Assistant Teaching Professor in Chinese

Worcester Polytechnic Institute; Worcester (MA); On-site; USD 78,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) invites applications for a full-time, non-tenure track teaching faculty position in Chinese to begin in August 2027.

The assistant teaching professor will teach eight courses per year across a seven-week term schedule, delivering engaging Mandarin instruction to undergraduates while collaborating with colleagues on the Humanities & Arts faculty and supporting WPI's Global Asia initiatives.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Ed.D. in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language or related field preferred.
• Master's degree may be considered for Instructor level.
• Formal training in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language or second language acquisition is required.

Responsibilities

• Teach eight courses per academic year (two per 7-week term).
• Deliver engaging Mandarin instruction to undergraduates.
• Work collaboratively and independently on departmental and institutional initiatives.
• Apply innovative pedagogical approaches and best practices in instruction.

Skills

Teaching Chinese

Curriculum development

Collaboration

Education

Ph.D. or Ed.D. in teaching Chinese as a foreign language

Master's degree considered for Instructor level

Job description

Job Description Summary

The Department of Humanities and Arts at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) invites applications for a full-time, non-tenure track teaching faculty position in Chinese to begin in August 2027. While not tenure-eligible, this position is renewable and offers a path to secure continuing contracts.

JOB TITLE

Assistant Teaching Professor in Chinese

LOCATION

Worcester

DEPARTMENT NAME

Humanities & Arts

DIVISION NAME

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

We are seeking a dedicated language educator who can work both collaboratively and independently and also contribute to WPI's Global Asia initiatives. The ideal candidate is adaptable, thrives in a dynamic academic environment, and is committed to ongoing professional growth. WPI operates on a distinctive seven-week term schedule, consisting of four terms per academic year. The hired faculty member will teach 8 courses per year (2 courses per term).

Responsibilities

• Teach 8 courses per academic year: two courses per 7-week term
• Deliver effective, engaging, and inclusive Chinese language instruction to undergraduate students.
• Work both collaboratively and independently, contributing to broader departmental and institutional initiatives.
• Practice innovative pedagogical approaches and deliver instruction based on established best practices.

Qualifications

• Education & Credentials: A Ph.D. or Ed.D. in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language, Second Language Acquisition or a related field is preferred. A highly qualified candidate with a Master's degree may be considered for appointment at the Instructor level. Formal training in teaching Chinese as a foreign language and/or second language acquisition/language education is required.
• Language: Native or near-native proficiency in Mandarin Chinese and professional-level proficiency in English are required.
• Teaching Experience: A minimum of 5 years of experience teaching Chinese at multiple levels at the college level in the United States is required, as well as familiarity with a variety of teaching methods.
• Professional Qualities: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and independently, a willingness to adapt and learn, and a clear record of professional growth.

Salary

$78,000 - $82,000. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity. WPI's benefits package includes a robust retirement match, wellness perks, tuition assistance and more.

FLSA STATUS

United States of America (Exempt)

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.

About WPI

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is a vibrant community of extraordinary students,talented and dedicated staff, and world-renowned faculty. Along with its state-of-the‑art research facilities, WPI, offers competitive and comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, life and long-term disability insurance, retirement savings plans, tuition assistance, flexible spending and health savings accounts, and a working environment that prioritizes mental health and well-being. It is a community committed to civility and respect—making inclusion and belonging a reality for everyone on its campus.