Adjunct Instructor, Physics

Prairie State College; Chicago Heights (IL); Hybrid; USD 3,000 - 5,000; Part time

Job summary

Prairie State College seeks an adjunct faculty member to teach introductory, algebra-based, and calculus-based physics courses at the college level for Fall 2026 and beyond. The candidate will teach PHYSI 210 – University Physics I, a key course in a three-semester calculus-based sequence for pre-engineering and science majors.

The position uses a hybrid delivery model. The ideal candidate holds an MS in Physics (PhD preferred) and has proven experience with college-level physics instruction,

Qualifications

• Master of Science degree with a minimum of 18 graduate credit hours in physics or a closely related field.
• Experience teaching introductory, algebra-based, and calculus-based physics at the college level.
• Experience conducting and setting up computer-based physics laboratory activities.
• Evidence of certification or course completion in online teaching.
• Demonstrated commitment to teaching and learning.

Responsibilities

• Teach PHYSI 210 – University Physics I in Fall 2026 and beyond.
• Deliver hybrid instruction for the course.
• Develop and update lectures and laboratory activities in line with curriculum.
• Assess student work and provide timely feedback.

Skills

Teaching physics

Lab activities

Online teaching

Communication skills

Commitment to teaching

Education

MS in Physics

PhD in Physics (preferred)

Tools

Learning Management Systems (LMS)

Online teaching tools

Lab simulation software

Job description

Please see Special Instructions for more details.

All applications must be submitted electronically.

Posting Number

Posting Number Fac0454P

Classification

Classification Adjunct

Position Number

Position Title

Position Title Adjunct Instructor, Physics

Position Type

Position Type Adjunct Faculty

Status of Position

Status of Position Adjunct Faculty

Union

Union Adjunct

Position Summary

Prairie State College seeks an adjunct faculty member who is qualified to teach introductory, algebra-based, and calculus-based physics courses at the college level for Fall 2026 and beyond.

Course available in Fall 2026:

PHYSI 210 – University Physics I

August 17, 2026 – December 10, 2026

Delivery Mode:

Hybrid

University Physics I is the first course in a three-semester calculus-based sequence designed for pre-engineering, science, and mathematics majors. Topics include measurements and vectors; motion in one, two, and three dimensions; Newton’s laws of motion and their applications; work and kinetic energy; conservation of energy and momentum; rotation and angular momentum; static equilibrium and elasticity; fluid mechanics; gravitation; and oscillations.

Reporting Relationship

Other Duties and Responsibilities

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Master of Science degree with a minimum of 18 graduate credit hours in physics or a closely related field.
• Experience teaching introductory, algebra-based, and calculus-based physics courses at the college level.
• Experience conducting and setting up computer-based physics laboratory activities for the course(s) listed above.
• Evidence of certification or course completion in the area of on-line teaching.
• Demonstrated commitment to teaching and learning.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, or a closely related field.
• Proficiency with instructional technologies, including online learning management systems.
• Experience teaching traditional and nontraditional students from diverse backgrounds.

Anticipated Work Hours and Days

Salary Commiserate with PSC Adjunct scale

N/A

Posting Date

Posting Date 08/11/2026

Closing Date

Open Until Filled Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants

All applications must be submitted electronically.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * Do you have a Master of Science degree with a minimum of 18 graduate credit hours in physics or a closely related field?
  • yes
  • no
• * Do you have experience teaching introductory, algebra-based, and calculus-based physics courses at the college level?
  • yes
  • no
• * Do you have experience conducting and setting up computer-based physics laboratory activities for the course(s) listed above?
  • yes
  • no
• * Do you have evidence of certification or course completion in the area of on-line teaching?
  • yes
  • no
• * Do you have excellent communication skills?
  • Yes
  • No
• * Do you have demonstrated commitment to teaching and learning?
  • yes
  • no
• * How did you hear about this employment opportunity?
  • Prairie State College Website
  • Inside Higher Ed Jobs
  • Chronicle of HigherEd
  • HigherEd jobs
  • Other

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Unofficial Transcripts
• Teaching Philosophy
• Copy of Professional License/Certification

Optional Documents