Walla Walla University (WWU), located in the small town of College Place, Washington, is a private liberal arts institution affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Founded in 1892, it has grown into a respected university known for its commitment to academic excellence, faith-based education, and community service. With around 1,400 students, WWU offers a close-knit environment where faculty and staff play pivotal roles in shaping future leaders. Jobs at Walla Walla University attract professionals passionate about integrating faith and learning, particularly in fields like engineering, nursing, business, music, and theology.
The university's campus spans 77 acres in the scenic Walla Walla Valley, near the Blue Mountains, providing a peaceful setting for work and life. As part of the Adventist higher education system, employment emphasizes a shared Christian worldview, with Sabbath observance influencing schedules. Careers here blend rigorous academics with spiritual growth, appealing to those seeking meaningful work in higher education.
Jobs at Walla Walla University span faculty, staff, and administrative roles. Faculty positions include tenure-track professors, adjunct lecturers, and visiting scholars in departments such as engineering (accredited by ABET), nursing (CCNE-accredited), and social work. Staff roles cover admissions, student services, facilities, and IT. Administrative jobs include deans, department chairs, and HR specialists. For a full breakdown, explore university job types.
Engineering jobs are prominent, with programs in mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering drawing applicants interested in hands-on, innovative teaching.
Academic qualifications vary by role. Faculty positions typically require a PhD or EdD in the relevant discipline. For example, a professor of biology needs a PhD in biological sciences, while engineering faculty hold doctorates in their specialty. Lecturer or adjunct roles may accept a master's degree plus professional experience. Theology positions prioritize seminary training like an MDiv alongside Adventist ordination or endorsement.
Staff roles demand bachelor's degrees, with advanced degrees preferred for specialized positions like counselors (master's in counseling). All candidates must demonstrate compatibility with the university's Christian mission through a statement of faith.
WWU encourages research that aligns with its mission, focusing on undergraduate mentorship. Expertise in sustainable engineering, health sciences, and interdisciplinary studies is valued. Faculty often publish in journals like the Journal of Adventist Education or engineering conferences. Research assistants support grants from sources like the National Science Foundation. Preferred areas include renewable energy, public health, and biblical studies, reflecting the university's values.
Preferred experience includes 3-5 years of teaching, publications (5+ peer-reviewed papers), and grant success. Skills encompass curriculum development, student mentoring, and technology integration (e.g., Canvas LMS). Competencies like cultural sensitivity, teamwork, and ethical leadership are crucial in this faith-centered environment. For research roles, proficiency in lab techniques or data analysis software is key. See postdoctoral success tips for related advice.
The application process starts on the WWU HR website or platforms like higher ed jobs. Submit a CV, cover letter, teaching philosophy, faith statement, transcripts, and references. Interviews involve campus visits, teaching demos, and mission fit discussions.
Actionable tips:
Deadlines align with academic calendars; check academic calendar for timing.
WWU fosters diversity through the Office of Inclusion, recruiting from underrepresented groups, and programs like Multicultural Student Union support. Initiatives include bias training, affinity groups for ethnic minorities, and scholarships for diverse students, extending to staff hiring. The university's faith foundation promotes equity, with examples like partnerships with Hispanic Adventist communities and women in STEM events.
Work-life balance at WWU emphasizes wellness, with no classes on Sabbath (Saturday), allowing rest and worship. Campus life offers hiking in nearby gardens, community vespers, and family events. Benefits include health insurance, retirement matching, tuition remission for dependents, and professional development leave. The small-town setting in College Place provides low cost of living and proximity to Walla Walla's wineries and farms, ideal for balanced living.
Employees enjoy a supportive culture, with low turnover due to mission alignment and community bonds.
WWU supports growth via sabbaticals every 6 years, conference funding, and the Faculty Development Committee. Faculty pursue research jobs and publications, with tenure reviews encouraging advancement. Leadership tracks lead to chairs or deanships.
In summary, jobs at Walla Walla University offer rewarding opportunities in a faith-driven setting. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com. Located in Washington, connect via Washington university jobs or College Place jobs.
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