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Contract Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$31.25 - $36.05/hr

Makes recommendations regarding equipment, software purchases, and equipment maintenance contracts. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Assistant Professor: Surgical Technology * Bachelor's degree in surgical ...

... term contract. Persons with the title of professor-clinical, associate professor-clinical ... assistant professor-clinical and instructor-clinical. Duties and responsibilities are assigned in ...

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Contract Professor information

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$58K

$114.8K

$189K

How much do contract professor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract professor in the United States is $114,792.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $121,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get hired as an adjunct professor?

To become an adjunct professor, candidates typically need a master's degree or higher in the relevant field, along with teaching experience or expertise. Applying through college or university job portals, submitting a tailored resume, and providing evidence of subject matter knowledge are essential steps. Networking within academic circles and demonstrating strong communication skills can also improve hiring prospects.

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

To thrive as a Contract Professor, you generally need an advanced degree in your discipline (often a Ph.D. or at least a master's), substantial subject expertise, and experience in teaching or academic research. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), digital teaching tools, and sometimes certification in pedagogy or online instruction is typically expected. Excellent communication, adaptability, and organizational skills set standout candidates apart, enabling them to connect with diverse learners and manage varied course loads. These skills are crucial for delivering quality education, fostering student engagement, and meeting the demands of multiple courses or institutions under limited-term contracts.

What are some typical challenges faced by contract professors, and how can they be managed effectively?

Contract professors often juggle multiple courses across different departments or institutions, which can lead to time management challenges and limited access to campus resources. Establishing clear communication with department administrators and fellow faculty helps in staying informed about institutional expectations and available support. Proactively scheduling office hours, leveraging digital tools for course management, and building a supportive network among peers can greatly ease workload pressures and foster a sense of community.

What are contract professors?

Contract professors are academic instructors hired by colleges or universities on a contractual basis, typically for a fixed term such as one semester or academic year. Unlike tenured or tenure-track faculty, contract professors usually do not have permanent employment or the same level of job security and benefits. Their primary responsibilities often include teaching courses, advising students, and sometimes conducting research, but their roles and expectations can vary widely between institutions. Contract professors may also be referred to as adjuncts, lecturers, or visiting professors, depending on the institution. This arrangement allows schools to bring in specialized expertise or adjust staffing based on enrollment needs.

What is the difference between Contract Professor vs Adjunct Professor?

AspectContract ProfessorAdjunct Professor
CredentialsTypically requires a terminal degree in the fieldUsually requires at least a master's degree; terminal degree preferred
Work EnvironmentFull or part-time, often with longer-term contractsPart-time, often semester-by-semester basis
Employer & Industry UsageUsed mainly in universities and colleges for specialized coursesCommon in higher education for adjunct teaching roles

Contract Professors and Adjunct Professors both teach in higher education institutions and often hold similar credentials. The main difference lies in contract length and employment stability, with Contract Professors typically having longer-term or renewable contracts, while Adjunct Professors usually work on a semester basis. Both roles are essential for delivering specialized courses in universities and colleges.

What qualifications do you need to be an adjunct professor?

To be an adjunct professor, candidates typically need at least a master's degree in the relevant field, though many institutions prefer a doctoral degree. Relevant teaching experience, subject matter expertise, and strong communication skills are also important, along with familiarity with academic technology and curriculum development.

Is it worth it to be an adjunct professor?

Contract professors, often called adjuncts, typically work part-time with limited benefits and lower pay compared to full-time faculty. While the position offers flexibility and teaching experience, it may lack job security and long-term stability, making it less ideal for those seeking a stable career in academia.

Is there a demand for professors?

The demand for contract professors varies by discipline and institution but generally remains steady due to ongoing needs for higher education instructors. Factors such as specialization, experience, and the ability to teach online or in hybrid formats can influence job opportunities in this field.
More about Contract Professor jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Professor jobs? Cities with the most Contract Professor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Professor jobs? The most popular types of Professor jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Professor jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Professor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Professor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,792 per year, or $55.2 per hour.
Assistant Professor- Critical Care Intensivist

Assistant Professor- Critical Care Intensivist

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 hours ago


University Of South Florida rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

273rd of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine and the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, is seeking a Pulmonary/Critical Care physician for a full-time position at the Assistant, Associate or Full Professor rank. This is a full-time 12-month salaried faculty appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor and carries with it attending staff privileges at Tampa General Hospital (TGH) and affiliated hospitals.
Appointment at the rank of Associate Professor requires a minimum of five years of continuing and productive service as an Assistant Professor, or the equivalent. Appointment at the rank of Full Professor requires a minimum of five years of continuing and productive service as an Associate Professor, or the equivalent. Responsible to a Chair or other appropriate higher-level administrator of a State university. Responsible for teaching, research, service, and related administrative activities. Responsible for academic advising and related activities.  May represent the university, college/school, or department. 

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF's rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida's best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state's 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF 

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF's Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: 

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.  This job description does not constitute an employment contract.  

Minimum:

Medical degree from an accredited institution or the highest degree appropriate in the field of specialization with a demonstrated record of achievement in teaching, academic research, and service. Must meet university criteria for appointment to the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor. For Associate/Full Professor - Normally will have produced creative work, professional writing or research in referred and other professional journals, and be a recognized authority in the field of specialization.

Must hold or be eligible for a full, unrestricted Florida Medical License or foreign equivalent required.  To perform this position, the candidate will need to obtain and maintain a full un-restricted FL Medical License, maintain credentials in the USF Health faculty practice plan, and be a medical staff member in good standing at the hospitals he/she is assigned to perform clinical duties. 

Preferred:

USF is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through their research, teaching, and/or service. 

MUST BE BOARD CERTIFIED/ELIGIBLE IN: Critical Care and Pulmonary Diseases 

  • CLINICAL - Provides Critical Care services at TGH and/ or affiliated hospitals and clinics.
  • TEACHING -Provide instruction and supervision for medical students, residents and fellows at USF and its affiliated institutions in the areas of critical care, clinics, consults and lectures
  • Responsible to a Chair or other appropriate higher-level administrator of a State university. 
  • Responsible for teaching, research, service, and related administrative activities.
  • Responsible for academic advising and related activities. 
  • May represent the university, college/school, or department.

What University Of South Florida employees say

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About University of South Florida

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of South Florida (USF), located in Tampa, FL, US, is a highly respected, long-standing institution specializing in teaching, research, and public service. It operates within the higher education industry and offers over 180 undergraduate, graduate, specialist, and doctoral degree programs, across disciplines ranging from arts and sciences to business, engineering, and healthcare. Founded in the year 1956, USF has relentlessly strived to develop an environment conducive to learning and research, which over the years, has earned it a preeminent status among public universities across the globe. USF's mission is to foster a vibrant, student-centric learning environment that instills an expansive intellectual foundation to drive success. USF is known for its considerable impact on regional and state economies, contributing $5 billion annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tampa, FL, US

Year founded

1956

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