Assistant Professor of Illustration and Program Lead

Assistant Professor of Illustration and Program Lead (Entertainment Art Focus)

Location: Lakewood, CO

Target Salary: $65,000 - 75,000 per year

Application Deadline: Open until filled

Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design is looking for an Assistant Professor and Program Lead with expertise in Concept Art for its Illustration Program within the Visual Communication Design Department. Program Leads are experienced faculty and discipline experts. As such, they offer insight to the department and focus on performance metrics related to teaching and learning.

Program Leads provide academic leadership and administrative support within the program, with a focus on curriculum, improving student learning and success, mentoring and supporting part time faculty, and assisting the department chair with administrative functions such as studio activities and events, scheduling, budgeting, and program management. Program Leads hold a faculty rank with an approved teaching load.

RMCAD’s Visual Communication Department offers degree programs rooted in industry-aligned practices, emerging technologies, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The successful application will have demonstrated knowledge and overall experience in the Entertainment Industry in workflows encompassing various design and production skills (character, prop, creature, environment, etc), matte painting, 3D modeling, color scripting and art direction. This position supports the continued design, development, and delivery of dynamic, studio-centered curricula and the advancement of learning outcomes to prepare students for careers in Entertainment.

Required Qualifications:

• A graduate degree (MA, MS, MFA, MDes, or equivalent) in Art, Design, Illustration, Animation, Entertainment Arts, or a closely related field, OR a bachelor’s degree plus a substantial, sustained record of professional practice in Concept Art, Visual Development, or Entertainment Arts that is widely recognized within the field.
• 2+ years of leadership experience in an academic, curricular, or professional context (e.g., Program Lead, curriculum coordinator, department head, studio lead with mentoring or training responsibilities).
• 2+ years of teaching experience in an accredited postsecondary institution with proven expertise in teaching Entertainment Arts principles and related software.
• Examples of pedagogical approaches that align with the institution's mission and values, along with evidence of effective and inclusive teaching that highly values a diverse student body.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate across faculty, instructional design, and academic leadership structures.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A terminal degree (MFA or PhD) in Art, Design, Illustration, Education, or a related discipline OR equivalent professional distinction recognized at a national or international level.
• A sustained record of professional or studio-based work in Concept Art, Visual Development, or Entertainment Arts (film, games, animation), demonstrated through credits, exhibitions, portfolio and live projects.
• Experience and a proven track-record of success in leading or supporting curriculum development, assessment, accreditation initiatives and delivering quality online education.
• Proficiency with industry-standard and emerging design technologies and workflows, including but not limited to Adobe Suite, Procreate, Blender, and ZBrush.
• Ongoing engagement with contemporary, emerging industry practices and pipelines.