Full-Time Lecturer AY - Communication Studies (26/27)

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 5,507 - 15,221; Full time

Job summary

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is hiring a Full-time Lecturer in the Communication Studies Department to teach foundational and upper-division courses in oral communication. Candidates must hold an A.B.D. or Ph.D. in Communication and possess a proven teaching record. The position offers a competitive salary based on qualifications and experience, beginning August 17, 2026, with potential for contract extension. A commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment is essential.

Qualifications

• A.B.D. or Ph.D. in Communication or a closely related field.
• Teaching record in oral communication courses.
• Commitment to fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Responsibilities

• Teach foundational lower-division courses in oral communication.
• Contribute to upper-division undergraduate teaching aligned with departmental needs.
• Ensure an inclusive and respectful learning environment.

Skills

Strong written and oral communication skills

Fostering an inclusive learning environment

Successful teaching record in oral communication

Education

A.B.D. or Ph.D. in Communication or closely related field

Job description

Overview

COMMUNICATION STUDIES - Full‑time Lecturer in the Communication Studies Department, College of Liberal Arts, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, California. Recruitment is for multiple positions, each with a two‑year appointment for the 26/27 and 27/28 Academic Years with the possibility of a one‑year extension to AY 28/29 contingent on budget, department need, and satisfactory evaluations. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. The position will begin on August 17, 2026.

Primary Responsibilities

Teach foundational lower‑division courses in oral communication (e.g., public speaking, argumentation). Depending on departmental needs and candidate background, there may also be opportunities to teach 200‑level courses such as communication theory, interpersonal communication, organizational communication, small group communication, and media studies.

Contribute to upper‑division undergraduate teaching in areas aligned with departmental needs and the candidate’s expertise. Possible areas include intercultural or intergroup communication, nonverbal communication, family communication, media effects, communication and media politics, or environmental communication.

Teaching Load

5 three‑unit courses per semester, with a total of 30 units across the academic year.

Compensation

Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Education and Rank

A.B.D. or Ph.D. in Communication or a closely related field and a successful teaching record in oral communication courses are required. Initial rank and salary are based on professional experience and educational background. As of July 2024, the classification salary ranges are:

• Lecturer A: $5,507 – $6,677
• Lecturer B: $6,221 – $13,224
• Lecturer C: $6,825 – $14,523
• Lecturer D: $8,593 – $15,221

Required Qualifications

• A.B.D. or Ph.D. in Communication or a closely related field.
• Teaching record in oral communication courses.
• Evidence of a demonstrated commitment to successful undergraduate teaching.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• History of fostering an inclusive and respectful learning environment that supports all perspectives and student backgrounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• Commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment for all learners.
• Relevant work experience and professional capabilities that enhance teaching.

Equal Opportunity Statement

This position is open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, Cal Poly provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Cal Poly complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209, and applicable state and federal anti‑discrimination laws. The university prohibits discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation, all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all programs, policies, and practices.

Special Conditions

All CSU employees are designated “mandated reporters” under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act. As a condition of employment, candidates must comply with CSU Executive Order 1083 and subsequent amendments. A background check, including a criminal records check, must be completed satisfactorily before employment may commence. Background checks are required for any position that is classified as sensitive or mandated by law. Cal Poly is a smoke‑ and tobacco‑free campus and is committed to promoting a healthy environment for all members of the community. In accordance with the California State University Out‑of‑State Employment Policy, the university does not hire employees to perform CSU‑related work outside California.