Instructor, Exercise Science (FT)

Inside Higher Ed; Portland (OR); On-site; Full time

Job summary

A community college in Oregon invites applications for a full-time Instructor in Exercise Science for its program, starting Fall 2026. The successful candidate will teach a variety of Exercise Science courses and develop the curriculum in alignment with industry standards. Candidates must have a Master’s degree in a relevant field and experience in teaching and mentoring, focusing on culturally responsive education. This position offers leadership opportunities and requires engagement in a supportive academic environment.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Physical Education or related field and 3 years of industry experience.
• Successful completion of CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications.
• Experience teaching or leading practical lab sessions.

Responsibilities

• Teach a range of Exercise Science courses in lectures and labs.
• Update curriculum aligned with industry and national standards.
• Support course planning and assessment across campuses.

Skills

Teaching adults in fitness-based classes

Mentoring faculty and staff

Building inclusive classroom environments

Education

Master’s degree in relevant field

Bachelor’s degree plus Master’s in any field

Tools

Technology for blended or online instruction

Job description

Instructor, Exercise Science (FT)

Portland Community College (PCC) invites applications for a full‑time continuous (probationary) instructor in its Exercise Science program beginning Fall 2026. The position is based primarily at the Sylvania Campus but may require teaching at other PCC campuses or off‑site locations. The focus is on delivering academic leadership, curriculum development, and support for students and staff in a culturally responsive environment.

Responsibilities

• Teach a broad range of Exercise Science courses, including theoretical lectures and practical laboratory sessions.
• Develop and update curriculum aligned with industry standards and National Exercise Science Standards.
• Provide academic leadership and mentor part‑time faculty and staff.
• Support course planning, assessment, and student services across PCC campuses.
• Engage in program planning, research, and initiatives that promote equity, diversity, inclusion, and culturally responsive education.
• Participate in shared governance, professional development, and outreach activities as required.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Physical Education, Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Sports Psychology, Sports Fitness, Kinesiology, Human Performance, or related field and 3 years of industry experience.
• OR Bachelor’s degree in the above fields plus a Master’s degree in any field and 3 years of industry experience.
• Successful completion of CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in the above PA or related field.
• Three years recent experience teaching adults in fit‑based classes.
• Capability to teach at least one Professional Activities class (Group Fitness, Weight Training, Mind‑Body, Team Sports, Special Populations, Older Adult Fitness, or Aquatics).
• Experience teaching/leading practical lab sessions (anatomy, kinesiology, fitness assessment, metabolic cart, ECG, GXT, etc.).
• Proficiency in using technology for blended or online instruction.

Success Criteria

• Evidence of teaching, mentoring, or supervising in Exercise Science with culturally responsive curriculum.
• Demonstrated ability to build inclusive classroom communities online and in person.
• Experience managing projects, working with program assets, and fostering equity‑focused learning environments.
• Knowledge of National Exercise Science Standards and evidence‑based practices.
• Strong communication skills with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Information

Qualifications are aligned with the PCC Faculty Agreement. PCC complies with the Oregon Veterans' Preference in Public Employment. The institution is committed to equity, inclusion and cultural responsiveness. Veterans and disabled veterans are encouraged to submit verification documents through the HR department.

Application Process

Submit an application, letter of intent, and résumé through Workday. In your letter, describe how your experience relates to the job summary, meets the minimum qualifications, and aligns with our success criteria. Selected candidates will receive supplemental questions and a formal interview and teaching demonstration.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Portland Community College is an Equal Opportunity Employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or any other protected class.