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Assistant Associate Professor Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Associate Professor information

See Colorado salary details

$43.6K

$92.9K

$162.5K

How much do assistant associate professor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant associate professor in Colorado is $92,867.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,000.00 and $118,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant associate professor?

An Assistant Associate Professor is a faculty member at a college or university who typically holds a tenure-track or tenured position, ranking between Assistant Professor and Associate Professor. However, the title 'Assistant Associate Professor' is uncommon and may be used differently depending on the institution. In most cases, an Assistant Professor is an entry-level position, while an Associate Professor is a mid-level position, often earned after several years of teaching, research, and service. The responsibilities generally include teaching, conducting research, publishing scholarly work, and participating in academic service. Advancement from Assistant to Associate Professor usually involves a rigorous evaluation of performance and contributions to the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant associate professor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Associate Professor, you need an advanced degree (typically a Ph.D.) in your field, a strong record of research, and teaching experience. Familiarity with learning management systems (such as Canvas or Blackboard), research databases, and academic publishing platforms is essential. Outstanding communication, mentorship, and organizational skills distinguish exceptional candidates in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to delivering quality education, advancing research, and fostering student development within the academic environment.

What are some common challenges assistant associate professors face when balancing teaching, research, and service responsibilities?

Assistant Associate Professors often juggle multiple priorities, including developing engaging courses, advancing their research agendas, and fulfilling departmental or university service duties. Managing these responsibilities can be challenging, especially during early career stages when establishing a research profile is critical for promotion. Effective time management, clear communication with colleagues, and seeking mentorship can help navigate these demands. Many institutions offer professional development resources to support faculty in balancing these core areas successfully.

What is the difference between Assistant Associate Professor vs Lecturer?

AspectAssistant Associate ProfessorLecturer
Required credentialsDoctorate or terminal degree in fieldBachelor's or Master's degree, sometimes doctorate
Work environmentAcademic institutions, research, teachingPrimarily teaching, often non-tenure track
Employer and industry usageUniversities, colleges, research institutionsColleges, universities, vocational schools
Common search intentAcademic career progression, research rolesTeaching-focused positions, adjunct or full-time

The main difference between an Assistant Associate Professor and a Lecturer lies in their roles and career paths. Assistant Associate Professors typically hold a doctorate, engage in research, and aim for tenure, while Lecturers focus primarily on teaching without necessarily pursuing research or tenure. Understanding these distinctions helps candidates identify the right position based on their credentials and career goals.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Associate Professor jobs in Colorado? For Assistant Associate Professor jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Assistant Associate Professor jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Assistant Associate Professor job openings:

Open Rank-Assistant, Associate, Professor

University of Colorado

Aurora, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


University Of Colorado Boulder rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

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Job description

University of Colorado Anschutz
Department: Ophthalmology

Job Title: Open Rank-, Assistant, Associate, Professor
Position #00842672 - Requisition #38378
Job Summary:
The Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus is seeking a vision scientist to fill a faculty position at any rank (Assistant, Associate, or Professor level). While any topic of vision science research is welcome, preference will be placed on applicants that synergize with one of our research foci, including neuroimmunology, epidemiology, artificial intelligence, macular degeneration, and ocular regenerative medicine.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Develop a vibrant and productive research portfolio that complements current focal areas within the department.
  • Establish a competitive extramurally funded research program.
  • Actively collaborate with other research teams in the department and across campus.
  • Contribute to multidisciplinary grant applications, team-science initiatives, and clinical translation.
  • Mentor trainees and junior faculty.

Work Location:
Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.
Why Join Us:
Our department's home is the newly expanded Sue Anschutz Rodgers Eye Center on the Anschutz Medical Campus. This state-of-the-art facility is one of the largest eye centers in the country and serves not only patients in the Rocky Mountain region but also patients all over the world.
The technological innovations conceived and developed by Departmental faculty have changed the practice of eye care throughout the world. Our educational programs train the next generation of leaders in ophthalmology. Our specialists have developed national and international reputations for excellence in routine and complex ophthalmic care. We have invested heavily in tracking our clinical outcomes and we are proud that our clinicians perform at the highest levels in their respective fields.
Why work for the University?
We have AMAZING benefits and offerexceptional amounts of holiday, vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:
  • Medical: Multiple plan options
  • Dental: Multiple plan options
  • Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision
  • Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay
  • Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year
  • Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
  • Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
  • Holiday Days: 10/year
  • Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses
  • ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.
Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications:
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.
This is an open rank position and could be categorized as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor or Professor based on experience and qualifications as indicated below:
Assistant Professor:
Minimum Qualifications:
  • A PhD in a relevant field and/or an MD degree.
  • Have established an independent research program that will be competitive for extramural funding.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Evidence of success with extramural funding.

Associate Professor:
Minimum Qualifications:
  • A PhD in a relevant field and/or an MD degree.
  • Successfully secured extramural funding, such as NIH R or U grants.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • A robust, well developed, and extramurally funded research program.
  • A national reputation for excellent and impactful work in their discipline.

Professor:
Minimum Qualifications:
  • A PhD in a relevant field and/or an MD degree.
  • Repeatedly secured extramural funding, such as NIH R or U grants.
  • A robust, well developed, and extramurally funded research program.
  • A national reputation for excellent and impactful work in their discipline.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Thought leader in their discipline.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • Strong mentoring and/or teaching skills
  • Research skills specific to their discipline.

How to Apply:
For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):
1. A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position
2. Curriculum vitae / Resume
3. A 2-3 page statement of research interests and plan
4. Three to five professional references including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email addre
Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers.
Questions should be directed to: Ashley Woodhouse ashley.woodhouse@cuanschutz.edu
Screening of Applications Begins:
Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by September 30, 2026.
Anticipated Pay Range:
The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as HIRING RANGE:
  • Assistant Professor: $110,000 - $130,000
  • Associate Professor: $135,000 - $155,000
  • Full Professor: $160,000-180,000

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation unless it is non-exempt.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.
Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
The University of Colorado (CU) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
ADA Statement:
The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@ucdenver.edu.
Background Check Statement:
The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.
Vaccination Statement:
CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.

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