Palomar College, located in San Marcos, California, stands as one of the largest community colleges in the state, serving over 20,000 students annually across its main campus and several super satellite locations. Founded in 1946, it has grown into a cornerstone of higher education in North San Diego County, offering more than 150 associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs to four-year universities. For job seekers interested in community college jobs, Palomar provides diverse opportunities in teaching, administration, and support services.
Careers at Palomar College appeal to those passionate about student success in a teaching-focused environment. Unlike research-intensive universities, community colleges like Palomar emphasize instruction, student support, and community engagement. Faculty members teach a range of courses from general education to vocational training in fields like nursing, automotive technology, and computer science. Administrative roles manage operations, while classified staff handle essential services such as counseling and facilities.
The college's commitment to accessibility makes it an ideal place for adjunct professors starting their careers or full-time educators seeking stability. With a diverse student body representing various backgrounds, working at Palomar means contributing to equitable education in a dynamic region near beaches and urban centers.
Palomar College offers several categories of employment. Full-time tenure-track faculty positions involve teaching, curriculum development, and committee service. Adjunct instructors teach part-time, often multiple sections per semester. Management roles include deans and directors overseeing departments, while confidential positions support executive functions. Classified staff cover areas like IT, maintenance, and financial aid.
For a deeper dive into types of positions available, consider faculty as the core, requiring subject-matter expertise. Popular openings include English, math, biology, and business instructors. Explore higher ed faculty jobs or lecturer jobs for similar roles.
To teach at Palomar College, candidates typically need a master's degree in the teaching discipline from an accredited institution, or a bachelor's degree with equivalent professional experience as defined by the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office Minimum Qualifications. For example, nursing instructors require a bachelor's in nursing plus a master's in a related field or RN licensure with experience. Doctoral degrees (PhD) are preferred for some advanced or transfer-level courses but not always mandatory.
Administrative positions often demand a bachelor's or master's in education administration, public administration, or a related area, coupled with several years of higher education experience. Classified staff roles may require associate degrees or certifications specific to the job, like HR credentials or HVAC licenses.
📊 These standards ensure instructors are equipped to deliver quality education aligned with transfer requirements to UC and CSU systems.
While Palomar is primarily teaching-oriented, faculty can engage in scholarly activities through grants, program reviews, and student research projects. Expertise in high-demand areas like STEM, healthcare, and technology is sought. Preferred experience includes prior teaching at community colleges, curriculum design, online instruction proficiency, and industry background for vocational roles.
Publications, conference presentations, or grant funding strengthen applications for full-time positions. For instance, applicants for engineering faculty roles benefit from practical experience in local industries. Check research assistant jobs for entry points into academic research.
Key skills include strong communication, cultural competency, and student-centered pedagogy. Proficiency in learning management systems like Canvas is essential. Competencies like data-driven decision-making, collaboration, and adaptability are valued in a unionized environment with shared governance.
Palomar College prioritizes diversity through its Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Plan, aiming to hire from underrepresented groups. The college has a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, offers bias training, and celebrates events like Hispanic Heritage Month. Recent initiatives include recruiting diverse adjunct pools and supporting Latinx and first-generation faculty. The Student Equity Plan addresses achievement gaps, involving staff in inclusive practices.
In 2023, Palomar expanded its Basic Needs Center to support underserved students, reflecting employee involvement in equity work. This fosters a welcoming workplace for all backgrounds.
Palomar promotes balance with flexible adjunct scheduling, 10-month contracts for full-time faculty, and generous holidays. Benefits include health insurance, retirement plans via CalPERS, and sabbaticals after six years. The San Marcos campus spans 122 acres with hiking trails, a performing arts center, and sports facilities. Employees access gymnasiums, libraries, and dining options.
Campus life buzzes with events like Comet Carnival and professional development days. Proximity to San Diego offers cultural outings, while the collegial atmosphere supports mentorship. Read employer branding secrets for insights on such environments.
The application process starts on the Palomar College Careers page. Create an account, upload required documents: cover letter, resume/CV, unofficial transcripts, and answer job-specific questions. Applications are screened, followed by interviews with hiring committees.
Tip: Review the collective bargaining agreements for salary schedules. Use free resume templates and cover letter templates from AcademicJobs.com to stand out.
Jobs at Palomar College offer rewarding opportunities in a vibrant California community college setting. Whether seeking higher ed jobs, faculty roles, or administrative positions, the college provides growth amid diverse students. Leverage higher ed career advice resources, explore university jobs, and check post a job if recruiting. Start your journey today.
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