Mercyhurst College, located in Erie, Pennsylvania, is a private Catholic liberal arts institution founded in 1926 by the Sisters of Mercy. Nestled on a scenic 75-acre campus overlooking Lake Erie, it provides a supportive environment for academic professionals seeking meaningful careers in higher education. Today known as Mercyhurst University since 2012, it maintains its college roots in offering undergraduate and graduate programs to about 2,700 students. Jobs at Mercyhurst College span faculty, administrative, and support roles, emphasizing teaching, research, and community service in line with its mission.
The institution stands out for its specialized programs in applied intelligence, criminal justice, hospitality management, and athletic training, attracting professionals passionate about interdisciplinary studies. Whether you're a PhD holder eyeing tenure-track positions or an experienced administrator, opportunities here blend rigorous academics with a close-knit community atmosphere unique to smaller universities in the United States.
Mercyhurst College began as a women's college and evolved into a coeducational university while preserving its Catholic heritage. Its history reflects growth from a junior college to a comprehensive institution with over 100 majors. The campus in Erie, Pennsylvania, benefits from the city's vibrant arts scene and proximity to natural beauty, enhancing the appeal for employees who value work-life integration.
Understanding the history helps job seekers appreciate the culture. Founded amid the Roaring Twenties, it has navigated economic shifts, expanding graduate offerings in 1991 and intelligence studies in response to post-9/11 demands. This evolution shapes job expectations, prioritizing candidates who align with values like mercy, justice, and hospitality.
Mercyhurst College posts a variety of openings suited to higher education careers. Faculty jobs dominate, particularly in liberal arts, sciences, and professional programs. Administrative roles in student affairs, advancement, and operations are common, alongside staff positions in athletics, facilities, and IT.
Tenure-track professor jobs require commitment to teaching and research, while adjunct professor jobs offer flexibility for part-time educators. Explore university job types for a full breakdown of roles like lecturer jobs or research assistant jobs available across institutions like this one.
Current listings often highlight needs in growing programs, such as cybersecurity within intelligence studies.
For faculty positions at Mercyhurst College, a doctoral degree (PhD, EdD, or equivalent) in the relevant field is standard. For example, a job in applied intelligence demands a PhD in intelligence studies, criminology, or political science. Terminal master's degrees suffice for some lecturer jobs or specialized roles like hospitality management.
Administrative jobs may require a master's in higher education administration or related fields, with a PhD preferred for senior roles. All candidates need accreditation alignment, such as state teaching certifications for education positions.
Mercyhurst College emphasizes applied research, especially in intelligence and security studies through its Ridge College of Intelligence Studies & Applied Sciences. Expertise in data analysis, counterterrorism, or forensic accounting is prized. Environmental science roles focus on Great Lakes research, leveraging Erie's location.
Faculty are expected to publish and secure grants, contributing to the university's reputation. For research assistant jobs, skills in quantitative methods or GIS mapping are key. See research jobs for similar opportunities.
Employers at Mercyhurst College seek candidates with 3-5 years of teaching experience, peer-reviewed publications, and grant-writing success. Preferred skills include strong communication, curriculum development, and student mentoring.
Competencies like cultural competence and tech proficiency (e.g., learning management systems) are essential. For admin roles, experience in accreditation processes or fundraising is valued. Hospitality jobs favor industry veterans with management experience.
The application process starts on the Mercyhurst career portal at mercyhurst.edu/careers. Submit a CV, cover letter, transcripts, and references online. Interviews involve teaching demos for faculty and panel discussions for admin.
Tips: Customize your materials to the Catholic mission, highlighting service. Network via conferences or alumni events in Pennsylvania. Use free resume template and free cover letter template from AcademicJobs.com. Follow up politely and prepare for questions on intelligence ethics.
Mercyhurst College commits to diversity via the Sisters of Mercy ethos. The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council promotes inclusive hiring, with targeted recruitment for underrepresented groups in STEM and leadership. Initiatives include the Multicultural Student Union support and annual diversity conferences.
Recent efforts feature bias training for search committees and scholarships like the Sisters of Mercy Scholarship for first-generation students, extending to faculty development. The university tracks demographics, aiming for balanced representation in Erie, PA's diverse community.
Employees enjoy a supportive environment with flexible scheduling, especially in summer. Campus life features athletic complexes, the Taylor Little Theatre, and Lake Erie trails for recreation. Erie offers affordable living, cultural festivals, and proximity to Pittsburgh and Cleveland.
Benefits include health insurance, tuition remission for dependents, and retirement plans. Wellness programs address mental health, vital in higher ed. Faculty praise the collaborative atmosphere and student engagement, fostering balance amid teaching loads.
Live in Erie for lower costs than urban centers, with family-friendly neighborhoods and outdoor activities year-round.
Mercyhurst College in Erie, Pennsylvania, offers rewarding jobs blending faith, academics, and innovation. From faculty to admin, roles suit dedicated professionals. Check higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com for more. For branding tips, read employer branding secrets and how to write a winning academic CV.
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