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Entry Level Professor Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Professor information

See Washington salary details

$48.1K

$90.7K

$152.9K

How much do entry level professor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level professor in Washington is $90,672.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $103,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can a 30 year old be a college professor?

Yes, a 30-year-old can be a college professor if they have the necessary qualifications, such as a master's or doctoral degree in their field, along with relevant teaching or research experience. Age is not a limiting factor; academic institutions typically focus on credentials and expertise when hiring faculty members.

How to get your first professor job?

To secure an entry-level professor position, candidates typically need a relevant advanced degree such as a master's or doctorate, along with teaching experience or research credentials. Building a strong academic record, publishing research, and gaining teaching experience through assistantships or adjunct roles can improve prospects; applying through university job boards and networking within academic circles are also important steps.

What is an entry level professor called?

An entry-level professor is typically referred to as an assistant professor. This is the initial rank for faculty members who have completed their doctoral degree and are beginning their academic careers, often involving teaching, research, and service responsibilities.

What is the difference between Entry Level Professor vs Adjunct Professor?

AspectEntry Level ProfessorAdjunct Professor
Required CredentialsMaster's or Doctorate in relevant fieldMaster's or Doctorate, often part-time
Work EnvironmentFull-time, academic institutionPart-time, often contract-based
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, collegesUniversities, colleges, online platforms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Professors typically hold full-time positions with a focus on teaching and research, requiring a higher level of commitment. Adjunct Professors usually work part-time, often on a contractual basis, primarily focusing on teaching without research obligations. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in employment status and workload.

How do you become a professor with no experience?

To become an entry-level professor with no experience, candidates typically need at least a master's degree or a doctoral degree in the relevant field. Gaining teaching experience through assistantships, internships, or adjunct roles, along with developing research skills and publishing work, can improve prospects for securing a faculty position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Professor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Professor, you need a solid academic background in your subject area, often a Ph.D. or terminal degree, along with experience in teaching or research. Familiarity with learning management systems (such as Canvas or Blackboard), online collaboration tools, and academic publishing platforms is typically required. Strong communication, organization, and mentorship skills help foster student engagement and collaboration with colleagues. These skills and qualifications are vital to effectively deliver curriculum, support student success, and contribute to academic scholarship.

What is an entry level professor?

An entry level professor is typically a faculty member at a college or university who is just beginning their academic teaching career. This position is often referred to as an Assistant Professor and usually requires a doctoral degree in the relevant field. Entry level professors are responsible for teaching undergraduate or graduate courses, conducting research, publishing scholarly work, and participating in departmental service. They may also mentor students and help develop academic programs. This role is usually the first step in the tenure-track pathway in academia.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level professors when transitioning from graduate studies to a faculty role?

Entry level professors often find the transition from graduate studies to a faculty position challenging due to balancing teaching, research, and service responsibilities. They may need to quickly develop effective course materials, manage larger classes, and adapt to diverse student needs. Additionally, establishing a research agenda while meeting publication and grant expectations can be demanding. Building relationships with colleagues and seeking mentorship within the department can help ease the transition and foster professional growth.
What are the most commonly searched types of Professor jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Professor jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Professor jobs in Washington? For Entry Level Professor jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Professor job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,672 per year, or $43.6 per hour.
Assistant or Associate Professor of Physical Therapy

Assistant or Associate Professor of Physical Therapy

Shenandoah University

Leesburg, VA • On-site

$93K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Shenandoah University rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 611 rated colleges and universities


Job description


The Division of Physical Therapy at Shenandoah University invites applications for a full-time benefited, core-faculty position at the assistant or associate professor rank. This is an onsite, 12-month appointment at the Scholar Plaza, Loudoun site.
Responsibilities include teaching in the entry-level DPT program, student mentoring, and participating in service activities at the Division levels. Teaching responsibilities may include didactic (lecture and/or lab) in the area of expertise.
Candidates should display teaching experience, preparing them to support the Division of Physical Therapy's commitment to fostering a diverse community supported by an equitable, inclusive campus climate that engages diverse audiences in physical therapy education.
We are seeking a candidate who can demonstrate collaboration with faculty, students, staff, and across the University along with a desire to serve our profession and the global community. The applicant must value diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare practice. A commitment to innovation, service, and professional advancement is essential. Evidence of student-centered education, and innovative educational models, including interprofessional education and hybrid learning technology, is desired.
The Division of Physical Therapy offers both entry-level and post-professional programs. The entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education until 2028. The program is respected for the integration of current technologies throughout its patient-centered curriculum. A dual degree, including a DPT and Masters in Athletic Training (MSAT), is offered in collaboration with the Division of Athletic Training. The DPT and DPT/MSAT programs are co-located at the Winchester, VA, and Scholar Plaza, Loudoun sites.
Shenandoah University is a vibrant University enrolling more than 4,000 students at its main and satellite sites. The Division of Physical Therapy is located within the School of Health Professions along with divisions in Athletic Training, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Occupational Therapy, Public Health, Nutrition, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, and Physician Assistant Studies. Shenandoah University also has various health professions programs in the Bernard J. Dunn School of Pharmacy and the Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing. The University and School are committed to interprofessional education and research.
Shenandoah University has collaborative partnerships with Valley Health Systems and Inova Health Systems.
Required Skills
Required:
  • Eligible for physical therapist licensure in Virginia
  • Evidence of fostering an inclusive, equitable learning environment
  • Demonstrates professional interpersonal and communication skills
  • Membership in the American Physical Therapy Association

Preferred:
  • Doctor of Physical Therapy degree
  • Advanced clinical certification or ABPTS specialty certification
  • Terminal academic doctoral degree (PhD, EdD, DSc, DHSc, or equivalent academic doctoral degree)
  • Prior didactic teaching experience
  • Evidence of a scholarly agenda and/or publication
  • Content knowledge in at least one of the following areas: orthopaedics, pediatrics, foundational sciences, foundational clinical skills

How to Apply:
The Complete application submissions will include a letter of intent, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references. The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a qualified candidate is selected.
**Note: A pre-employment background check will be required, and a satisfactory driving record may be required as a condition of hire.
**Authorized to work in the United States is a pre-condition of employment. At this time, Shenandoah University is not in a position to sponsor international visas.
Shenandoah University values individuals and communities' unique and diverse perspectives locally and globally. It seeks to foster mutual understanding in an inviting community where individuals are welcome and respected. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic or national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran's status, or on any other basis protected under applicable law.

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