Instructor, Astronomy - Adjunct Pool Requisition

Houston City College; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 15,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

Houston Community College is seeking an adjunct instructor in Astronomy to provide high-quality instruction, align courses with college standards, and support student learning across modalities. The incumbent will develop syllabi, teach courses with varied methods, and maintain accurate records while leveraging technology in the classroom.

The role includes academic advising, participation in professional development, and contributing to department activities as needed.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in astronomy or a related field with 18 graduate hours in astronomy or space studies.
• Experience/philosophy of teaching at the college level preferred.
• Copy of transcript conferring degree must accompany application.

Responsibilities

• Teach courses at various times, locations, and modalities as needed.
• Develop and use a syllabus for each course and submit to department chair.
• Evaluate student progress and maintain accurate records.
• Utilize LMS materials and technology to support instruction.
• Participate in academic advising and department activities.
• Contribute to professional development and program accreditation.

Skills

Teaching

Communication

Planning and organizing

Adaptability to diverse learners

Technology in classroom

Education

Master’s degree with 18 graduate hours in Astronomy or related field

Transcript conferring required degree

Tools

LMS (Learning Management System)

Job description

Instructor, Astronomy - Adjunct Pool Requisition

Provide the expertise and knowledge that supports the college curriculum and programs. Establish courses following accepted higher education standards, teach students using a variety of effective methodologies and provide engagement and support activities that encourage student learning. The role of the Instructional Faculty encompasses teaching and learning, academic advising, professional development, and institutional and community service.

The incumbent may teach a maximum load of 9.75 contact hours per week each semester in area(s) of competency and participate as a part‑time instructor in the activities of the department, division, and college.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Teaching

• Demonstrate skill and/or knowledge in teaching discipline.
• Make continuous efforts to improve the quality of instruction by reviewing and utilizing innovative methodologies, techniques, and delivery methods.
• Develop and use a syllabus for each course or laboratory within college, discipline, and departmental guidelines and submit one copy to the department chair.
• Plan, develop, and use a variety of teaching methods and materials that assist students in meeting course objectives, and which are appropriate for students with differing educational and experiential backgrounds and learning styles.
• Evaluate students to measure their progress toward achievement of stated course objectives and inform them of their progress in the course in a timely manner.
• Keep accurate student records and submit related reports and forms within requested timelines.
• Review, evaluate, and recommend student textbooks and learning materials.
• Teach courses at a variety of times, locations, and modalities in response to institutional programmatic needs.
• Develop and maintain an LMS (Learning Management System) shell for each assigned course.
• Use equipment and facilities responsibly and courteously. Where appropriate, assist the chair with the routine maintenance of instructional laboratories.
• Demonstrate competence and interest in the use of technology in the classroom and willingness to explore new instructional methodologies.

Academic Advising

• Maintain professional relationships with students, colleagues, and the community.
• Provide access to students through posted office hours, electronic communication, and other appropriate methods. Provide advice and assistance to students regarding instructional or program‑specific issues during class time and office hours.

Professional Development

• Establish annual objectives for professional growth in consultation with the department chair.
• Keep pace with developments in the discipline.
• Learn technologies that support student learning.
• Participate in department‑required annual evaluation process.

Institutional and Community Service

• Part‑time faculty are encouraged but not required to participate in department’s, college, or district committees and governance organizations.
• Be familiar with and adhere to all policies and procedures of HCCS.
• Participate in activities required to maintain program and college accreditation standards.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential duties and responsibilities listed above. The qualifications listed below are representative of the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required.

EDUCATION

Master’s degree (or higher) with 18 completed graduate hours in Astronomy, Aerospace Engineering, Astrophysics, Space Studies, Applied Physics, Physics, Planetary Science or related field required.

A Master’s degree (or higher) with extensive Astronomy experience and/or Astronomy training may be considered in lieu of 18 graduate hours in a qualifying field.

Copy of transcript conferring required degree and certifications must accompany application.

EXPERIENCE

1 year college‑level teaching experience preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

1. Willing and able to teach day or evening classes at a number of sites around the city.
2. Knowledge and skill in a variety of computer usage and software are required.
3. Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively.
4. Possess good organizational and planning skills.
5. Demonstrate sensitivity to students with different academic and socio‑economic backgrounds and students with disabilities.
6. Demonstrated ability to inspire and motivate students in a learning‑centered environment.
7. Self‑disciplined and able to effectively manage others.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job‑related instructions and to perform any other job‑related duties requested by their supervisor.

This job description may be revised upon development of other duties and changes in responsibilities.

EEO Statement

Houston Community College does not discriminate on the bases of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity and expression, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or veteran’s status. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non‑discrimination policies:

Sandra Jacobson, Interim Director EEO/Compliance/Title IX Coordinator

Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX

PO Box 667517

Houston TX, 77266

713 718.8271 or [e-mail]

Individuals with disabilities, who require special accommodations to interview, should contact (713) 718‑8565.