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First Year Composition Instructor Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

HVAC Instructor

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Low-Cost Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance * 19 days of Paid Time Off the first year * 11 paid ... The HVAC Instructor performs as an instructor in a regular classroom setting, presenting ...

Academic Instructor

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$45K - $47K/yr

Low-Cost Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance * 19 Paid Time Off the first year * Paid holidays ... The Academic Teacher performs as an instructor in a regular classroom setting, presenting ...

Fitness Instructor - Lifeguard

Sewickley, PA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Fitness Instructor - Lifeguard Part Time | Days | 1 - 2 Saturdays per month Masonic Villages of ... One-year experience with seniors is desirable. * Maintains certifications in CPR and First Aid.

... each year. Click here to watch a video about Merakey. Merakey strictly follows a zero-tolerance ... First Aid and CPR certification is required.

Familiar with college composition curricula including first-year writing and literature courses, and common challenges such as transitioning from high school to college-level analysis, integrating ...

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First Year Composition Instructor information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$10.7K

$49.7K

$167.5K

How much do first year composition instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year composition instructor in Pittsburgh, PA is $49,727.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,200.00 and $58,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a first year composition instructor do?

A First Year Composition Instructor teaches introductory college writing courses, typically to freshmen or first-year students. Their primary responsibility is to help students develop foundational writing, critical thinking, and research skills needed for academic success. They design curriculum, provide feedback on essays and assignments, and guide students through various writing processes and genres. Instructors also often support students in understanding academic integrity and citation practices.

What are some common challenges first year composition instructors face when teaching diverse student populations?

First Year Composition Instructors often work with students from a wide range of backgrounds, academic preparedness levels, and language proficiencies. A common challenge is designing assignments and classroom activities that engage all students while addressing varying skill sets. Instructors must also balance providing individualized feedback with managing large class sizes and maintaining consistency in grading. Collaboration with colleagues and utilizing campus writing resources can help instructors support students effectively and foster an inclusive learning environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first year composition instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Year Composition Instructor, you need expertise in writing pedagogy, English composition, and assessment, usually supported by at least a master’s degree in English or a related field. Familiarity with learning management systems (e.g., Canvas, Blackboard) and digital writing tools is typically expected. Strong interpersonal communication, adaptability, and the ability to foster student engagement are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure effective instruction, student development, and a supportive classroom environment that builds foundational writing skills.

What is the difference between First Year Composition Instructor vs Writing Center Tutor?

AspectFirst Year Composition InstructorWriting Center Tutor
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; often a master's in English or EducationUndergraduate or graduate student; writing skills focus
Work EnvironmentCollege classrooms, lecture halls, online teachingWriting centers, campus labs, one-on-one tutoring sessions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, academic institutionsCampus writing centers, tutoring programs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

First Year Composition Instructors typically teach college-level writing courses, requiring formal credentials and working in classrooms. Writing Center Tutors focus on providing individual writing assistance, often as part of campus tutoring programs. Both roles involve supporting student writing but differ in scope, environment, and credentials.

First Year Writing Adjunct

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Chatham University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Chatham University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Chatham University welcomes your interest in employment opportunities and encourages you toreview open positions. Please note that Chatham does not accept unsolicited applications.

Chatham University seeks to fill Adjunct Instructor opportunities in their First Year Writing program. Individuals with professional experience and training in the areas of rhetoric and composition, literary studies, and/or academic research and writing are encouraged to apply.

The First Year Writing curriculum aligns with the University's core values of sustainability, community engagement, and inclusion. All First Year Writing sections share a common syllabus and schedule of assignments. However, instructors may customize the readings, discussions, and assignment prompts of this course around the topic of their choice and utilize a variety of teaching methods to promote student engagement such as experiential learning, group discussion, project work, multimedia, or other techniques.

Chatham University strives to promote a campus environment that understands and embraces multiculturalism while increasing individuals' intercultural competence. We actively work to build and sustain a diverse and culturally vibrant campus, which promotes employee and student success and retention.

Review of applications is ongoing.

Position Summary:Adjunct positions will be filled as needed in First Year Writing.

We welcome adjunct faculty who bring creativity, enthusiasm and a collaborative approach to their teaching and course development.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Teaching sections of First Year Writing using a predesigned syllabus template.

  • Consulting and collaborating with other faculty to align course content with departmental teaching goals and objectives.

  • Holding office hours and being available to first-year students for additional support and mentorship.

  • Participating in adjunct instructor training sessions.

Required Qualifications:

  • Completion of a master's degree in English/Literature, Creative/Professional Writing, Rhetoric and Composition or relevant field.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Completion of a doctoral degree in English/Literature, Rhetoric and Composition, or relevant field.

  • Candidates with college teaching and mentoring experience.

  • Candidates with professional and/or lived experiences that advance the university's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should visitwww.chatham.edu/careersand follow the instructions to complete the application process.

  • Cover letter addressing how your experience and training aligns with the qualifications of the position. Please indicate in your cover letter if you are available for in-person or online teaching or both.

  • Curriculum vitae or resume

  • Contact information for three professional references

Chatham University strives to promote a campus environment that understands and embraces multiculturalism while increasing individuals' intercultural competence. We actively work to build and sustain a diverse and culturally vibrant campus, which promotes employee and student success and retention.

Chatham University is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity. Chatham University does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, age, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital or family status, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.


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