Contract Poetry Teaching Jobs (NOW HIRING)

How to Apply
In addition to applying via careers.umich.edu, please submit the following to Interfolio by September 14, 2026:
https://apply.interfolio.com/189205
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- A statement of current/ future writing plans
- Statement of Teaching Philosophy and experience, not to exceed 2 pages
- A short writing sample (10-20 pages)
- Names/contact information for three (3) references
In their cover letter or teaching statement, applicants are encouraged to address their ability to work effectively with a student body that is diverse across a variety of measures.
Mission Statement
The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.
Job Summary
The Helen Zell Writers' Program in the Department of English at the University of Michigan invites applications for the Helen Zell Visiting Professor of Creative Writing, a Lecturer III appointment in poetry with a start date of August 25, 2027. This is a non-tenure track position with a university-year appointment (i.e., runs August 25 through May 24 each year). The appointment term is three years, with the potential for renewal for an additional two years.
Responsibilities*
A typical full-time (100% effort) load for a Lecturer III in the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts is three (3) courses per semester, or the equivalent in administrative and/or service duties. Each year, the Helen Zell Visiting Professor will typically be expected to teach one graduate MFA class in poetry, as determined by the MFA Director, and two undergraduate courses, as determined by the Director of Undergraduate Studies. They will also be expected to advise 2-3 MFA theses. In addition to teaching responsibilities, the Helen Zell Visiting Professor will also serve on the MFA applications committee and on occasion invite/host visiting writers for the reading series. Finally, and in accordance with the intent of our donor, the Helen Zell Visiting Professor will be expected to continue working toward completion of a new book during this appointment.
Required Qualifications*
Candidates must hold an MFA or PhD in Creative Writing prior to the start date of the position and have experience in the college-level teaching of poetry. Applicants should be emerging writers (one book of poetry recently published or under contract; candidates may also have a second book under contract) who have achieved distinction in their writing and excellence in their teaching. We are particularly interested in writers with a proven interest in bringing to their teaching, mentoring, and writing critical perspectives reflecting the experiences of groups who have been historically underrepresented or marginalized in higher education.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .
Additional Information
Further information about the Department of English Language and Literature can be found on our website at lsa.umich.edu/English .
Union Affiliation
This position is covered under the collective bargaining agreement between the U-M and the Lecturers Employee Organization, AFL-CIO, which contains and settles all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours and other terms and conditions of employment.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Contact Information
Questions or concerns may be directed to [email protected] .
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
280267
Working Title
LEO Lecturer III - Helen Zell Visiting Professor - Poetry
Job Title
LEO Lecturer III
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
College Of Lsa
Department
LSA English Language & Lit.
Posting Begin/End Date
7/16/2026 - 9/14/2026
Career Interest
LEO - Lecturers