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Dean Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

KIPP

Dean of Teaching

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

The dean of teaching role is an instructional staff and manager position. The dean's job is to support the school leader and/or ASL in driving academic and character outcomes for students as a key ...

KIPP

Dean of Teaching

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

The dean of teaching role is an instructional staff and manager position. The dean's job is to support the school leader and/or ASL in driving academic and character outcomes for students as a key ...

Fresno State

Dean of Graduate Studies

Fresno, CA · On-site

$155K - $175K/yr

Dean of Graduate Studies Apply now Job no: 557327 Work type: Management (MPP) Location: Fresno Categories: MPP, Administrative, At-Will, Full Time Position Description Dean of Graduate Studies ...

Pacific College

Dean of Nursing

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$180 - $250/hr

The Dean of Pacific College is responsible for the strategic leadership of the academic and clinical components of the college. The Dean also collaborates with key leaders in other divisions of the ...

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All JobsDean JobsDean Jobs in California

Dean information

See California salary details

$42.4K

$104.4K

$178.6K

How much do dean jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for dean in California is $104,364.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,000.00 and $129,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of a dean?

The dean of a higher education facility is a member of the administration and helps to make decisions that affect the university or college within their specific department or area of influence. As a dean, sometimes called the provost in some schools, your responsibilities include helping to set a study curriculum, planning a budget, determining admission guidelines, advocating for student needs, and performing other duties as determined by the size of the institution. You also answer to the vice president and the president of the university.

What are some typical challenges deans face when balancing administrative duties with academic leadership?

Deans often encounter the challenge of managing administrative responsibilities—such as budgeting, policy implementation, and resource allocation—while also providing academic leadership and support to faculty and students. Juggling these demands requires strong time management and communication skills. Additionally, Deans must navigate competing priorities and foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders, ensuring that both the academic mission and operational needs of the college or school are met. Building relationships and maintaining transparency are key strategies to successfully balance these roles.

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

To thrive as a Dean, you need extensive experience in academic administration, advanced degrees (usually a doctorate), and a strong track record in leadership and education management. Familiarity with institutional accreditation processes, budgeting software, and learning management systems is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, strategic vision, and the ability to foster collaboration set outstanding Deans apart. These competencies are crucial for effectively guiding academic programs, supporting faculty and students, and advancing the institution's mission.

What does a dean do at a college or university?

A Dean is a senior academic administrator responsible for overseeing a specific division, college, or faculty within a university or college. Their duties typically include managing academic programs, supporting faculty and student needs, developing policies, and handling budgets. Deans also represent their division to the broader institution and may be involved in strategic planning, fundraising, and accreditation processes. They play a key role in setting academic standards and fostering an environment that supports both teaching and research.

What is the difference between Dean vs Principal?

AspectDeanPrincipal
Primary RoleAcademic leadership within a college or university, overseeing academic programs and facultySchool leadership responsible for overall management, operations, and student discipline in a K-12 school
Required CredentialsTypically advanced degrees (Master's or Doctorate), academic experience, leadership skillsUsually teaching certification, administrative credentials, leadership experience
Work EnvironmentHigher education institutions, universities, collegesPrimary and secondary schools, K-12 education settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, higher education sectorPublic and private K-12 schools, school districts

The main difference between a Dean and a Principal lies in their scope and setting. A Dean typically works within higher education institutions, focusing on academic programs and faculty management. In contrast, a Principal manages K-12 schools, overseeing daily operations and student discipline. Both roles require leadership skills, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

More about Dean jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Dean jobs in California?

The most popular types of Dean jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Dean jobs?

Cities in California with the most Dean job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Dean jobs in CA?

For Dean jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Dean jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dean job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $104,364 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

Dean, Public Safety, Health & Wellness

West Valley-Mission CCD

Saratoga, CA • On-site

$259K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Title Dean, Public Safety, Health & Wellness How many positions are you recruiting for? 1 Campus Mission College
Position Summary Information
Definition
The School of Public Safety, Health, and Wellness at Mission College seeks a highly competent, equity-engaged individual to serve in the capacity of Dean.
Mission College, located in Santa Clara, the heart of the Silicon Valley, is a proud Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) and Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPISI}. As a designated Caring Campus, we prioritize connection, compassion, and belonging in all that we do.
We are deeply committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism, not just as values, but as everyday practices. Our greatest strength is our people. At Mission, employees are encouraged to bring their full, authentic selves to work. We lead with heart, honor lived experience, and center students in every decision.
With innovative programs, a student-focused culture, and award-winning faculty and staff, Mission College has earned recognition for advancing equitable student outcomes, supporting basic needs, and driving workforce development. This is more than a place to work - it's a place to belong, grow, and make a real impact.
Under the general supervision of the Vice President of Instruction, or designee, the Dean of Public Safety, Health and Wellness works with the following departments and programs:
Fire Protection Technology
Nursing and Allied Health
Pharmacy Technology
Kinesiology
The Dean is an academic management position that has primary responsibility to build, maintain, and expand the exemplary programs and partnerships needed to train and prepare students for careers in the above areas. The position is directly responsible for providing the leadership, direction, and oversight of identified programs, faculty, staff, facilities, budget, policies, and procedures.
The Dean works closely with faculty, staff and other administrators as well as healthcare providers, regulatory agencies, accrediting bodies, professional groups, local and regional organizations, and area colleges and universities to keep instruction, technology, and standards of practice up to date and to build new programs as appropriate. The incumbent must work closely with other college and district administrators in an environment of participatory governance to provide optimum quality services to students, faculty and staff at a community college.
Applicants who possess the knowledge, skills, and life experiences to address the cultural and educational needs of a culturally diverse student population are encouraged to apply.
Assignment
This is an academic administrator position with an anticipated start date of January 2026. This is an exempt, management position and is not subject to overtime.
Work Location: Mission College, Santa Clara, CA
Salary and Benefits
Salary:
  • Anticipated Hiring Range: $208,083-$221,612 annually (Administrative Salary Schedule, Range 25, Steps A-C).
  • Annual salary step increases to maximum of salary range, $259,413 annually (Administrative Salary Schedule, Range 25, Step H)
Benefits include:
  • Additional compensation: $2,000 for doctorate added to base salary annually, to be prorated on a monthly basis.
  • Employer-contributed medical, dental and vision for employee, spouse and/or dependents.
  • Employer-paid long term disability for employee.
  • Employer-provided life insurance.
  • 14 paid holidays, plus 1 floating holiday annually; paid non-workdays between Christmas and New Year.
  • 22 days vacation leave accrued annually (25 days after 5 years).
  • 12 days sick leave accrued annually.
  • Personal necessity leave and personal business leave.
  • Professional development and renewal leave.
  • $1000 longevity award annually after 10 years of service and $1,500 longevity award annually after 15 years of service.
  • CalSTRS retirement.

Minimum Qualifications
Any combination of experience and education that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
  • Experience: Five years of increasingly responsible experience in instruction at a college level; including two years of administrative and management responsibility.
  • Education: Equivalent to a Master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in education or a field related to specific area of assignment.

Desired Qualifications Knowledge and Abilities
Knowledge of:
  • Principles and practices of curriculum development and approval, and enrollment management in institutions of higher education.
  • Principles and practices of leadership, motivation, team building, and conflict resolution.
  • Academic, career/transfer education, transfer, and developmental education including non-traditional methods of instruction.
  • Process and standards of accreditation, and requirements and techniques of outcomes assessment.
  • Principles and practices of collective bargaining, contract negotiation and administration.
  • Modern pedagogical and instructional design for various instructional methods including online, supplemental, and non-credit.
  • Principles and practices of participatory governance and effective practices of adult teaching and learning.
  • Pertinent local, state and federal rules, regulations, and laws.
  • Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment.
  • Principles and practices of organizational analysis and management.
  • Budgeting procedures and techniques.
  • Principles and practices of supervision, training and personnel management.

Ability to:
  • Organize and direct the operations and activities of the college's instructional programs and/or student support services.
  • On a continuous basis, analyze budget and technical reports; interpret and evaluate staff reports; know laws, regulations and codes; observe performance and evaluate staff; problem solve department related issues; remember various rules and procedures; and explain and interpret policy.
  • On a continuous basis, sit at desk and in meetings for long periods of time; intermittently twist to reach equipment surrounding desk; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation; use telephone; write or use a keyboard to communicate through written means; and lift or carry weight of 10 pounds or less.
  • Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals.
  • Gain cooperation through discussion and persuasion.
  • Interpret and apply district, division and department policies, procedures, rules and regulations.
  • Supervise, train and evaluate staff.
  • Use sound judgment in recognizing scope of authority.
  • Operate and use modern office equipment including computers and applicable software.
  • Maintain regular attendance and adhere to prescribed work schedule to conduct job responsibilities.
  • Utilize appropriate safety procedures and practices for assigned duties.
  • Communicate effectively orally and in writing.
  • Relate effectively with people of varied academic, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy.
  • Establish and maintain effective, cooperative and collaborative working relationships with others.
  • Work beyond normal business hours, attend evening meetings and/or perform weekend work, and travel.


Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Develop and implement department goals, objectives, policies, and procedures.
  • Plan, organize and direct instructional and student support programs, services, and initiatives relative to area of assignment.
  • Direct, oversee, and participate in the development of the department work plan; assign work activities, projects and programs; monitor workflow; review and evaluate work products, methods, and procedures.
  • Prepare the department budget; assist in budget implementation; participate in the forecast of additional funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies; administer the approved budget.
  • Recommend the appointment of faculty and staff; provide or coordinate staff training; conduct performance evaluations; implement discipline procedures as required; monitor faculty contracts to assure accordance with association contract and district policies; maintain discipline and high standards necessary for the efficient and professional operation of the department.
  • Oversee the accurate development, approval and implementation of college curriculum; participate in the coordination, preparation, publication, and distribution of the college catalog and schedule of classes.
  • Ensure instructional programs and support services are regularly assessed for evidence of student learning and achievement, particularly in terms of student outcomes and adherence to standards of accreditation; participate in developing and implementing enrollment performance goals.
  • Manage and oversee functions associated with area of assignment, which may include library, tutorial center, and instructional support labs.
  • Initiate, support and participate in efforts to secure local, state or federal grant funding for college programs and services; ensure that grants are implemented according to approved plans and that reporting requirements are met in a timely manner.
  • Represent the department and division to outside agencies and organizations; participate in outside community and professional groups and committees; provide technical assistance as necessary.
  • Research and prepare technical and administrative reports; prepare written correspondence.
  • Coordinate the selection, use, and maintenance of equipment and facilities assigned to the division.
  • Plan and coordinate course schedules in response to the needs of students and within the district's enrollment targets; manage enrollment to maximize use of faculty loads, operating budgets, and space resources.
  • May oversee revenue-generating classes, programs, and activities.
  • Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other district employees and the public using principles of good customer service.
  • Foster an environment that embraces diversity, integrity, trust, and respect.
  • Be an integral team player, which involves flexibility, cooperation, and communication.
  • Perform related duties as assigned.

Working Conditions Other Duties Physical Demands Applicant Information
APPLICATION INFORMATION:
  • Interested applicants must submit online all materials requested, including: (1) A completed online West Valley-Mission Community College District application; (2) Supplemental application questions; (3) Resume; (4) Unofficial copies of transcripts, if requested; (5) Cover letter and/or reference list, if requested; and (6) Any requested licenses or certificates, if applicable.
  • All sections of the online application, including Education and Educational Work History, must be completed thoroughly.
  • Supervisor(s) name(s) and telephone numbers must be included in the application.
  • Incomplete applications will not be considered.
  • Do NOT send unrequested materials. Unrequested materials will be removed from your application and will not be used for consideration of employment.
  • The employment application and supporting documents represent you; it is to your advantage to fill out the application form carefully and completely.
  • If you have a question that isn't covered in our FAQs, please contact us at careers@wvm.edu.
ABOUT TRANSCRIPTS:
  • If a minimum requirement is possession of a degree, then a copy of transcripts is required to be included with your application to verify the degree being awarded. If no transcripts are included or the transcript does not show a degree conferred AND degree conferred date, the application may be screened as not meeting minimum requirements, the application may be screened as not meeting minimum requirements.
  • Should the minimum qualifications state "any combination equivalent to," then additional relevant work experience may substitute for education. In this case, please upload a document stating such in the Required Transcripts document field.
  • Degrees must have been awarded by a college or university accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Council on Post-Secondary Accreditation and/or the U.S. Department of Education.
  • Candidates with degrees earned outside of the United States must provide official certification of equivalency to U. S. degrees by a certified U. S. credential review service, must have a U.S. evaluation (course by course of the transcripts) and must be submitted with this online application.
  • If you do not have an electronic version of the transcript, you can get...

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