The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW), a public research university located in Wilmington, North Carolina, offers diverse career opportunities in higher education. Nestled along the Atlantic coast, UNCW attracts professionals passionate about marine science, environmental research, business, and liberal arts. Jobs at University of North Carolina Wilmington span faculty positions, administrative roles, research staff, and support services, all contributing to its mission of student success and regional impact.
With approximately 18,000 students and part of the University of North Carolina system, UNCW emphasizes teaching excellence, research innovation, and community engagement. Careers here appeal to those seeking a balance between academic rigor and coastal lifestyle. Whether you're eyeing professor jobs or administrative positions, understanding the ecosystem of roles at UNCW is key.
Founded in 1947 as Wilmington College, UNCW evolved into a four-year institution in 1969 and joined the UNC system in 1972. Today, it stands as a doctoral university with high research activity, particularly in coastal and marine sciences due to its prime location. This history shapes jobs at University of North Carolina Wilmington, prioritizing interdisciplinary work and practical applications.
Over decades, UNCW has grown its faculty from dozens to over 600, fostering a culture where research informs teaching. Historical expansions, like the Cameron School of Business and Watson College of Education, created specialized roles in emerging fields.
UNCW's seven colleges—Arts and Sciences, Cameron School of Business, Education, Health and Applied Human Sciences, Lower Cape Fear Hospital Alliance School of Nursing, Watson College of Education, and Creative Writing—host programs fueling job demand. Marine Biology and Oceanography lead research hires, while Film Studies and Psychology attract creative and social science experts.
Faculty jobs often align with these strengths; for instance, biology departments seek experts in aquaculture. Explore university job types for breakdowns of faculty versus staff roles.
To navigate jobs at University of North Carolina Wilmington, key terms include:
For faculty positions at UNCW, a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or terminal degree (e.g., MFA for creative writing, MD for nursing) in the relevant field is standard. Entry-level assistant professors need recent PhD completion, while associate or full professors require proven leadership.
Administrative roles like department chairs demand advanced degrees plus management experience. Research assistants typically hold a bachelor's or master's. UNCW verifies credentials through transcripts and references.
UNCW's research emphasizes coastal resilience, marine ecosystems, and data analytics. Expertise in GIS (Geographic Information Systems), climate modeling, or shark ecology is prized. Centers like the Center for Coastal Science and Technology drive hires for grant-funded projects.
Candidates should align with strategic plans, such as UNCW's Climate Change Initiative. See tips in postdoctoral success.
Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications (3-5 for assistant professors), external grants (e.g., NSF funding), and teaching diverse students. Skills like grant writing, mentoring undergraduates, and interdisciplinary collaboration stand out.
Competencies: Strong communication, adaptability to hybrid teaching, and commitment to equity. Review academic CV tips.
UNCW uses its online portal (jobs.uncw.edu) or platforms like AcademicJobs.com. Submit:
Tips: Customize for UNCW's coastal focus; quantify achievements (e.g., "Mentored 50 students"); network at conferences. Deadlines are strict—apply early. Prepare for interviews with teaching demos and research talks.
UNCW's Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion leads efforts like the Inclusive Excellence Framework, targeting underrepresented hires. Programs include faculty search committee training, affinity groups (e.g., Black Faculty Network), and the ADVANCE grant for women in STEM.
In 2023, 25% of new hires were from diverse backgrounds, exceeding goals. Initiatives foster belonging through cultural events and bias training.
Wilmington's beaches, rivers, and mild climate enhance life at UNCW. Faculty enjoy flexible schedules, sabbaticals every 7 years, and 4/4 teaching loads in some departments. Campus features hiking trails, wellness centers, and family housing.
Employee assistance includes 24 paid holidays, generous PTO, and tuition remission for dependents. The vibrant community hosts arts festivals and sailing clubs, blending work with recreation.
Salaries: Assistant professors ~$75K-$90K, full professors $120K+. UNC system benefits: TIAA retirement (8.5% match), comprehensive health, dental, vision. Additional perks: lab funding, conference travel, childcare subsidies.
UNCW combines research prestige with quality of life. Its R2 status (high research) offers growth, while Wilmington's economy supports dual-career couples. For faculty, low student-faculty ratio (17:1) enables impact.
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Jobs at University of North Carolina Wilmington blend academic excellence with coastal charm. Explore openings via higher ed jobs, refine skills with higher ed career advice, or browse university jobs. Institutions like UNCW seek dedicated talent—post a job if hiring.
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