Lawson State Community College (LSCC), located in Birmingham, Alabama, is a public two-year institution dedicated to providing accessible education and workforce training. Established in 1949 as a technical school for African Americans during segregation, it became one of the first community colleges in the state. Today, LSCC serves over 3,000 students across its Birmingham and Bessemer campuses, offering associate degrees, certificates, and pathways to four-year universities. The college emphasizes hands-on learning in fields like health sciences, industrial technologies, and business, making it a hub for career-focused jobs at Lawson State Community College.
Jobs at Lawson State Community College span faculty, staff, and administrative roles, supporting its mission to empower diverse communities through education. With a student body that is predominantly African American and first-generation college attendees, positions here require a commitment to equity and student success. The college is part of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS), which standardizes hiring and benefits across 22 institutions.
Lawson State Community College traces its roots to 1949 when it opened as Lawson State Agricultural and Industrial School, addressing the need for vocational training for Black students in Jefferson County. Named after Issac Lawson, an early supporter, it transitioned to a junior college in 1963 and integrated in the 1970s. By 1985, it fully became Lawson State Community College, expanding programs amid Alabama's community college growth.
This history shapes jobs at Lawson State Community College, with a legacy of resilience fostering roles in technical education. Today, LSCC boasts modern facilities like the Health Sciences Center and Advanced Technology Center, driving demand for specialized instructors. Understanding this background helps applicants align their experience with the college's transformative role in higher education.
LSCC offers over 30 programs, including Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing, Automotive Manufacturing Technology, Computer Information Systems, and Welding Technology. Transfer degrees in biology, history, and psychology prepare students for universities like the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). These programs create steady needs for faculty and support staff.
Jobs at Lawson State Community College often involve teaching small classes (average 20 students), integrating technology, and advising. Explore community college jobs for similar opportunities nationwide.
Common jobs at Lawson State Community College include full-time faculty, adjunct instructors, department chairs, counselors, and administrative roles like registrars or IT specialists. Faculty teach 15-18 credit hours per semester, while adjuncts offer flexibility. Support positions in student services and maintenance ensure campus operations.
For a full breakdown of university job types, including how community college roles differ from four-year institutions, visit our guide. LSCC prioritizes candidates with teaching experience in diverse settings.
Jobs at Lawson State Community College demand specific credentials aligned with Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) standards.
Full-time faculty typically need a master's degree in the discipline or 18 graduate semester hours in the teaching field. For vocational programs, industry certifications (e.g., RN for nursing) plus a bachelor's suffice. PhD holders gain preference for academic departments.
Though not research-intensive, expertise in applied projects matters. Examples include grant-funded workforce studies or STEM innovations with local partners like UAB or Birmingham industry.
Prior teaching, publications in community college journals, or grants from ACCS. Experience with online platforms like Canvas and serving underrepresented students is valued.
These ensure success in LSCC's student-centered environment. See how to write a winning academic CV for tips.
Community College: A two-year public institution offering affordable associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs, focusing on workforce readiness (e.g., LSCC).
Adjunct Professor: Part-time instructor hired per course, without full benefits, common in higher ed for flexibility.
ACCS: Alabama Community College System, governing LSCC and standardizing policies.
SACSCOC: Regional accreditor ensuring quality in Southern colleges.
To apply for jobs at Lawson State Community College, visit the ACCS careers portal at accs.edu. Submit via NeoGov: resume, cover letter, transcripts, and three references. Deadlines vary; full-time postings close after 2-4 weeks.
Tips: Emphasize diversity experience; network via LinkedIn or ACCS events. Use our free resume template and free cover letter template. Reference employer branding secrets for insights.
LSCC, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU)-affiliated, champions inclusion. Initiatives include:
These foster a welcoming environment for jobs at Lawson State Community College, with policies against discrimination and training on bias.
LSCC promotes balance with 37.5-hour weeks, summers off for faculty, and hybrid options. Benefits: Blue Cross health, RETS retirement (7.5-12.75% match), tuition remission for dependents.
Campus life: Vibrant with Cougar athletics (basketball, softball), cultural events, and proximity to Birmingham's attractions like the Civil Rights Institute. Employee wellness includes gym access and EAP counseling. Professional development via ACCS conferences enhances growth.
Salaries: Faculty $45,000-$65,000 starting, per ACCS scale. Low cost-of-living in Birmingham aids balance.
Advancement includes promotions to chairs/deans, sabbaticals after 6 years. PD funds cover certifications. Explore higher ed faculty jobs or professor salaries.
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