The University of Massachusetts at Amherst, commonly known as UMass Amherst or UMass, is the flagship campus of the five-campus University of Massachusetts system. Located in the picturesque college town of Amherst, Massachusetts, it is a public land-grant research university founded in 1863. As an R1 Doctoral University with very high research activity, UMass Amherst employs thousands in roles that drive education, research, and public service. Jobs at University of Massachusetts at Amherst span faculty positions, administrative roles, research staff, and support positions, making it a major employer in higher education in the United States.
With over 32,000 students and a $700 million annual research expenditure, the university offers diverse opportunities. Academic professionals seeking higher ed jobs find here a blend of teaching, groundbreaking research, and community engagement. The campus spans 1,450 acres, featuring state-of-the-art facilities like the Life Science Laboratories and the Integrated Sciences Building, ideal for research-intensive roles.
UMass Amherst began as the Massachusetts Agricultural College in 1863, evolving into a comprehensive university by 1947. Its growth mirrors the expansion of higher education jobs, from agricultural extension specialists to today's interdisciplinary researchers. Key milestones include the establishment of the Isenberg School of Management in 1949 and the College of Engineering, which now ranks among the top public programs nationally.
Employment history reflects national trends in academia, with increased focus on research post-World War II. Today, jobs at UMass Amherst emphasize innovation, with centers like the Center for Data Science attracting global talent. The university's commitment to public good has sustained steady job growth, particularly in STEM fields where federal grants fund hundreds of positions annually.
UMass Amherst categorizes jobs into faculty, staff, and executive roles. Faculty positions include tenure-track professors, lecturers, and clinical faculty. Research jobs encompass postdocs, research associates, and lab managers. Administrative roles cover HR, finance, and student services. For a full breakdown, visit university job types.
The university posts openings on its careers site, with hundreds annually across colleges like Humanities and Fine Arts or Natural Sciences.
Jobs at University of Massachusetts at Amherst demand rigorous qualifications. Faculty roles typically require a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in the relevant field, such as a PhD in Computer Science for Isenberg School positions. Research focus must align with departmental strengths: sustainability at the Stockbridge School of Agriculture or public health at the School of Public Health and Health Sciences.
Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications (e.g., 5+ in top journals), grant writing success (NSF or NIH funding), and teaching portfolios. Skills and competencies vary:
Entry-level research assistant jobs may accept a bachelor's or master's with lab experience. Executive roles prioritize leadership, often with advanced degrees and 10+ years in higher ed administration.
R1 University: A Carnegie Classification denoting very high research activity, meaning UMass Amherst spends significantly on research and produces numerous doctorates.
Tenure-track: A career path leading to permanent employment after review, involving teaching, research, and service.
Postdoc: Postdoctoral fellowship, a temporary position for recent PhD graduates to gain advanced research experience.
Land-grant Institution: A university receiving federal support for agriculture, science, and engineering education, emphasizing practical application.
The application process starts on the UMass Amherst HR website or PageUp system. Submit a CV, cover letter, research/teaching statements, and three references. Deadlines are strict, often December for fall hires.
Tip: Use free resume templates tailored for academia. Review job postings for union details, as faculty are represented by the Massachusetts Society of Professors.
UMass Amherst prioritizes diversity through the Office of Equity and Inclusion. Initiatives include the Faculty Mentoring Program for underrepresented minorities, the NSF ADVANCE grant boosting women in STEM, and the Multicultural Scholars Program. The university's Strategic Action Plan aims for 20% increase in diverse hires by 2025. Affinity groups like the Black Faculty and Staff Association support community building. These efforts ensure inclusive environments for jobs at University of Massachusetts at Amherst.
Amherst, MA, offers a serene setting with the Berkshires nearby for hiking and skiing. Campus life includes the Fine Arts Center for concerts, UMass Athletics (Division I), and Five College Consortium for cross-registration. Employees enjoy tuition remission, parental leave, and wellness centers. Flexible schedules, remote options for some roles, and childcare subsidies aid balance. The university promotes mental health via counseling and EAP programs. Living costs are moderate, with faculty housing initiatives.
Jobs at University of Massachusetts at Amherst provide opportunities for impact in a top public research university. Whether seeking higher ed jobs, faculty positions, or research roles, leverage higher ed career advice from AcademicJobs.com. Browse university jobs or post a job to connect with talent. With strong rankings and supportive culture, UMass is ideal for academic careers. For employer branding tips, see employer branding secrets.
View all University Jobs
Post and Connect – the new way of promoting your higher ed jobs
