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Assistant Professor Rhetoric Composition Jobs in Tennessee

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Assistant Professor Rhetoric Composition information

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$38.6K

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor rhetoric composition in Tennessee is $72,661.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $83,000.00 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.

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Assistant Professor Rhetoric Composition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Rhetoric Composition job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,661 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Professor, Writing, Rhetoric, and Technical Communication

University of Memphis

Memphis, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

University Of Memphis rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis through May 2027. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.

The Department of English at the University of Memphis invites applications for a Visiting Assistant Professor in Writing, Rhetoric, and Technical Communication. We seek an applicant with research interests and teaching experience in one or more of the following: digital rhetoric, collaborative writing, rhetorical theory, and/or technical communication to join our undergraduate (BA) and graduate (MA, PhD) degree programs in Writing, Rhetoric, and Technical Communication (WRTC). Experience teaching online courses is preferred. 

The position is non-renewable and contingent upon funding. It begins Fall 2026 and ends with the conclusion of the Spring 2027 semester. 

The teaching load for this full-time position is 3/3. Salary is competitive and based on experience.

All applications will be managed through the University's online application system, WorkForUM, available here. We urge all qualified applicants to apply for this position. Appointment will be based on qualifications as they relate to position. 

Located in the heart of Memphis, home of the blues, the UofM provides an approach to the humanities rarely available elsewhere. In addition to its affordability, it has a large medical hub, including St. Jude's Hospital, Le Bonheur Hospital, University of Tennessee's medical programs, etc., providing ample opportunity for community and public-private partnerships.

Requirements include a PhD in English, Communication, Rhetoric, Writing Studies, or related field. A PhD in hand is preferred, but advanced ABD candidates will be considered with proof of significant progress towards completion of the PhD. Additional qualifications include: 

  • Evidence of excellent teaching in rhetoric, writing, and/or technical communication
  • A focused research agenda that includes publications or potential for publication in the field(s) of rhetoric, writing, and/or technical communication
  • A commitment to serving the needs of a diverse student population
  • A collegial attitude for department and university service

New faculty will be expected to maintain a productive research agenda and teach undergraduate and graduate courses.

To Apply, candidates should submit the following, initial materials: 

  • Cover Letter
  • Current CV
  • Reference List

Candidates will be asked for the following materials at a later round: 

  • Teaching Philosophy and Sample Teaching Materials
  • Writing Sample (15-20 pages, dissertation chapters for ABD applicants)
  • Transcripts
  • Reference Letters

Deadline: Review of applications will begin on July 10, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis through May 2027. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.

The teaching load for this full-time position is 3/3.  New faculty will be expected to maintain a productive research agenda and teach undergraduate and graduate courses.

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