Adjunct Instructor, Astronomy

Des Moines Area Community College; Ankeny (IA); On-site; USD 1,377,600 - 2,066,400; Part time

Job summary

Des Moines Area Community College is seeking an Adjunct Instructor for Astronomy for the Fall Semester 2026 and Spring Semester 2027. The instructor will teach undergraduate courses in astronomy, employing diverse instructional strategies to meet the varied learning styles of students.

Qualified candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Astronomy or a related field and demonstrate the ability to create a professional learning environment. This role requires commitment for the upcoming academic year, with specific days and times yet to be determined.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Astronomy or a related discipline with 12 graduate hours in science, including 6 in Astronomy.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain professional relationships across diverse backgrounds.
• Legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate astronomy courses using various instructional strategies.
• Develop instructional strategies to cater to different learning styles.
• Monitor and document student attendance and progress.

Skills

Ability to establish professional relationships

Teaching experience in astronomy

Education

Master’s degree in Astronomy or related field

Job description

Position Information

Job Title: Adjunct Instructor, Astronomy

Campus: Various Locations, IA

Job Number: 26-ADJ72

Employment Date: Fall Semester 2026 / Spring Semester 2027

Job Category: Adjunct Faculty

Application & Position Contact Information

Contact: Rich Roberts ([e-mail])

Salary Information

$1,123 per Equivalent Credit Hour (ECH)

Job Summary

Adjunct Astronomy Instructor for the Fall Semester 2026 and Spring Semester 2027. Teach assigned undergraduate courses in astronomy, using a variety of instructional strategies to meet diverse student learning styles.

Essential Functions

• Teach assigned courses in accordance with course competencies and syllabi.
• Develop and/or utilize a variety of instructional strategies, techniques, and delivery methods designed to meet individual learning styles.
• Foster a safe and civil learning environment.
• Inform students about course requirements, evaluation procedures, and attendance policies.
• Monitor, evaluate, and document student attendance, progress, and competency attainment.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Astronomy or a master’s degree with 12 graduate hours in science of which 6 graduate hours must be in Astronomy or Astrophysics.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain a professional working relationship with a wide variety of individuals from varied backgrounds.
• Legally eligible to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.

Desired Qualifications

• Teaching experience in astronomy or related fields.

Work Schedule

Fall Semester 2026 and Spring Semester 2027. Days and times to be determined.

Posting Information

Posting Date: 05/28/2026.

Deadline for Submitting Applications: Open Until Filled.

Special Instructions

DMACC is an affirmative action and equal employment opportunity employer. Individuals with disabilities desiring reasonable accommodations in the application process should notify Human Resources at 515-964-6479 or by email [e-mail].

THIS VACANCY REQUIRES:

• A complete DMACC Employment Application in English (complete personal information, educational history, employment history, and supplemental questions). Incomplete applications— or comment “See Resume”—will not be accepted.
• Attachment of transcripts (if required). Transcripts must include the applicant’s name and degrees conferred. Scanned copies are acceptable.

EEO Statement

Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group, or organization, including race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, and parental status. Contact the Office of Civil Rights for discrimination complaints.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * Do you hold the required Master’s degree or any Master’s degree plus 12 graduate semester credits in the required discipline?

  (Open Ended Question)

• * How did you learn about this job opening?
  • DMACC Employee Referral
  • Friend/Relative
  • Indeed.com
  • TeachIowa.gov
  • HigherEdJobs
  • The Chronicle of Higher Education
  • Inside Higher Ed
  • LinkedIn
  • Iowa Workforce Development
  • DMACC Website
  • DMACC Applicant Job Alert Email
  • Other
• * Have you completed the DMACC Employment Application (all personal information, educational history, employment history, and supplemental questions)?
  • Yes
  • No (If no, please return to the application and complete all additional information.)