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$41.9K

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How much do assistant professor rhetoric composition jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor rhetoric composition in California is $79,008.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $90,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant professor of rhetoric composition?

Assistant Professors of Rhetoric and Composition are entry-level, tenure-track faculty members at colleges or universities who specialize in teaching and researching writing, rhetoric, and composition studies. They often teach undergraduate and graduate courses in academic writing, rhetorical theory, and related subjects, and may also mentor students or oversee writing programs. In addition to teaching, they are expected to conduct scholarly research, publish their findings, and participate in service activities within their department and institution. Their work helps improve students' writing skills and advances scholarship in the field of rhetoric and composition.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant professor of rhetoric composition?

To thrive as an Assistant Professor of Rhetoric and Composition, you typically need a PhD in English, Rhetoric, Composition, or a closely related field, along with a strong record of teaching and research. Familiarity with learning management systems (such as Canvas or Blackboard), digital literacy tools, and experience publishing in scholarly journals are commonly required. Outstanding communication, mentorship, and collaboration skills help foster student engagement and collegiality in academic environments. These skills and qualifications ensure effective teaching, impactful scholarship, and meaningful contributions to departmental and institutional goals.

What are some common challenges assistant professors of rhetoric composition face during their first few years, and how can they address them?

New Assistant Professors in Rhetoric and Composition often encounter challenges such as balancing heavy teaching loads with research expectations and service commitments. Navigating institutional requirements for publication and tenure while developing engaging, student-centered curricula can also be demanding. Building networks with colleagues, seeking mentorship, and setting clear boundaries for their time can help address these challenges. Additionally, being proactive about professional development and regularly reflecting on teaching and research priorities are key strategies for early career success.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Rhetoric Composition jobs in California?

For Assistant Professor Rhetoric Composition jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Assistant Professor Rhetoric Composition jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Professor Rhetoric Composition jobs?

Cities in California with the most Assistant Professor Rhetoric Composition job openings:

Assistant Professor Rhetoric Composition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Rhetoric Composition job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,008 per year, or $38 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Composition

Stanford, CA

Stanford Energy
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Stanford Energyexternal

$115K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Teach courses primarily in composition and analysis at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

  • Supervise individual composition research and mentor students.

  • Engage in creative and innovative composition activities with the potential for professional distinction.

Stanford University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Assistant Professor of Composition

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

The Department of Music at Stanford University invites applications for a tenure-track composer at the rank of Assistant Professor. The envisaged starting date is September 1, 2027.

We are searching for a creative and innovative composer who will show every promise of attaining professional distinction. The successful candidate must have a commitment to high quality undergraduate and graduate instruction, and ability or potential in teaching and mentoring a diverse student body.

Candidates should have an interest and expertise in one or more additional areas of performance and/or research, including, but not limited to, theory within or beyond the traditions of Western art music, music performance, and computer music. The successful applicant will also have demonstrated interests that afford effective interactions with a broad range of colleagues. Teaching responsibilities will involve courses primarily in composition and analysis, at both undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as the supervision of individual composition research. Courses may also be taught in the candidate's additional areas of expertise.

To be considered, applicants must hold a DMA or PhD in Composition or a closely related field, or demonstrate equivalent professional distinction.

Letters of application should be received on or before October 1, 2026, and must include the following:

- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- List of works and performances
- Three to five letters of reference

Additional supporting materials will be requested at a later date. Please do NOT send scores or recordings at this stage of the search.
The expected base pay range for this position is $115,133 - $135,388.

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.

Further information about Stanford's Department of Music may be found at music.stanford.edu. Inquiries may be directed to Bryan Hardester, Director of Finance and Operations, bhardest@stanford.edu.

The application process will close on October 1, 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: 29 Jun 2026 1:00 PM Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: 01 Oct 2026 11:55 PM Pacific Daylight Time

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