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Department Chair Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marylandconnect

JR101711 Chair of the Department of Educational Professions (Open) Department: College of EBHP, Dean/College of Education, Behavioral and Health Professions | PM Position Type: Regular Open Date: 03 ...

Clemson University

Department Chair - FNPS

Clemson, SC · On-site

Description Department of Food, Nutrition, and Packaging Sciences (FNPS) Department Chair Clemson University invites nominations and applications for the position of Chair of the Department of Food ...

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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 Jul 12, 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.

How hard is being a department chair?

Being a department chair involves significant responsibilities, including managing faculty, overseeing budgets, and setting strategic goals, which can be demanding and require strong leadership and organizational skills. The role often involves long hours, conflict resolution, and balancing administrative duties with academic priorities.

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 jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

For a Department Chair, salaries of $300,000 or more are common in large academic institutions, especially in medical, business, or law schools, where leadership roles often include substantial compensation. Other high-paying roles in the US that can reach or exceed this level include specialized physicians, corporate executives, and certain technology or finance professionals with extensive experience and advanced skills.

What is the job of a department chair?

A department chair is responsible for overseeing academic departments within an educational institution, managing faculty, developing curriculum, and ensuring departmental goals are met. They often handle administrative tasks, budget management, and serve as a liaison between faculty and higher administration.

How to become chair of a department?

To become a department chair, candidates typically need extensive experience in their academic or professional field, strong leadership skills, and a record of service or research. They often advance from faculty positions, demonstrate administrative abilities, and are selected through a formal nomination or application process within their institution.

What are Department Chairs?

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 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.

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

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.
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Department Chair jobs near you
Infographic showing various Department Chair job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. 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.
Department Chair of English

Department Chair of English

Grayslake Community High School District 127

Grayslake, IL • On-site

Contractor

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Building Administration/Department Chair
Date Posted:
6/25/2026
Location:
Grayslake Central High School
Date Available:
07/01/2026
Closing Date:
Until Filled
Grayslake Central High School is seeking a Department Chair for English. The position is effective July 1, 2026 for the 2026-2027 school year.
This is an 11 month position.
Qualifications:
  • Administrative endorsement required
  • Bilingual preferred

Please see the attached job description for additional requirements and details.
Benefit and pay Information found here.
Attachment(s):
  • JD - Department Chair General 3.2024 - Google Docs.pdf

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