Kirkwood Community College, located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a leading public two-year institution serving the needs of students and the community since its founding in 1966. With multiple campuses including the main one in Cedar Rapids and others in Cedar Falls, Iowa City, and Williamsburg, it enrolls over 20,000 students annually, offering associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs. The college is known for its strong emphasis on career preparation in fields like health sciences, advanced manufacturing, information technology, and business administration. Jobs at Kirkwood Community College attract educators and professionals passionate about student success and regional economic development.
As a community college, Kirkwood focuses on accessible higher education, making it an ideal place for those seeking roles in teaching, administration, and support services. The institution's commitment to practical, hands-on learning creates dynamic opportunities for faculty and staff to make a direct impact on Iowa's workforce.
Careers at Kirkwood span faculty, staff, and leadership positions. Full-time faculty teach in areas such as nursing, welding, cybersecurity, and liberal arts. Adjunct instructors provide flexible part-time teaching, while administrative roles include deans, directors, and coordinators in student services or enrollment management. Support staff positions cover areas like IT support, facilities maintenance, and financial aid advising. For a full list of university job types, explore available categories tailored to community colleges like Kirkwood.
Recent openings have included positions like Automotive Technology Instructor, Dental Hygiene Faculty, and Human Resources Specialist, reflecting the college's diverse program offerings. These roles often emphasize practical experience alongside academic credentials, aligning with the college's mission to bridge education and employment.
To secure jobs at Kirkwood Community College, candidates typically need specific academic qualifications. For faculty positions in transfer programs (those leading to four-year degrees), a master's degree in the relevant field is required, with a PhD preferred for disciplines like English or mathematics. Career and technical education roles, such as those in manufacturing or health sciences, prioritize industry certifications and bachelor's degrees combined with professional experience—often 3-5 years in the field.
Research focus at a community college like Kirkwood centers on applied projects rather than pure academic research. Expertise in grant writing for workforce development or partnerships with local industries like John Deere or Rockwell Collins is highly valued. Preferred experience includes publications in trade journals, prior teaching, or leadership in professional organizations.
Skills and competencies sought include strong communication, curriculum development, student mentoring, and proficiency in learning management systems like Canvas. Technology integration and data-driven instruction are key in today's higher ed jobs.
Community College: A two-year public institution offering affordable associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs to four-year universities, emphasizing workforce readiness. Kirkwood Community College exemplifies this model in Iowa.
Adjunct Instructor: Part-time faculty member hired per course or semester, providing flexibility for professionals balancing teaching with other careers.
Workforce Training: Short-term programs designed to equip students with job-specific skills, often in partnership with local employers, a core focus at Kirkwood.
The application process for jobs at Kirkwood Community College begins with visiting the official careers page on their website. Create an account, search for openings, and submit an online application including a resume, cover letter, transcripts, and a teaching philosophy statement for faculty roles. Background checks and references are standard.
Actionable tips:
Applications are reviewed year-round, but full-time positions often align with academic calendars. Follow up politely after two weeks.
Kirkwood Community College prioritizes diversity through its Equity and Inclusion Action Plan, which includes targeted recruitment for underrepresented faculty and staff. The DEI Council oversees training on cultural competency and bias awareness. Specific examples include the TRIO program supporting first-generation students, Latinx Leadership Institute, and partnerships with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission. In 2023, Kirkwood increased diverse hires by 20% and offers scholarships like the Diversity Leadership Award. These efforts create an inclusive environment fostering varied perspectives in teaching and administration.
Kirkwood promotes work-life balance with flexible scheduling for faculty, including options for hybrid teaching, generous paid time off (up to 22 days annually for full-time staff), and employee assistance programs. Professional development funds cover conferences and certifications, allowing growth without burnout.
Campus life in Cedar Rapids buzzes with events like Eagle Fest, athletic games, and cultural celebrations at the Main Campus' modern facilities, including a fitness center and dining options. Multiple locations offer variety—urban vibe in Cedar Rapids, quieter settings elsewhere. Employees enjoy tuition waivers for family members and community engagement opportunities, contributing to a supportive, vibrant atmosphere. Cedar Rapids' affordable living, parks, and proximity to Amana Colonies enhance off-campus life.
Kirkwood stands out for its student-centered culture, innovative programs, and contributions to Iowa's economy. With low student-to-faculty ratios (around 20:1), educators make meaningful impacts. Salaries are competitive, with faculty starting at $50,000-$70,000 based on experience, plus benefits like Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS).
History highlights Kirkwood's growth from a vocational school to a comprehensive college, adapting to regional needs like advanced manufacturing amid Iowa's industrial base. For those eyeing community college jobs or higher ed jobs, Kirkwood offers stability and purpose.
In summary, pursuing jobs at Kirkwood Community College means joining a forward-thinking institution. Explore more on higher ed jobs, get career advice via higher ed career advice, browse university jobs, or post your opening at post a job.
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