Job Description

About the Job: Adjunct Faculty – Earth and Space Science

Aurora University (AU) is dedicated to the transformative power of learning, fostering a student-centered environment, and ensuring an equitable experience and opportunity for all. Our culture emphasizes collaboration, generosity, and belonging, making it a unique place for students, faculty, and staff alike.

AU is a private university with a strong public mission, committed to making a difference in people’s lives. We have a long history of resilience and providing access to an education that values innovation, continuous improvement, and positive community impact. We are proud of our service and economic contribution to Illinois, where over 80% of our students remain to live and work, and 90% originate from. We cultivate strong community partnerships to develop the workforce in critical areas such as nursing, education, business, technology, and social work.

We seek passionate and purposeful individuals who reflect the full diversity of Aurora and demonstrate sensitivity and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, ability, identity, and ethnic backgrounds within our community. Joining AU means becoming part of an inclusive, innovative, and equity-focused community that views higher education as a matter of social justice, requiring broad collaboration among faculty, staff, students, and community partners.

At AU, continuous learning is a fundamental aspect of working life. We support and equip all colleagues to realize their full potential through professional development opportunities, a range of tuition benefits, and comprehensive employee benefits.

Position Purpose

Aurora University invites talented adjunct faculty, passionate about teaching and learning, to apply for this position. Adjunct faculty are qualified part-time instructors whose teaching opportunities are based on course demand and staffing needs.

Essential Job Functions

Teaching Responsibilities

Aurora University is seeking qualified instructors to teach NSM-1400: Earth and Space Science. This is an in-person, 16-week course delivered at our Aurora campus, with classes commencing on January 12, 2026.

Available Sections:

• Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 10:40 AM – 11:45 AM
• Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 12:00 PM – 1:05 PM

Course Description: NSM-1400: Earth and Space Science (4 semester hours)

This course provides an overview of the sciences that collectively seek to understand our dynamic Earth and its relationship to the larger universe. It includes material from the fields of geology, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy, through which students will examine the physical laws and natural processes that have shaped and continue to change Earth and the universe. An introduction to astronomy will explore the universe and solar system, covering basic cosmological principles, the life and death of stars, and the objects within our solar system.

Instructors will also be expected to hold weekly meetings with the course coordinator.

Essential Job Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• While a terminal degree is preferred, a master’s degree in Earth Science, Physics, Astronomy, or a related field is required.
• College-level teaching experience preferred.
• Must be able to provide evidence that qualifications align with the minimums listed in our academic credentialing policy.

Skills

The anticipated pay rate for this position is $1,100 per credit hour. This compensation is subject to change at the sole discretion of the university, based on institutional needs. The pay range referenced in the job posting is the budgeted amount the university reasonably expects to pay for this position. The final pay rate will not be below the lowest pay rate listed herein.

Benefit-eligible positions offer excellent benefits including health, dental, life, vision, long-term disability, a 403(b) retirement plan through TIAA, and tuition remission.

Aurora University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The University proudly provides a subset of benefits for Part-Time Faculty:

Part-Time Faculty Benefits:

• Paid Leave Accrual (PLAW): Employees paid via stipend or contract accrue 3.33 hours of paid leave per month of service, based on the contract or appointment period.
• Retirement Benefits: The University offers a 403(b) retirement plan administered by TIAA.
• Employee Assistance Program: Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at no cost to employees and their dependents, providing confidential support and resources whenever and wherever they’re needed.

Additional Community Connections:

• Sports, Play, Etc.: All faculty and staff can attend at no cost.
• Library: All faculty, staff, and their families have access to library materials.
• Bookstore: All faculty and staff receive a 10% discount on insignia, clothing, books, and textbooks.
• Dining Hall: All faculty and staff receive an employee discount at the dining hall.
• Gym Facilities: All faculty and staff have access to on-campus gym facilities, as available.