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How much do college instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for college instructor in the United States is $20.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by College Instructors when managing diverse classrooms?

College Instructors often encounter challenges in addressing the varying learning styles, backgrounds, and academic preparedness of their students. Effectively engaging all students while ensuring course objectives are met can require creative teaching approaches and ongoing adaptation. Instructors may also need to balance classroom management with administrative responsibilities and provide additional support to students who may be struggling. Building an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued is key to overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a College Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a College Instructor, you need subject matter expertise, a relevant advanced degree (typically a master's or doctorate), and experience in teaching or curriculum development. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS) like Canvas or Blackboard, as well as digital presentation tools, is often required. Exceptional communication, adaptability, and the ability to engage and motivate diverse learners are important soft skills. These competencies ensure effective instruction, foster student success, and support a positive learning environment.

What are college instructors?

College instructors are educators who teach courses at colleges or universities. They develop lesson plans, deliver lectures, guide classroom discussions, and assess student performance. Instructors may specialize in a particular field or subject and often engage in academic advising and curriculum development. In addition to teaching, some may participate in research or contribute to their academic departments through service and committee work.

What Is a College Instructor?

College instructors teach classes at community colleges, technical colleges, and four-year universities. They teach a wide variety of different subjects, depending on their specific field of expertise. Your main duties include creating lesson plans, giving lectures, grading assignments, and administering tests. You work directly with students, and collaborate with other teachers and school administrative staff to determine curriculum, changes to the department, and other ways to support students. Most college instructors also have "office hours" to provide help to students who need assistance with their assignments. College instructors who have doctoral degrees and several years of teaching experience may seek tenure-track positions that provide job security.

What is the difference between College Instructor vs University Lecturer?

AspectCollege InstructorUniversity Lecturer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often required; master's preferredMaster's degree typically required; PhD preferred
Work EnvironmentCommunity colleges, technical colleges, or vocational schoolsUniversities and higher education institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in colleges and technical schools for teaching coursesCommonly used in universities for teaching undergraduate and sometimes graduate courses

Both roles involve teaching at the post-secondary level, but College Instructors often have a bachelor's degree and teach at community or technical colleges, while University Lecturers usually hold a master's or PhD and teach at universities. The main differences lie in the educational requirements, work environment, and the institutions where they are employed.

What cities are hiring for College Instructor jobs? Cities with the most College Instructor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of College Instructor jobs? The most popular types of College Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most College Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for College Instructor jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to College Instructor jobs? For College Instructor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
PHYSICS/ASTRONOMY: Adjunct / Substitute Instructor POOL (college credit)

PHYSICS/ASTRONOMY: Adjunct / Substitute Instructor POOL (college credit)

San Diego Community College District

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

|
Posting Details
Posting Details (Default Section)
Closing Date:
Open Until Filled
No
Classification Title
PHYSICS/ASTRONOMY: Adjunct / Substitute Instructor POOL (college credit)
Working Title
Adjunct Faculty
Recruitment Limits
Location
District Wide
Pay Information
At the time that an offer of assignment is made, proper salary placement is contingent upon receipt of OFFICIAL (sealed) transcripts and Verifications of Previous Work Experience (if applicable). Instructors with advanced coursework and/ or experience shall be placed on the appropriate class and step on the Adjunct College Salary Schedules, effective the first month following receipt (in Human Resources) of the official transcripts and Verifications of Previous Work Experience (if applicable). Initial salary placement will be at the first class/step until all required documentation has been submitted.
Click for the current salary schedule or you may view the current salary schedule by using the "Salary Schedules" link to the left.
If you would like to open the link in a different tab or window, right click and select the option.
FLSA Status
Exempt (does not accrue overtime)
Position Type
Adjunct
Bargaining Unit:
AFT/College Faculty
Range
(na)
Department
District Wide
The Position
NOTE: The San Diego Community College District accepts applications for adjunct (part-time/substitute) positions for our three college campuses (City, Mesa, Miramar) and various continuing education centers on a continuous basis. However, it does not necessarily imply there are immediate openings. If you meet the required minimum qualifications, your application will be included in the adjunct pool for possible assignments in the fall, spring, and/or summer semesters of the academic year. Hiring departments utilize the adjunct pool when there is a need and will contact you directly should you possess the qualifications they are seeking. Applications are purged approximately one year from submittal, at which time you will receive an automated e-mail notice to re-apply if you wish to remain in the pool.
Part-time/temporary faculty positions offer flexible hours and the opportunity to assist a diverse group of adult students in achieving their educational goals. As one of the largest community college districts in southern California, we offer a wide range of opportunities in transfer, general education, vocational and occupational programs. These part-time positions are as-needed and applicants should live within commuting distance to San Diego.
Assignments may include a combination of day, evening, weekend, and/or off-campus classes.
Major Responsibilities
  • Primary duties of adjunct faculty members are related to curriculum and teaching; the assignment is divided between lecture and lab classes as determined by the department. Adjunct instructional faculty are required to be available to students outside of class.
  • Provide instruction in accordance with established curriculum and course outlines.
  • Maintain appropriate standards of professional conduct and ethics.
  • Maintain current knowledge in the subject matter areas.
  • Fulfill professional responsibilities of a part-time/temporary faculty member.
  • Teach all scheduled classes.
  • Maintain accurate records.
  • Provide quality instruction, create and maintain an environment which emphasizes teaching and learning and encourages free discussion of ideas, interests and issues.

Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Degrees must be from regionally accredited institutions.
1. Master's degree in Physics, Astronomy, or Astrophysics; OR,
2. Bachelor's degree in Physics or Astronomy AND Master's degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Meteorology, or Geophysics; OR,
3. Possession of a California Community College Instructor Credential (valid for life) in Astronomy and Astral Physics and/or Physics; OR,
4. The equivalent.
Desired Qualifications
Equivalency
If you do not possess the exact degrees listed above or if you anticipate receiving the required degree prior to the start of teaching classes, please complete a "Request for Equivalency Form" (link to the left) and attach it during the application process.
Foreign Degree:
Applicants with foreign degrees from colleges or universities outside of the United States must have their coursework evaluated by a professional association that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services or Academic Credentials Evaluation Institute, INC. . A copy of the evaluation must be submitted with your on-line application.
Licenses/Certificates/Credentials:
[If possess] California Community College Instructor Credential in Astronomy and Astral Physics and/or Physics(valid for life)
Commitment to Diversity:
All applicants must have demonstrated cultural competency and sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, faculty and classified professionals.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Working Conditions
Variable, depending on assignment.
Conditions of Employment:
SELECTED CANDIDATE IS REQUIRED TO COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING PRIOR TO EMPLOYMENT:
Submit "official" college transcripts as stated on application (even if a degree is not a requirement for this position);
Provide a Certificate of Tuberculosis Exam for initial appointment (Note: The certificate must be renewed every 4 years as a condition of continuing employment);
Have fingerprints taken by a Live Scan computer at the district's expense (Clearance must be received prior to first day of employment); AND
Present original documents for proof of eligibility to work in the United States.
Additional Information:
  • Newly hired faculty members are required to submit official transcripts.
  • All new SDCCD employees must provide a Certificate of Tuberculosis Exam for initial appointment, and must renew the certificate every 4 years as a condition of continuing employment.
  • Please note that an employee may be transferred to any site at the option of the Chancellor.

Posting Number
00210