Utah Valley University (UVU), located in Orem, Utah, is one of the largest universities in the United States with an enrollment exceeding 40,000 students. Established in 1941 as the Central Utah Vocational School, it evolved through several name changes and expansions, becoming a university in 2008. Situated in the heart of Utah Valley, just minutes from Provo and the Wasatch Mountains, UVU offers a picturesque campus environment that combines urban accessibility with natural beauty. The institution emphasizes applied learning, hands-on education, and career preparation, making it a hub for practical, job-ready graduates.
As a public university within the Utah System of Higher Education, UVU provides associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across seven colleges, including business, education, engineering, health, humanities, science, and technology. This focus on real-world skills translates to a dynamic job market for faculty, staff, and administrators who contribute to its mission of student-centered learning.
Jobs at Utah Valley University span faculty, administrative, and support roles, catering to a variety of professionals in higher education. Tenure-track faculty positions are available in disciplines like nursing, computer science, and accounting, where instructors engage in teaching, research, and service. Adjunct professors fill part-time teaching needs, offering flexibility for those balancing multiple commitments. Administrative jobs include roles in student services, HR, and IT, while research positions support innovative projects in areas like aviation and digital media.
For a comprehensive look at types of positions available at universities like UVU, explore our guide. Current openings often emphasize UVU's commitment to applied research and community engagement, with opportunities in growing fields such as cybersecurity and healthcare.
To help understand key terms related to jobs at Utah Valley University:
📊 For faculty jobs at Utah Valley University, a PhD or terminal degree (e.g., EdD for education roles, DMA for music) in the relevant field is typically required for tenure-track positions. Master's degrees are sufficient for adjunct or lecturer roles. Research focus varies by department; for example, the College of Science and Health prioritizes applied research in biotechnology and public health, while engineering emphasizes innovation in manufacturing and software development.
Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications, grant funding, and teaching at the college level. For administrative roles, a bachelor's or master's in higher education administration, plus 3-5 years in leadership, is common. Skills and competencies sought include:
Research assistants need lab or field experience; clinical research jobs require certifications like CITI training. UVU values candidates with industry experience for its career-oriented programs.
The application process for jobs at UVU begins with checking the university's careers page or platforms like higher ed jobs listings on AcademicJobs.com. Submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, and references online. Interviews often include teaching demonstrations and panel discussions.
Actionable tips:
For lecturer jobs, emphasize teaching philosophy. Learn how to write a winning academic CV to stand out.
🌍 UVU is committed to diversity through its Office of Equity and Inclusion, which oversees hiring practices to increase representation. Initiatives include the Diversity Leadership Council, mentorship for underrepresented faculty, and partnerships with organizations like the Utah Alliance of Black Legislators. The university tracks demographics, aiming for hires reflecting its student body's diversity (Hispanic/Latino students ~20%, international ~5%). Programs like Inclusive Excellence workshops train staff, fostering an welcoming environment in Orem's growing multicultural community.
UVU promotes work-life balance with flexible scheduling, parental leave, and employee wellness programs including gym access and mental health resources. The Orem campus features modern facilities, trails for hiking, and proximity to Utah Lake for recreation. Faculty enjoy a 4/4 teaching load with sabbaticals, while staff benefit from 14 paid holidays and tuition waivers. Utah's low cost of living, family-friendly culture, and outdoor lifestyle (skiing at nearby resorts) enhance quality of life. Events like Wolverine Wednesday foster community, making UVU a supportive place for long-term careers.
With rapid growth and regional impact, UVU offers stable careers in a supportive setting. Proximity to tech hubs like Silicon Slopes provides collaboration opportunities. Check university jobs or faculty jobs for openings.
In summary, jobs at Utah Valley University provide meaningful roles in a thriving institution. Explore higher ed jobs, get higher ed career advice, search university jobs, or post a job if recruiting.