Assistant Professor: Sociology - Native Peoples and Nations ID#7462

Job Summary

Central Washington University is recruiting a Assistant Professor Sociology - Native Peoples and Nations to join our Sociology team in Ellensburg, Washington. This role is an important member of our team as they enhance the vision for the University. The role is a campus-based position, which means you get to see the lives you are impacting. We're offering a competitive salary plus the awesome CWU benefits.

The Role: 

The Department of Sociology at Central Washington University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor position beginning September 16, 2027. We seek a teacher-scholar specializing in Native Peoples and Nations, with expertise in Native and Indigenous sociology and a commitment to undergraduate education. Preference will be given to candidates whose work focuses on Native communities in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. Responsibilities include teaching sociology courses, maintaining an active research program, advising and mentoring students, supervising internships, and contributing service to the department, university, and community. Opportunities may also exist for interdisciplinary teaching and collaboration with programs such as American Indian Studies and Cultural & Environmental Resource Management. Successful candidates will support CWU's mission and foster an inclusive learning environment that promotes student success.

 Address both minimum and preferred qualification in your cover letter.

Minimum Qualifications:  

• A PhD in sociology or closely related social science field (ABD candidates may be considered; however, the PhD must be completed before start date)
• Demonstrated academic background and expertise in Native Peopls and nations (including Native American, American Indian, Alaska native, First Nations, and related communities)
• Demonstrated ability - or willingness - to teach a wide range of sociology courses at all levels and modalities
• Possess superior teaching abilities
• Ability to meet or exceed tenure requirements
• Teaching, research, services or other experience that has prepared the candidate to contribute to CWU's commitment to the engagement of students from a variety of backgrounds

Preferred Qualifications

• Specialization in Native Peoples and Nations in the Pacific Northwest region
• University-level teaching experience
• Experience in developing and teaching in-person and online courses
• Scholarship/creative activities interests
• Service interests
• Demonstrated commitment to improving access to higher education for students through teaching and/or mentoring activities

Annual Salary: $65,136 - $68,000, based on a full-time nine-month appointment.
In accordance with RCW 49.58.110, the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the range is based on the candidate's current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position.

Appointment: Full-Time, Tenure-Track, 9 Month Appointment. Additional Summer teaching may be available. 

Benefits: CWU offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement and optional savings plans, life and disability insurance. CWU Benefits, Perks & Discounts Overview. 

NOTE: Sponsorship is not available for this position at this time.

How To Apply

Complete the on-line application: https://www.cwu.edu/about/offices/human-resources/careers/index.php

Click Search CWU Employee Jobs 

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Read the job description information and then click on the black "Apply for Job" button in top right side of screen.

When applying you will need to attach the following:

• A detailed cover letter explaining your interest in this position and clearly demonstrating how your education and experience qualify you to perform the responsibilities as described by the posting. This statement should include three components: 
• (a) how you meet the required and preferred qualifications;
• (b) how your teaching, service, and/or scholarship has supported students from pluralistic societies that are underrepresented in their academic fields (applicants who have not yet had the opportunity for such experience should note how their work will further CWU's commitment to access and opportunity);
• (c) share a research statement that describes your plans for development of a research program at CWU.
• Curriculum Vitae including work history, education, training, and contact information for three professional references (at least one who can specifically comment on teaching); 
• Teaching statement that includes your teaching philosophy and indicates courses you are willing/able to teach; and
• Unofficial copies of transcripts of degrees held.

Screening Begins: October 5, 2026

CWU is an EEO/AA/Title IX/Veteran/Disability Employer.