Widener University, located in Chester, Pennsylvania, just outside Philadelphia, is a private institution offering a wide array of academic and professional opportunities. Founded in 1821 as the Woodlawn Academy for Young Ladies, it evolved into a comprehensive university named after the Widener family in 1972 following a major philanthropic gift. Today, it serves around 5,300 students across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, with strengths in engineering, nursing, business, hospitality management, education, and professional schools like physical therapy and law. Jobs at Widener University span faculty, staff, and administrative roles, attracting professionals passionate about higher education in a suburban setting with urban access.
The university's main campus in Chester provides a close-knit community, while the Wilmington campus focuses on graduate and professional studies. Positions here contribute to innovative teaching, cutting-edge research, and community engagement, particularly in health sciences and engineering where Widener ranks highly regionally.
Widener University's rich history shapes its job landscape. From its origins as a women's academy, it became coeducational in 1849 and expanded significantly in the 20th century. Key milestones include establishing the School of Engineering in 1955 and the Institute for Physical Therapy Education, now one of the top-ranked programs nationally. This legacy influences hiring, prioritizing candidates who align with Widener's commitment to practical, hands-on learning and professional preparation.
Academic jobs at Widener University emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration. Faculty often engage in real-world projects, such as biomedical engineering research or clinical partnerships in nursing, making roles dynamic and impactful.
Widener University recruits for diverse roles. Tenure-track professors lead departments, adjunct professors teach part-time courses, and research faculty drive innovation. Administrative positions in student services, HR, and executive leadership support operations. For more on university job types, explore common categories like lecturer jobs or professor jobs.
Current openings reflect needs in growing programs like cybersecurity and sustainable engineering.
To understand jobs at Widener University, key terms include:
Jobs at Widener University demand rigorous qualifications. Faculty roles generally require a PhD or terminal degree in the relevant field, such as Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) for health sciences or JD for law positions. Research focus varies by school: engineering emphasizes robotics and materials science, nursing prioritizes clinical practice and patient outcomes, and business centers on entrepreneurship.
Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications, grant funding from NSF or NIH, and teaching at accredited institutions. Skills like data analysis, grant writing, and curriculum development are essential. Competencies encompass strong communication, mentorship, and adaptability in diverse classrooms. For research roles, expertise in lab techniques or statistical software is valued.
The application process for jobs at Widener University starts with online submission through their careers site, including a cover letter, CV, teaching philosophy, and research statement. References and transcripts follow for shortlisted candidates. Interviews may involve teaching demos or research presentations.
Aim for concise documents; committees review hundreds. Proofread meticulously.
Widener University champions diversity through the Office of Student Engagement and Diversity, hosting events like Cultural Competency Workshops. The Pride Center supports LGBTQ+ community, while the Women's Resource Center aids gender equity. Hiring practices include bias training and diverse search committees. Examples: partnerships with HBCUs for faculty exchanges and scholarships for underrepresented students, fostering inclusive workplaces.
In Chester, Pennsylvania, Widener's campus blends suburban calm with Philadelphia proximity. Employees enjoy wellness centers, gym access, and EAP for mental health. Flexible hours, remote options for some roles, and tuition remission for dependents promote balance. Campus life features Pride Week, family events, and proximity to Philly's cultural scene. Faculty report collaborative culture with low burnout due to supportive leadership.
Jobs at Widener University offer rewarding paths in a dynamic higher ed environment. From faculty to admin, opportunities abound for qualified professionals. Explore more at higher ed jobs, career advice via higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. Employer branding secrets from this guide can help attract top talent.
