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Department Chair

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$300 - $400/hr

CWRU SOM is seeking a visionary, dynamic and creative department chair, with a distinguished record of scientific and educational achievements, who can expand and lead a forward-looking multi ...

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Department Chair information

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$66.5K

$102.7K

$155K

How much do department chair jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for department chair in the United States is $102,706.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $135,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a department chair?

Department Chairs are faculty members who lead and manage academic departments at colleges or universities. They are responsible for overseeing faculty, setting departmental goals, managing budgets, coordinating course offerings, and representing their department within the institution. Department Chairs also serve as a liaison between faculty, administration, and students, ensuring the smooth operation and development of the department. Their role often involves balancing administrative duties with teaching and research responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a department chair?

To thrive as a Department Chair, you typically need advanced academic credentials (often a PhD), leadership experience, and a strong record of teaching and research in your discipline. Familiarity with academic management systems, budgeting tools, and accreditation processes is important, as are any relevant professional certifications. Exceptional communication, conflict resolution, and team-building skills help foster a positive departmental culture and manage faculty and student needs. These skills and qualities are critical for effective departmental leadership, strategic planning, and ensuring academic excellence.

What are some of the primary challenges faced by a department chair in balancing administrative duties with faculty leadership?

As a Department Chair, one common challenge is effectively managing administrative responsibilities—such as budgeting, scheduling, and policy compliance—while also serving as a leader and advocate for faculty and students. Balancing these often competing demands requires strong organizational skills, clear communication, and the ability to delegate tasks appropriately. Department Chairs must also foster a collaborative and inclusive departmental culture, all while advancing academic goals and supporting professional development among faculty. This dual role can be demanding but offers opportunities for meaningful impact within the institution.

What is the difference between Department Chair vs Program Director?

AspectDepartment ChairProgram Director
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees in the field, often with academic credentialsUsually holds relevant degrees and certifications, often with specialized training in program management
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, overseeing faculty and departmental operationsEducational or training programs, managing curriculum and student outcomes
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, academic settingsEducational institutions, nonprofit organizations, training centers
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for leadership roles within academic departmentsCompared for overseeing specific programs or courses within institutions

The main difference is that a Department Chair leads an entire academic department, managing faculty and departmental strategy, while a Program Director focuses on managing specific programs or courses within an institution. Both roles require relevant credentials and involve leadership, but their scope and responsibilities differ.

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What are popular job titles related to Department Chair jobs?

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Department Chair jobs near you
Infographic showing various Department Chair job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,706 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

English Department Chair

West Virginia Department of Education

Fairmont, WV • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
High School Teaching/Mathematics
Date Posted:
8/18/2026
Location:
East Fairmont High
Closing Date:
08/24/2026
County:
Marion County Schools
POSITION: English Department Chair
QUALIFICATIONS: Meets requirements as set by WV Law and WV State Board Policy
REPORTS TO: Principal
JOB
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  1. Implements programs of study
  2. Fosters a classroom climate conducive to learning
  3. Utilizes instructional management systems models that increase student learning
  4. Monitors student progress towards mastery of instructional goals and objectives
  5. Communicates effectively within the educational community, and with parents on a regular basis
  6. Meets professional responsibilities

EVALUATION: Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the County Board of Education's policy on Evaluation of Professional Personnel

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