Union College, located in Cranford, New Jersey, is a public community college serving Union County since its founding in 1933. Known as Union College of Union County, New Jersey (often abbreviated UCNJ), it provides affordable higher education to over 10,000 students annually across its main Cranford campus and satellite locations in Elizabeth and Plainfield. The college emphasizes open-access education, offering associate degrees, certificates, and pathways to four-year institutions. For those interested in community college jobs, Union College stands out for its commitment to student success in a diverse suburban setting near New York City.
The institution's history reflects adaptation to local needs, starting as a junior college during the Great Depression to offer vocational training. Today, it boasts strong programs in allied health, business administration, criminal justice, and engineering technology, making it a hub for career-focused roles. Jobs at Union College attract educators passionate about teaching non-traditional students, with opportunities in a supportive academic environment.
Career opportunities at Union College span faculty, administration, and support roles. Full-time faculty positions include professors in departments like nursing, computer science, and liberal arts, often tenure-track. Adjunct instructors teach part-time courses, ideal for flexible schedules. Administrative jobs cover deans, directors, HR specialists, and counselors. Support staff roles involve IT, facilities, and student services. For a full breakdown, explore university job types available across higher education.
Union College frequently posts openings for adjuncts due to high enrollment in high-demand fields like healthcare and STEM.
To understand jobs at Union College, key terms include:
For faculty jobs at Union College, a master's degree in the teaching field is the minimum for adjuncts, while full-time roles prefer a PhD or terminal degree (e.g., MFA for arts, EdD for education). Nursing instructors need RN licensure and BSN/MSN. Administrative positions require bachelor's plus experience; senior roles like dean seek doctorates. All candidates must demonstrate teaching effectiveness, often via student evaluations or syllabi.
Union County residents benefit from local hiring preferences, aligning with the college's community mission. Credentials from regional accreditors like Middle States Commission are essential.
Unlike research universities, Union College prioritizes pedagogy over pure research. However, expertise in applied research, grants (e.g., NSF for STEM), or program assessment is valued. Faculty in sciences may contribute to undergraduate research projects or industry partnerships. Publications in teaching journals or conference presentations strengthen applications. For those with research backgrounds, see postdoctoral success tips, adaptable to community college contexts.
Preferred experience includes 2+ years teaching diverse adults, curriculum development, and online instruction proficiency (e.g., Canvas LMS). Skills encompass cultural competency, data-driven decision-making, and collaboration. Competencies like adaptability to hybrid learning and student advising are crucial. Union College seeks candidates with community engagement experience, such as outreach in Union County.
The application process starts on the Union College careers page, requiring a cover letter, CV, transcripts, and references. Submit via their online portal; teaching philosophy statements are common. Tips: Customize for student success focus, highlight NJ teaching experience, prepare demo lessons. Network at local conferences. Use our free resume template and cover letter template. Deadlines vary; adjuncts often rolling.
Avoid common pitfalls like generic applications; reference UCC's strategic plan.
Union College actively promotes diversity through its Office of Equity and Inclusion, offering training on unconscious bias, Hispanic Heritage events, and Black History Month programming. The college's student body is 45% Hispanic, 25% Black, driving inclusive hiring. Affirmative action plans target underrepresented faculty; mentorship for women in STEM exists. Partnerships with NAACP and local Latino organizations support recruitment. This fosters a welcoming environment for jobs at Union College.
Union College supports work-life with flexible schedules for adjuncts, 35-hour weeks for staff, and generous PTO (20+ days/year). Benefits include tuition waivers (100% for employees, 50% dependents), health plans, and retirement matching. Campus life features a vibrant Cranford setting with gardens, theaters, and proximity to NYC (30 min train). Employee wellness includes gym access, EAP counseling, and social committees. Professional development via NJ Council of County Colleges funds conferences. The suburban vibe offers low stress, ideal for families.
Faculty enjoy collaborative departments, low student-faculty ratios (20:1), and growth opportunities like department chair roles.
With strong job security, impact on first-gen students, and NJ location perks, Union College appeals to educators. Salaries competitive: full-time faculty ~$75K start. Check higher ed jobs, university jobs, or post your profile on recruitment. For advice, visit higher ed career advice or explore faculty jobs.
In summary, jobs at Union College offer meaningful careers shaping futures. Search openings, prepare via post a job resources, and apply confidently.
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