Knox College, located in Galesburg, Illinois, is a premier liberal arts institution offering a variety of academic and administrative jobs. As a small residential college with approximately 1,300 undergraduates, it emphasizes close faculty-student interactions, innovative teaching, and undergraduate research. Jobs at Knox College attract educators and professionals passionate about liberal arts education in a supportive environment. The college's unique open curriculum, where students design their own paths without general education requirements, shapes faculty roles to be highly flexible and creative.
Whether you're seeking tenure-track faculty positions, staff roles in student affairs, or administrative opportunities, Knox provides a collaborative atmosphere in the heart of the Midwest. Galesburg's small-town charm, combined with proximity to larger cities like Chicago (two hours away), makes it an appealing location for higher ed careers.
Founded in 1837 by Presbyterian abolitionists, Knox College has a rich history rooted in social justice and intellectual freedom. It hosted the fifth Lincoln-Douglas debate in 1858, highlighting its commitment to open discourse. Today, Knox's mission centers on preparing students for purposeful lives through rigorous academics, experiential learning, and global citizenship. This legacy influences jobs at Knox College, prioritizing faculty who foster critical thinking and diversity of thought.
The college's evolution from a frontier institution to a modern liberal arts leader means employment opportunities often involve contributing to traditions like the senior capstone projects and study abroad programs, which send over 70% of students overseas.
Knox College features 45 majors across disciplines like biochemistry and molecular biology, creative writing (ranked top in the nation), neuroscience, and environmental studies. Faculty jobs span arts and sciences, with strengths in interdisciplinary programs such as African studies and women's and gender studies. Explore higher ed faculty jobs to see how Knox's structure supports innovative research and teaching.
Staff positions support these programs in areas like admissions, library services, and athletics, making Knox a hub for diverse higher education roles.
Jobs at Knox College include tenure-track professor roles, visiting assistant professors, lecturers, research associates, administrative positions like deans and directors, and support staff in IT, HR, and facilities. Faculty positions emphasize teaching loads of 3/3 or 2/3 with research time. For a full breakdown, visit our university job types page.
For faculty jobs at Knox College, a PhD or terminal degree in the relevant field is typically required for tenure-track positions. Candidates for assistant professor roles must hold the doctorate at the time of appointment. Master's degrees suffice for some lecturer or adjunct positions, especially in fine arts or professional fields. Administrative roles like department chairs often require advanced degrees plus leadership experience.
Teaching certifications are valued for education department jobs, while STEM roles may need postdoc experience. Knox prioritizes candidates who can engage undergraduates in research from day one.
Knox College encourages faculty research that involves students, with funded summer programs and conference travel. Expertise in areas like computational biology, sustainable agriculture, or digital humanities aligns with institutional strengths. Publications and grants enhance competitiveness; the college supports applications to NSF and NEH funding. Interdisciplinary expertise is key due to the open curriculum.
Preferred qualifications include 2-3 years of college teaching, peer-reviewed publications (3+ for assistant professors), grant writing success, and experience mentoring diverse students. Skills like curriculum development, data analysis for liberal arts contexts, and commitment to inclusive pedagogy are essential.
Administrative jobs favor experience in accreditation, budgeting, or student retention strategies. See employer branding secrets for attracting talent like yours.
The application process begins on Knox's careers portal, where postings detail requirements. Submit a cover letter addressing teaching philosophy, CV, diversity statement, teaching portfolio, and three letters of recommendation. Interviews include campus visits with teaching demos.
Deadlines vary; tenure-track searches often close in fall. Network via conferences or alumni connections.
Knox College actively promotes diversity through the Center for Diversity and Inclusion, offering affinity groups for LGBTQ+, first-generation students, and students of color. Faculty hiring includes bias training and targets underrepresented groups. The Inclusive Excellence initiative funds mentorship programs and cultural events. In 2023, 45% of faculty identified as people of color or from underrepresented groups, exceeding national liberal arts averages.
Knox supports work-life balance with tenure policies allowing sabbaticals after six years, parental leave, and EAP wellness programs. The 82-acre campus features historic buildings, green spaces, and modern facilities like the new science center. Galesburg offers affordable living, cultural festivals, and outdoor activities. Employees enjoy faculty clubs, gym access, and proximity to lakes for recreation. Small size fosters community, with events like Homecoming and faculty-student collaborations enhancing daily life.
Tenure-track: A faculty position leading to tenure after 6-7 years of review based on teaching, research, and service.
Open Curriculum: Knox's model allowing students to choose courses freely without distribution requirements, promoting self-directed learning.
Liberal Arts College: An undergraduate institution focusing on broad education in humanities, sciences, and arts for well-rounded graduates.
Sabbatical: Paid leave for faculty to pursue research or professional development, typically one semester every few years.
Jobs at Knox College offer a unique blend of teaching excellence, research opportunities, and community impact in Galesburg, Illinois. From faculty roles requiring PhDs and publications to supportive staff positions, Knox stands out in higher education. Ready to apply? Browse higher ed jobs, get career advice from higher ed career advice, explore university jobs, or post your opening at post a job.
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