UNC Asheville Jobs and Career Opportunities

🎓 Overview of University of North Carolina Asheville

The University of North Carolina Asheville (UNC Asheville), founded in 1927, is the designated public liberal arts university in the University of North Carolina system. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, it serves approximately 3,300 undergraduates with a focus on teaching excellence, undergraduate research, and interdisciplinary studies. Known for its commitment to sustainability, creativity, and community engagement, UNC Asheville offers jobs at University of North Carolina Asheville that appeal to passionate educators and professionals seeking a collaborative environment.

Jobs at UNC Asheville span faculty, staff, and administrative roles, emphasizing small class sizes (average 17 students) and hands-on learning. The university's liberal arts curriculum integrates sciences, humanities, and arts, making it ideal for candidates interested in innovative teaching. With a student-faculty ratio of 14:1, employees contribute directly to student success in a picturesque campus setting.

Types of Jobs at UNC Asheville

UNC Asheville jobs include tenure-track professor positions, adjunct faculty roles, research assistants, postdoctoral researchers, and administrative positions in admissions, student affairs, and facilities. Faculty openings often appear in departments like environmental studies, psychology, and visual arts. For a full list of position types, visit university job types.

• Tenure-track faculty: Permanent roles with research and teaching duties.
• Adjunct professors: Part-time teaching positions; see adjunct professor jobs.
• Research assistants: Support undergraduate research projects.
• Administrative staff: Roles in HR, finance, and student services; explore higher ed admin jobs.

The university also hires for lecturer jobs and higher ed executive positions periodically.

Definitions

To understand jobs at University of North Carolina Asheville, key terms include:

• Tenure-track professor: A faculty position leading to tenure after 5-7 years, involving teaching, research, and service.
• Adjunct faculty: Part-time instructors hired per course, without benefits or tenure path.
• Postdoctoral researcher (postdoc): Temporary role for recent PhD graduates to conduct advanced research; check higher ed postdoc jobs.
• Undergraduate research assistant: Student or entry-level staff supporting faculty projects, often leading to publications.

Required Academic Qualifications, Research Focus, Preferred Experience, Skills, and Competencies

For faculty jobs at University of North Carolina Asheville, a PhD in the relevant field is typically required (e.g., PhD in Biology for science roles). Research focus aligns with UNC Asheville's strengths in environmental science, creative writing, and psychology, where undergraduate involvement is key.

Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications, grant funding from NSF or private foundations, and teaching at liberal arts institutions. Skills like mentoring undergraduates, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community outreach are essential. Competencies such as strong communication, adaptability to small classes, and commitment to diversity enhance candidacy.

• Academic qualifications: PhD or terminal degree; master's for some lecturer roles.
• Research focus: Sustainability, arts, STEM with undergrad emphasis.
• Preferred experience: 2+ years teaching, publications (average 3-5 for assistant professors).
• Skills: Grant writing, curriculum development, data analysis.
• Competencies: Cultural competence, innovative pedagogy.

Candidates with experience in research jobs or higher ed faculty jobs are prioritized.

Application Process and Tips

The application process for UNC Asheville jobs starts with online submission through the university's portal or platforms like AcademicJobs.com. Required documents include a CV, cover letter highlighting fit with liberal arts mission, teaching statement, research agenda, diversity statement, and 3-5 letters of recommendation.

1. Research the department and tailor your materials to UNC Asheville's values.
2. Submit by deadlines (often January-March for fall hires).
3. Prepare for interviews including teaching demos and research talks.
4. Follow up politely post-submission.

Tip: Emphasize undergraduate research experience. Use free resume template and free cover letter template from AcademicJobs.com. Network via conferences.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

UNC Asheville actively promotes diversity through the Diversity and Inclusion Council, LGBTQ+ Center, and scholarships for underrepresented students. Hiring practices include bias training and affirmative action. Recent initiatives: Increasing faculty of color (20% goal) and gender equity programs. The university hosts cultural events and supports employer branding for talent attraction.

Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

🏔️ UNC Asheville fosters work-life balance with generous PTO (22 days/year), flexible hours, parental leave, and wellness perks like gym access and counseling. Campus life thrives with arts festivals, hiking trails in nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, and a vibrant Asheville scene (breweries, music). Employees enjoy low cost of living, collaborative culture, and events like Highsmith University Union activities. Salaries competitive: Assistant professors ~$65K-$75K.

The small size promotes mentorship and community, with sabbaticals every 6 years for tenured faculty.

Why Pursue UNC Asheville Jobs?

Jobs at University of North Carolina Asheville offer meaningful impact in a stunning location, blending rigorous academics with real-world application. With strong support for research and teaching, it's ideal for early-career academics.

Ready to apply? Browse higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com.