Youngstown State University (YSU), located in Youngstown, Ohio, stands as a cornerstone of higher education in the Mahoning Valley. Established in 1908 as a branch of the Ohio State University Extension Center, it evolved into an independent four-year institution by 1921 and gained full university status in 1967. Today, YSU serves over 11,000 students across six colleges, offering more than 180 undergraduate and graduate programs. Jobs at Youngstown State University attract professionals passionate about teaching, research, and community impact, particularly in fields like engineering, business, health sciences, and education.
The university's commitment to accessible education and regional development creates diverse career paths. Faculty positions often involve balancing teaching loads with research, while administrative roles support student success and operations. In Youngstown, a city known for its industrial heritage and revitalization efforts, YSU employees contribute to economic growth through initiatives like workforce training programs.
To fully understand jobs at Youngstown State University, it's essential to define core terms. A tenure-track position refers to a faculty role leading to permanent employment after a probationary period, typically involving research, teaching, and service. Adjunct faculty are part-time instructors hired per course, offering flexibility but often without benefits. Postdoctoral researcher (postdoc) is a temporary role for recent PhD graduates to gain advanced experience. Administrative staff handle non-teaching duties like admissions or student services. These roles form the backbone of university operations, ensuring academic excellence and support services.
Jobs at Youngstown State University demand specific credentials tailored to the role. For tenure-track faculty in academic departments, a PhD in the relevant field is standard, such as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Mechanical Engineering for the College of Engineering and Computer Science. Master's degrees suffice for lecturer or adjunct positions, particularly in professional programs like nursing or business administration.
Administrative roles vary: a bachelor's degree with experience qualifies entry-level staff, while senior positions like dean require advanced degrees and leadership history. Research-focused jobs, such as in the STEM Research Institute, prioritize PhDs with lab expertise. YSU values Ohio teaching licensure for education roles, aligning with state standards.
YSU emphasizes applied research addressing regional needs. Expertise in sustainable engineering, health disparities, or criminal justice is prized, given strengths in the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services and the Criminal Justice Sciences department. Faculty often secure grants from the National Science Foundation or Ohio Department of Higher Education. For instance, projects on advanced manufacturing leverage Youngstown's manufacturing legacy. Candidates should demonstrate interdisciplinary skills, like combining data analytics with public health.
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The application process begins on the YSU Human Resources careers portal. Submit a tailored cover letter, curriculum vitae (CV), teaching philosophy statement, and three references. Research the department via the YSU website to align your materials.
Utilize free resources like our free resume template and free cover letter template. For academic CVs, see how to write a winning academic CV.
YSU prioritizes diversity through the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI), which coordinates training, bias workshops, and affinity groups. The Inclusive Excellence Action Plan promotes underrepresented faculty hiring, with successes like increased women in STEM. Events such as Black History Month celebrations and Pride Week foster belonging. YSU partners with organizations like the Ohio Commission on African American Males for targeted recruitment, creating an equitable workplace reflective of its diverse student body, which includes 25% underrepresented minorities.
YSU supports work-life balance with flexible scheduling, generous PTO, and family leave policies. The campus features a wellness center, gym, and counseling services. Employees enjoy tuition discounts for dependents and professional development funds. In Youngstown, low living costs (median home $120,000) and proximity to Cleveland (70 miles) offer urban access without high expenses. Campus life includes Penguins athletics, cultural events at the DeYor Performing Arts Center, and community festivals, blending professional growth with personal fulfillment.
YSU offers varied roles across university job types. Faculty includes professors in arts, sciences, and professional schools. Research jobs suit postdocs and assistants, especially in health and engineering. Administrative positions cover HR, admissions, and executive leadership. Community college-like programs attract adjuncts. Check higher ed faculty jobs, administration jobs, and research assistant jobs for listings.
In Ohio, YSU competes with regional peers, offering competitive salaries amid national trends from the global jobs report.
With a student-faculty ratio of 17:1 and focus on experiential learning, YSU provides meaningful impact. Recent hires have advanced initiatives like cybersecurity centers and nursing expansions. For career advice, visit higher ed career advice. Ready to apply? Browse higher ed jobs, university jobs, or post a job if recruiting.
