The University of Wisconsin - Stout (UWS), located in Menomonie, Wisconsin, stands as a premier polytechnic institution within the University of Wisconsin System. Established in 1891, it has evolved from the Stout Manual Training School into a Carnegie-classified R2 research university emphasizing applied learning. With approximately 7,500 students, UWS offers over 50 undergraduate majors and 25 graduate programs in fields like business, design, education, human development and family studies, and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Its career-focused approach integrates real-world projects, internships, and co-ops, preparing graduates—and potential employees—for industry demands.
Jobs at University of Wisconsin - Stout attract professionals passionate about hands-on education. Faculty and staff contribute to a dynamic environment where theory meets practice, fostering innovation in areas such as sustainable packaging, user experience design, and supply chain management. The campus spans 124 acres along the Red Cedar River, providing a picturesque setting in the United States' Midwest.
Founded by James Huff Stout as a manual training school to teach practical skills amid the Industrial Revolution, UWS pioneered vocational education. By 1906, it became Stout Institute, and in 1955, joined the UW System. Today, its mission centers on applied learning, making it a hub for jobs that blend academia with professional practice. This legacy influences hiring, prioritizing candidates with industry experience who can bridge classroom and workplace.
For those eyeing jobs at University of Wisconsin - Stout, understanding this polytechnic model—defined as education integrating theory, practice, and real-world application—is key. It shapes roles from lab instructors to program directors, emphasizing outcomes like 99% employment rates for graduates.
Diverse opportunities abound at UWS, including tenure-track faculty, lecturers, administrators, researchers, and support staff. Common roles span colleges like the College of Science, Engineering and Technology (e.g., engineering professors) and the College of Design (e.g., graphic designers). Research positions focus on applied projects, while administrative jobs handle student services or career development.
Faculty jobs often require teaching loads of 12-16 credits per semester, plus advising and scholarship. For a full breakdown of university job types, explore our dedicated resource. Menomonie-based positions leverage local industry ties, like packaging firms in the region.
Polytechnic University: An institution focused on practical, career-oriented education combining rigorous academics with professional training, unlike traditional liberal arts colleges.
Applied Learning: Hands-on methodology where students engage in projects, internships, and co-ops to apply knowledge directly, a cornerstone at UWS.
Tenure-Track Position: Academic role leading to permanent employment after probationary review based on teaching, research, and service.
Jobs at University of Wisconsin - Stout demand specific credentials. Faculty typically need a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant field, such as a Doctor of Design (D.Des.) for design roles. Research focus aligns with UWS strengths: sustainability (e.g., biofuels research), digital fabrication, and workforce development.
Preferred experience includes 3-5 years in industry or academia, peer-reviewed publications (aim for 5+ for associate level), and grant funding (e.g., NSF awards). Skills and competencies emphasize:
Entry-level research assistant jobs may require a master's and lab experience. Check research assistant jobs for similar opportunities.
To apply for jobs at University of Wisconsin - Stout, visit the UW System careers portal or sites like higher ed jobs on AcademicJobs.com. Submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, and references online. Interviews often include teaching demos and research presentations.
Actionable tips:
Background checks and references are standard.
UWS commits to inclusive excellence via the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Council, launching in 2020. Initiatives include bias training, recruitment pipelines for underrepresented faculty (e.g., ADVANCE grants), and the Multicultural Student Services Center. In 2023, 25% of new hires were from diverse backgrounds, surpassing state averages. Programs like Women in STEM support gender equity, while partnerships with tribal nations address Native American representation. These efforts create welcoming environments for jobs at University of Wisconsin - Stout.
Work-life balance at UWS benefits from generous PTO (22 days vacation), parental leave (12 weeks), and EAP counseling. Flexible work policies post-COVID allow hybrid for some admin roles. Sabbaticals every 7 years aid rejuvenation.
Campus life in Menomonie thrives with 200+ student organizations, NCAA Division III athletics (Blue Devils), and events like Innovation Week. Affordable housing ($1,200/month average), proximity to Eau Claire (30 minutes), and outdoor perks—hiking at Lake Menomin, skiing at Trollhaugen—enhance appeal. Family-friendly with top-rated schools, it's ideal for long-term careers. Explore employer branding secrets for similar institutions.
UWS offers competitive salaries (UW System averages $80K for assistant profs), strong benefits (health, retirement), and growth via promotions. Its #1 Midwest polytechnic ranking (U.S. News 2024) signals prestige. For faculty, research funding exceeds $5M annually; staff enjoy professional development stipends.
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