Assistant Professor Jobs in Decatur, MS (NOW HIRING)

Apply now Job no: 510726
Position type: Full-Time 9-Month
Department: 313204 - Meridian Division of Education
Location: Meridian Campus - Meridian, MS; Riley Campus - Meridian, MS; Riley Center - Meridian, MS
Categories: Faculty
Position Open Date: Jun 2 2026

Position Function:

Assistant or Associate Teaching Professor in Educational Leadership at Mississippi State University on the Meridian Campus. The Division of Education invites applicants for a non‑tenure track position, teaching primarily in educational leadership degree programs beginning fall 2026.

The Division of Education has a distinguished record of service to our community, our state, and our nation with faculty who have been recognized nationally and internationally. With undergraduate and graduate degree offerings on campus and synchronous online, we are well equipped to meet a vast array of academic needs for both entry level and seasoned professionals. The Division of Education houses programs in traditional P-12 educational programs, such as elementary and secondary education, school counseling, teacher leadership, school administration, and educational policy and organizational design. Additionally, we offer programs in community college education and clinical mental health counseling to help meet the needs of the community.

Area of Specialization:

Educational Leadership

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Primary responsibilities will include graduate teaching and advisement, service, and outreach. Faculty work closely with area schools, community colleges, and non‑profit agencies.

Minimum Qualifications:

Doctorate in Educational Leadership or an Education‑Related field; demonstration of excellence in teaching (Associate Teaching Professor) or demonstration of potential for excellence (Assistant Teaching Professor). ABDs will be considered. Level of appointment is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

Minimum of 3 years of experience; experience with teaching at the graduate level; experience teaching virtually or online; ability to teach in another discipline in the Division of Education (e.g., Elementary Education, Secondary Education).

• Foundational Knowledge in Educational Leadership: Strong understanding of PK‑12 educational systems, policy implementation, organizational design, and school improvement efforts.
• Relevant Professional Experience: Experience working in educational settings, such as schools or districts, with demonstrated involvement in leadership, reform, or program development.
• Commitment to Teaching and Learning: Enthusiasm for teaching adult learners and a willingness to grow as an educator in a higher education setting. Ability to connect theory to practice in meaningful ways for working professionals.
• Collaborative Disposition: Ability to work effectively with colleagues in a team‑oriented academic environment and engage with a broad student population.
• Interest in Curriculum and Program Development: Willingness to contribute to the development and refinement of graduate‑level coursework that prepares future educational leaders.
• Mentoring Potential: Readiness to advise and support graduate students, particularly those working in professional settings, with a focus on helping them apply research and policy to real‑world challenges.
• Strong Communication Skills: Effective written and verbal communication skills suited to professional and academic contexts.
• Technological Readiness: Basic proficiency with learning management systems (e.g., Canvas), video conference tools (e.g., Webex), and willingness to learn and apply new instructional technologies.

Academic environment: Duties will be carried out primarily in classrooms, offices, and virtual learning environments. The role involves regular interaction with graduate students, colleagues, and community partners.

Physical Requirements: Work requires typical physical effort found in office or classroom settings, including prolonged periods of sitting, use of a computer, and occasional light lifting (e.g., instructional materials or event supplies).

Schedule Flexibility: This position will include evening teaching with occasional weekend teaching, particularly in support of hybrid courses.

On‑Campus Expectations: While some responsibilities may be performed remotely, regular presence on campus is expected to foster student support, collaboration, and service to the institution.

All applicants must apply online at www.explore.msujobs.msstate.edu and attach a cover letter, curriculum vitae, transcripts, teaching evaluations (if applicable), and the complete contact information for at least three references. Inquiries should be directed to the Search Committee Chair, Dr. Kaleb Smith. Any social security numbers included on requested transcripts should be redacted prior to submitting online.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or email at adah@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.

Advertised: Jun 02 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close: