Florida Atlantic University (FAU), located in Boca Raton, Florida, stands as a dynamic public research university within the State University System of Florida. Established in 1961, FAU has grown into a hub for innovation, particularly in fields like ocean engineering, biomedical science, and business. For job seekers eyeing positions in higher education, jobs at Florida Atlantic University represent exciting opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research and teaching in a coastal setting that blends academic rigor with vibrant campus life.
The university employs thousands across its multiple campuses, including the main Boca Raton site, Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute in Fort Pierce, and locations in Davie, Jupiter, and Dania Beach. Job openings span faculty roles, research positions, administrative staff, and support services. Whether you're a PhD holder seeking tenure-track jobs or an experienced administrator, FAU's commitment to growth— with over 30,000 students and annual research expenditures exceeding $57 million—makes it a prime destination. Salaries are competitive, with assistant professors averaging $90,000 and department chairs often surpassing $150,000, reflecting Florida's appeal without state income tax.
FAU prioritizes interdisciplinary collaboration, evident in initiatives like the FAU Brain Institute and the College of Engineering and Computer Science. Jobs here often involve real-world impact, such as marine research addressing climate change or health studies advancing neural therapies.
Founded as a response to post-World War II population growth in South Florida, FAU opened its doors in 1964 with just 867 students. Named after Florida's Atlantic coast location, it evolved from a regional institution to a Carnegie-classified high-research university. Key milestones include the 1965 opening of its Boca Raton campus on 865 acres of donated land, the 1972 establishment of the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (now world-renowned for marine biotechnology), and the 2011 launch of its College of Medicine.
Under presidents like Anthony Catanese and John B. King Jr., FAU expanded dramatically, adding professional programs in pharmacy, engineering, and business. Today, it ranks among top public universities for social mobility and innovation, per U.S. News & World Report. This history informs its job market: roles emphasize research productivity and community engagement, mirroring FAU's evolution from teaching-focused to research-intensive.
FAU offers over 180 undergraduate and graduate programs across 10 colleges, driving demand for specialized faculty and staff. The Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters hires in digital media and philosophy; the College of Business excels in supply chain management, seeking experts in analytics; while the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science leads in biology and physics.
Engineering stands out, with hires in ocean engineering (unique nationwide) and computer science amid AI growth. The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing and the College of Medicine post clinical and research jobs. Harbor Branch focuses on marine science, hiring for aquaculture and ecology roles. For a full spectrum, explore university job types.
Faculty jobs at FAU typically demand a terminal degree: PhD for most positions, MD or equivalent for medical roles, or DBA for business. Entry-level lecturers may qualify with a master's plus experience.
Align with FAU's priorities like coastal resilience, neuroscience, or renewable energy. For example, Harbor Branch seeks marine biologists studying coral restoration; engineering hires focus on AI-driven robotics.
Publications (5+ peer-reviewed for assistant professors), federal grants (e.g., NSF, NIH), and postdoctoral training are favored. Teaching experience via adjunct roles boosts candidacy.
Key skills include grant writing, data analysis (Python, R), interdisciplinary collaboration, and student mentoring. Soft skills like communication and adaptability are essential for Boca Raton's diverse student body.
Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to permanent employment after review of teaching, research, and service, typically 5-7 years.
Postdoctoral researcher (postdoc): Temporary position for recent PhDs to gain advanced research experience, often 2-3 years.
Adjunct professor: Part-time instructor without tenure benefits, focusing on teaching.
Grant funding: Financial support from agencies like NSF for specific research projects.
FAU centralizes applications via its Talent Acquisition portal at fau.edu/jobs. Steps include:
Actionable tips: Customize materials to FAU's mission—mention Florida's coastal focus. Use free cover letter templates. Network via conferences or LinkedIn. Highlight metrics like 'published 10 papers, secured $200K grant'. For international applicants, note H-1B visa support.
FAU's Inclusive Excellence Framework advances equity through targeted hiring, with the Office of Diversity and Equity offering unconscious bias training. The President's Diversity Council funds faculty fellowships for underrepresented groups. Examples: Latinx Success Initiative supports Hispanic hires; African American Mentoring Program pairs new faculty with mentors. In 2023, 45% of new hires were from diverse backgrounds, exceeding national averages. Women hold 40% of STEM faculty roles, bolstered by WISE (Women in Science and Engineering).
Boca Raton's 2,000-acre campus features palm-lined walks, innovation parks, and proximity to beaches, fostering relaxation. FAU offers 22 vacation days, 12 sick days, parental leave (12 weeks), and tuition waivers for employees' children. Wellness includes free gym access, counseling, and yoga classes. Multiple campuses provide flexibility—telework options post-COVID. Social life thrives via faculty clubs, arts events at the Schmidt Center, and athletics (Owls compete in Conference USA). Family perks like on-campus preschool enhance balance, with low cost-of-living aiding affordability.
Jobs at Florida Atlantic University combine research excellence, coastal lifestyle, and professional growth. From faculty in oceanography to admin in burgeoning medicine, opportunities abound. Leverage higher ed jobs listings, higher ed career advice, and university jobs resources. Institutions like FAU value innovation—consider posting a job if recruiting. Explore employer branding secrets or how to write a winning academic CV for success. With Florida's no-income-tax perk and Boca Raton's vibrancy, FAU jobs offer lasting impact.
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