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Assistant Professor Poetry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Professor ofEnglish Work Type: Faculty Full time In-Person Start Date: 07/01/2027 The ... Poetry Competition, as well as through thesis advising and mentoring of student literary projects.

Assistant Professor Poetry information

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$42.5K

$80.1K

$135K

How much do assistant professor poetry jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor poetry in the United States is $80,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are typical expectations for research and publication for an Assistant Professor of Poetry?

As an Assistant Professor of Poetry, you are generally expected to maintain an active record of creative publication, such as publishing poetry collections, individual poems in reputable journals, or contributing to literary anthologies. These creative works are often considered equivalent to traditional academic research in literature faculty roles. Additionally, you'll likely be encouraged to participate in readings, workshops, and conferences, which can contribute to your professional profile and the department's reputation. Balancing teaching, creative output, and service commitments is a common challenge, but many institutions provide mentorship and support for early-career faculty to help navigate these expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Professor of Poetry, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Professor of Poetry, you need a terminal degree such as an MFA or PhD in creative writing or literature, along with a strong record of published poetry and teaching experience. Familiarity with digital learning platforms, classroom technology, and literary databases is often necessary. Exceptional communication, mentorship, and workshop facilitation skills help foster student growth and create an inspiring learning environment. These competencies are essential for effectively teaching, engaging students, and contributing to academic and creative communities.

What does an Assistant Professor of Poetry do?

An Assistant Professor of Poetry typically teaches undergraduate and sometimes graduate courses in poetry writing, literature, and related subjects. They mentor students, guide creative projects, and participate in curriculum development within a university's English or Creative Writing department. In addition to teaching, they are usually expected to publish their own poetry, contribute to academic research, and engage in departmental service activities. Assistant Professors are often in the early stages of their academic careers and may be working toward tenure.

What is the difference between Assistant Professor Poetry vs Assistant Professor Creative Writing?

AspectAssistant Professor PoetryAssistant Professor Creative Writing
Required CredentialsMaster's or Ph.D. in Poetry, Literature, or related fieldMaster's or Ph.D. in Creative Writing, Literature, or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, teaching and researchAcademic institutions, teaching, and mentoring students
Employer & IndustryUniversities, colleges, arts institutionsUniversities, colleges, arts institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Assistant Professor Poetry typically focuses on teaching and researching poetry specifically, while Assistant Professor Creative Writing covers a broader range of writing genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. Both roles require advanced degrees and are found in similar academic settings, but their specialization differs.

More about Assistant Professor Poetry jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Professor Poetry jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Professor Poetry job openings:
What states have the most Assistant Professor Poetry jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Professor Poetry jobs include:
Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Poetry job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,057 per year, or $38.5 per hour.
Associate Professor or Full Professor, Poetry

Associate Professor or Full Professor, Poetry

Stanford Energy

Stanford, CA

$128K - $159K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Stanford University rating

7.8

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Job description

Associate Professor or Full Professor, Poetry

Apply now Work type: University Tenure Line
Location: Stanford University
Categories: School of Humanities & Sciences

Department of English/Creative Writing Program, Associate Professor or Full Professor, Poetry 

The Department of English and the Creative Writing Program at Stanford University seek applicants for a senior appointment at the rank of Associate Professor or Professor specializing in Poetry. Candidates are expected to have a record of distinguished publication, including two published books of original poetry. All applicants should hold an MFA or its equivalent.

Candidates should have a strong commitment to teaching and be prepared to take an active part in Stanford's vibrant academic and creative writing communities. This position requires teaching courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels within both the English Department and the Creative Writing Program. A particular emphasis of the position is the mentoring and advising of students at all levels.  The term of appointment is expected to begin September 1, 2027. 


Candidates should submit the following:

  a cover letter.

  a curriculum vitae with a full list of publications including any publications in genres other than poetry.

  a teaching statement. This should include examples of how the candidate has applied their approach in the classroom. 

  contact information for three references. 

Further materials may be requested later.


All application materials must be submitted online.

For full consideration, materials must be received by September 15, 2026 at 11:55pm PST. 

The salary range for this position for the academic year 2026-2027 is: 

Associate Professor: $128,992 - $159,907
Professor: $149,247 - $255,852

Stanford University has provided a pay range representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for the position upon hire. The pay offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors including (but not limited to) the qualifications of the selected candidate, budget availability, and internal equity.

Inquiries may be directed to Christina Ablaza, Administrative Director of Creative Writing, cablaza@stanford.edu. Further information about Stanford's Department of English and Creative Writing Program can be found at https://english.stanford.edu and https://creativewriting.stanford.edu/.

Review of applications will begin on September 16, 2026.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Stanford welcomes applications from all who would bring additional dimensions to the University's research, teaching, and clinical missions. 

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact disability.access@stanford.edu.

Advertised: 15 Jul 2026 3:00 PM Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: 15 Sep 2026 11:55 PM Pacific Daylight Time

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