attract talent.
