The University of Northern Iowa (UNI), located in Cedar Falls, Iowa, is a public institution renowned for its commitment to teacher education, business administration, and health professions. As a Carnegie-classified Doctoral University with High Research Activity, UNI offers diverse career opportunities for academics, researchers, and administrators. Jobs at University of Northern Iowa span faculty positions, staff roles, and executive leadership, attracting professionals seeking impactful work in higher education.
With approximately 9,000 students and over 900 faculty, UNI emphasizes student success and community engagement. Careers here provide stability in the United States' Midwest, with competitive salaries and benefits tailored to Iowa's cost of living. Whether you're pursuing tenure-track roles or support positions, UNI's focus on innovation makes it a top choice for higher ed jobs.
Founded in 1876 as the Iowa State Normal School, UNI evolved into a comprehensive university emphasizing practical education. It became the State Teachers College in 1909, then Iowa State Teachers College in 1941, and adopted its current name in 1961. Key milestones include establishing the College of Education in 1938 and expanding research capabilities in the 2000s. This rich history shapes jobs at University of Northern Iowa, prioritizing pedagogical excellence and regional service.
UNI's growth reflects Iowa's commitment to public higher education, now part of the University of Northern Iowa system alongside the University of Iowa and Iowa State University. Historical emphasis on teacher training influences current openings in education departments.
UNI's seven colleges—Education, Business Administration, Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Social Work, and Applied Human Sciences—drive job opportunities. The College of Education, UNI's flagship, hires for teaching methods and special education. Business recruits for accountancy and management, while health sciences seek nursing and kinesiology experts.
Research centers like the Center for Social and Behavioral Research offer postdoc and assistant roles. Explore university job types for specifics on faculty versus staff positions.
Faculty jobs include assistant, associate, and full professors, lecturers, and adjuncts. Research positions encompass postdocs, research associates, and assistants. Administrative roles cover deans, directors, HR, and IT. Staff openings in facilities, student services, and athletics support campus operations.
UNI posts openings on its HR site and platforms like university jobs boards.
Jobs at University of Northern Iowa demand rigorous qualifications. Faculty roles typically require a PhD in the relevant field (e.g., EdD for education positions). Research focus aligns with UNI strengths like STEM education or sustainable business.
Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications, grant funding from agencies like the National Science Foundation, and teaching portfolios. Skills and competencies encompass:
Entry-level research assistants need bachelor's/master's plus lab experience.
Tenure-track position: A faculty job leading to permanent employment after review, involving teaching, research, and service.
Postdoctoral researcher: A temporary role post-PhD for advanced research training, often 1-3 years.
Adjunct professor: Part-time instructor without tenure benefits.
Carnegie Classification: U.S. framework categorizing universities by research activity; UNI is R2 (High research).
To apply for jobs at University of Northern Iowa, visit careers.uni.edu. Submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, and references online. The process includes screening, interviews (virtual/in-person), and campus visits for finalists.
Actionable tips:
Applications reviewed year-round, but prioritize deadlines.
UNI's Division of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Leadership actively recruits underrepresented groups. Initiatives include the UNI Pride Center for LGBTQ+ support, Multicultural & International Student Services, and the Bias Response Team. The university's Strategic Plan prioritizes inclusive excellence, with hiring goals for faculty of color. Examples: Annual Diversity Leadership Awards and training workshops. These efforts create equitable workplaces, appealing to diverse candidates.
In Cedar Falls, Iowa, UNI fosters balance with 24 paid holidays, generous parental leave, and EAP counseling. Faculty sabbaticals every 7 years support research. Campus life features the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center, wellness center, and trails along the Cedar River. Employees enjoy tuition remission for dependents and discounts. The friendly Midwest culture, low crime, and proximity to Waterloo-Cedar Falls metro enhance quality of life. Join clubs or attend Panthers athletics for community.
Jobs at University of Northern Iowa offer rewarding paths in education and research amid a supportive environment. From faculty to admin, opportunities abound in Cedar Falls. Explore more higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com. Check openings in Iowa university jobs today.
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