Adjunct - Chemistry

Rock Valley College; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 34,000 - 55,000; Part time

Job summary

Rock Valley College seeks an Adjunct - Chemistry to teach in-person introductory chemistry courses in the Mathematics & Sciences (MAS) department. The position supports both science and non-science majors and requires course preparation, delivery of lectures and laboratory exercises, and ongoing student engagement.

The role involves using the college's LMS for grading and records, maintaining current knowledge in the field, and collaborating with colleagues on departmental initiatives.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in chemistry or closely related discipline.
• Master's degree with at least 18 graduate hours in chemistry.
• Commitment to the community college mission.

Responsibilities

• Teach assigned in-person classes and perform activities related to classroom instruction.
• Course preparation including selecting texts and preparing lectures, labs, assignments, and assessments.
• Foster an inclusive and supportive classroom environment and be available to students outside class.
• Evaluate student performance using various assessments and provide feedback.
• Collaborate with colleagues and participate in department initiatives and meetings.
• Adhere to college policies, FERPA, and higher education standards.

Skills

Teaching

Chemistry knowledge

Student engagement

Assessment

Education

Master's in Chemistry

18 graduate hours in Chemistry

Tools

Curriculum development

Job description

Position Title: Adjunct - Chemistry

Department: Mathematics & Sciences (MAS)

Division: Mathematics & Sciences (MAS)

Employee Status: Adjunct (Fall, Spring, and/or Summer Semesters)

Group: NA

Grade: Adjunct

FLSA: Non-Exempt

ICCB Classification: Teaching Faculty

Issued: April 2025

Updated: 4/25

Application Deadline: Tuesday, October 27, 2026

Rock Valley College does not offer sponsorship for employment-based visas for this position now or in the future. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.

Reporting Relationships

Reports to: Dean of Mathematics & Sciences

Supervision Exercised: None

Job Summary

Teach assigned in-person classes and perform activities related to classroom instruction.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Additional related duties may be assigned.

• Teaching:
  • Instruct students in lecture and laboratory components introductory chemistry classes for science and non-science majors.
  • Meet classes at assigned times.
• Course Preparation:
  • Select appropriate texts and teaching materials.
  • Prepare and deliver lectures, laboratory exercises, assignments, and assessments that align with course objectives and learning outcomes.
  • Keep informed on the latest research and journal articles.
• Student Engagement:
  • Foster an inclusive and supportive classroom environment that encourages active participation and engagement.
  • Provide availability for student interaction outside of class (1 hour weekly minimum per 3 credit hours)
• Assessment and Feedback:
  • Evaluate student performance through a variety of assessment methods. Provide constructive feedback to support student improvement.
  • Utilize Rock Valley College's chosen Learning Management System (LMS) for all grading, assignments, communication, and student records.
  • Prepare course/class reports as required.
• Collaboration:
  • Work collaboratively with colleagues and contribute to the department's initiatives and activities.
  • Attend college meetings when available (faculty, division, in-service training, etc.).
• Compliance:
  • Adhere to college policies, procedures, and academic standards.
  • Adhere to Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and any and policies or laws that govern higher education at Rock Valley College.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's degree in chemistry or closely related discipline OR a Master's degree with at least 18 graduate hours in chemistry.
• Commitment to the community college mission.

Preferred Qualifications

• Terminal degree in chemistry or a closely related discipline is preferred.
• Teaching experience in college-level courses is preferred.
• Experience with curriculum development and assessment is preferred.
• Interest in involvement in division and college initiatives.
• Familiarity with online teaching platforms and digital resources for science education instruction is preferred.

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee works in a classroom setting.

Physical Demands

Physical Demands Described Here Are Representative Of Those That Must Be Met By An Employee To Successfully Perform The Essential Functions Of This Job

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools or controls, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to stand, talk and hear.