Assistant Film Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tenure Track Faculty - Film Production Job no: 556422 Work type: Instructional Faculty – Tenured/Tenure-Track Location: Sacramento Categories: Unit 3 - CFA - California Faculty Association, Tenured/Tenure-Track, Full Time, Faculty - Communications/Journalism COLLEGE: Arts and Letters DEPARTMENT SUMMARY: The Film Program at Sacramento State serves a diverse body of students who have varied interests in the contemporary practice of filmmaking.

We are dedicated to addressing cinema both in the tradition of a critical liberal arts education and as a professional pathway. We seek to give students a solid footing in contemporary film techniques, histories, and theories, pushing students to explore the social and cultural implications of cinema language and practice. Sacramento State is one of the 23 California State University campuses. Our program is part of Sacramento State's Communication Studies Department and is housed within the University's College of Arts and Letters.

Our Film Program seeks to prepare our students to have an impact in a creative environment that requires collaboration, adaptation, and leadership. We recognize that the world in which we live, and work is shaped by an ever-increasing array of visual and auditory information. To prepare them for this rapidly changing media landscape, we challenge our students to be critical thinkers and explore their unique voices through creative, cinematic storytelling.

The Film Program at Sacramento State seeks a tenure track Assistant Professor who specializes in contemporary approaches to narrative filmmaking, with an emphasis on short film storytelling. The position would start in the 2026-27 academic year.

JOB DUTIES

Teach upper and lower division film production, screenwriting, and directing courses Develop curriculum for upper and lower division courses centered on short film practices Lead student advising, recruitment, support part-time faculty, curriculum development, and other related activities aimed at fostering growth of the Film Program Pursue excellence in teaching effectiveness as evidenced through student evaluations, peer evaluations, and meeting program learning outcomes Engage in scholarly and creative activities as evidenced through peer-reviewed exhibition/distribution of film work, development of film projects, and scholarly research appropriate to the discipline Engage in active service at the Department, College, and University levels in the form of committee work and peer support Engage actively with the local and regional community through service and scholarship REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Earned MFA or equivalent terminal degree in the arts by August 2025 Evidence of teaching, mentoring, or training experience in academic or professional settings Evidence of creative practice in contemporary narrative, hybrid, or documentary short filmmaking Experience with the narrative filmmaking process Evidence of filmmaking practice, exhibition, and distribution of work Demonstrated commitment to teaching excellence in a diverse and inclusive environment PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Three (3) years teaching or educational experience at the collegiate level or professional setting Experience as a contemporary storyteller using digital cinema technologies and contemporary distribution strategies Three (3) years of experience working with digital filmmaking equipment and software, screenwriting techniques, and directing narrative production Evidence of ability to teach primary film tools, equipment, and processes in a diverse and inclusive environment Demonstrated record of fundraising for film production projects Evidence of having directed and exhibited / distributed one or more narrative (fiction) films APPLICANT INSTRUCTIONS Review of applications will begin on April 13, 2026. Position is open until filled.

Applications for employment require: Letter of Interest: One page statement addressing the position and the institution as it relates to your experience. Diversity Statement and Teaching Philosophy: One page statement describing your pedagogical approach especially as it applies to teaching diverse student populations. Specifically, how you balance the technical, aesthetic, and collaborative aspects of film production. Additionally, describe how you translate your artistic practice into your teaching.

Current Curriculum Vitae: Please also include a link to your website if applicable. Unofficial transcript demonstrating degree required for position.

Portfolio: Upload a document that includes links to ONE (1) 5-minute video sample reel AND ONE (1) complete short film 10-60 minutes long. Include a brief summation of the contents and your role for each project.

Student Work: Links to three student films and a brief description of course objectives and project learning outcomes for each.

Syllabus Sample: Syllabus you have authored for an upper division course. This may be a proposed course or one you have already taught. Film production is preferred.

Supplemental Materials: Applicants are welcome to submit publications or other evidence of their expertise in film production.

References: Three contacts who can speak to your professional qualifications. Include email and telephone information. OTHER SPECIFICS ABOUT THE POSITION The classification annual salary range for this position is $64,860 - $143,928; the anticipated annual starting salary is $74,642. As evidenced by the values embedded in our Hornet Honor Code, Sacramento State is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all faculty, staff, students, and guests are welcome and valued.

Our commitment is more than simply ensuring that our campus is free from bias and discrimination, but is one devoted to celebrating many diverse identities, life experiences, and perspectives that enrich our community, teaching and learning. Equal Employment Opportunity Sacramento State is an Affimative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and has a strong institutional commitment to the principle of diversity in all areas.

We consider qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, genetic information, medical condition, marital status, veteran status, or disability. Sacramento State hires only those individuals who are lawfully authorized to accept employment in the United States.