South Central College (SCC), located primarily in North Mankato, Minnesota, stands as a cornerstone of community education in the United States. Established in 1946 as the Mankato Vocational Technical Institute, it evolved into South Central Technical College before merging with Mankato Area Vocational Technical Institute to form the modern SCC in 2015. This public two-year institution serves over 5,000 students annually across its North Mankato and Mankato campuses, offering associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates in more than 60 programs. Fields like nursing, information technology, business management, welding, and liberal arts for transfer dominate, reflecting the practical needs of southern Minnesota's workforce.
Jobs at South Central College appeal to educators and professionals passionate about hands-on teaching in a community college setting. Unlike research-intensive universities, SCC emphasizes applied learning, making roles focused on instruction, student support, and program development. Faculty positions often involve teaching multiple courses per semester, advising students, and contributing to curriculum updates. Administrative jobs handle enrollment, financial aid, and facilities, while support staff roles support labs and student services. The college's affiliation with the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system ensures competitive salaries, averaging around $60,000-$80,000 for full-time faculty depending on experience and credentials.
In North Mankato, a city of about 14,000 nestled along the Minnesota River, SCC benefits from a serene yet accessible location near Mankato's urban amenities. This setting fosters a close-knit professional community, ideal for those seeking meaningful impact without big-city pressures. Opportunities at SCC align with broader community college jobs, prioritizing teaching excellence over publications.
Employment at South Central College spans teaching, administrative, and technical roles tailored to its vocational mission. Full-time faculty instructors lead programs in high-demand areas; for instance, nursing instructors guide associate degree nursing (ADN) students through clinical simulations and classroom theory, preparing them for licensure exams where SCC boasts high pass rates. Welding instructors oversee hands-on labs, training students for certifications like those from the American Welding Society.
Adjunct professors provide flexible part-time teaching, often evenings or online, covering subjects like computer networking or accounting. Administrative positions include deans of career and technical education, who oversee program accreditation, and student services coordinators managing advising for transfer pathways to four-year Minnesota State universities. Maintenance and IT support roles ensure campus operations run smoothly.
For a deeper dive into similar positions, visit university job types. SCC's jobs emphasize real-world application, with many requiring industry certifications alongside academic credentials.
Qualifications for jobs at South Central College vary by role but prioritize practical expertise in Minnesota's community college context. Full-time faculty typically need a master's degree in the teaching field or a bachelor's plus significant professional experience—such as five years in industry for technical programs. For example, an IT instructor might hold a bachelor's in computer science and CompTIA certifications.
Research focus is minimal compared to universities; instead, expertise centers on curriculum aligned with workforce needs, like integrating OSHA safety standards into trades courses. Preferred experience includes prior teaching, grant writing for program funding (e.g., Perkins grants for career tech), and student mentoring. Publications are rare but valued in transfer-oriented fields like English or math.
Key skills and competencies include:
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To clarify key terms for jobs at South Central College:
The application process for jobs at South Central College begins on the Minnesota State Careers website (careers.minnstate.edu), where postings detail minimum qualifications and deadlines. Submit a cover letter, resume, transcripts, and references online. Interviews often include teaching demonstrations and panel discussions with campus stakeholders.
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South Central College actively advances diversity through its Equity 2030 plan, aiming for inclusive excellence. Initiatives include bias training for hiring committees, TRIO programs supporting underrepresented students (which influence staff roles), and partnerships with organizations like the Hmong American Partnership. In 2023, SCC reported increased hiring of faculty from diverse backgrounds, with targeted recruitment for roles in multicultural education. Employee resource groups foster belonging, and annual diversity audits ensure progress. These efforts align with Minnesota State's system-wide goals, creating equitable opportunities for all applicants.
Work-life balance at South Central College shines through flexible scheduling, especially for adjuncts, and generous benefits like 22 vacation days annually plus sick leave. Full-time employees access tuition waivers for family members and wellness programs, including fitness centers on both campuses. North Mankato's campus features modern facilities like the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, with walking trails and proximity to Lake Washington for recreation.
Campus life buzzes with events like career fairs, cultural celebrations, and professional development workshops. The supportive culture, small class sizes (average 20 students), and collaborative departments reduce burnout. Proximity to Mankato offers dining, arts, and family activities, making it family-friendly for Minnesota professionals. Many employees praise the sense of community, with longevity averaging 10+ years in roles.
Professional development at SCC includes Minnesota State leadership academies, conference funding, and sabbaticals for full-timers. Transitions from adjunct to tenure-track are common, with mentorship programs aiding growth. In a state valuing education—ranked high nationally for associate degree attainment—SCC jobs offer stability amid Minnesota's strong economy.
Recent expansions, like new cybersecurity programs, create ongoing opportunities. For career advice, check how to write a winning academic CV or employer branding secrets.
In summary, jobs at South Central College provide fulfilling paths in higher ed jobs. Search university jobs, refine skills via higher ed career advice, or post openings at recruitment and post a job with AcademicJobs.com.
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