Freelance Programmer Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

In addition to its regular, full-time faculty, Columbia College Chicago hires scholars, creative professionals, and other industry-experienced Adjunct Faculty to teach courses on a part-time basis. These positions are not available every semester and are contingent upon student enrollment and the availability of funding.

To be qualified to teach at the college, candidates must possess a degree at least one level above the level at which they teach, with a terminal degree in the relevant discipline as the preferred credential. In terminal degree programs, faculty members will possess the same level of degree. In occasional cases, demonstrated currency in a specialized discipline and a sustained history of distinguished professional work, compelling creative achievements, or other significant experience in the relevant field may be considered as an alternative to the required degree. 

REQUIRED: 

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, or related discipline
• Professional experience and expertise in graphic design, in areas like typography, layout, branding, and digital design, typically 5 years.
• Robust portfolio showcasing a range of design skills and projects, as well as possibly client testimonials or awards. This could include work in design firms, freelance projects, or significant involvement in the industry.
• Knowledge of current design software, technologies, standards, industry best practices, and sustainable practices. Proficiency in design software relevant to the field, such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), and familiarity with other tools pertinent to design
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills to engage students and effectively convey concepts and critique student work, as well as the ability to guide students in developing their portfolios
• Ability to translate complex design concepts into clear, accessible lessons
• Passion for design education and a commitment to student learning and development 

PREFERRED:

• Master's degree in Graphic Design, or related discipline
• Demonstrated success in teaching, lecturing, or mentoring students, either in an academic or professional setting, preferably in higher education in a studio art or design program
• A passion for teaching and a commitment to fostering a learning environment that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and professional growth among students
• Experience working in various design contexts, such as print, digital, branding, or advertising, is valuable
• A deep understanding of current trends in graphic design, technology, and visual communication, enabling the instructor to provide insights into the evolving nature of the field
• The ideal candidate would be able to bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice, inspiring students to hone their visual communication abilities. Practical experience, pedagogical skills, and a passion for the field are key qualifications 

In addition to graphic design, the School of Design offers courses in disciplines including animation (traditional and computer), interior architecture, UX/UI, game design and art, cinema visual effects, game programming, and software development, as well as general education courses in math and science. 

Please include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and three references. Further materials, such as official transcripts sent from the degree-granting institution, may be requested at a later date.

Entry level compensation rate for teaching one 3-credit course as of Fall 2026 is $5,635.00. Compensation for courses that carry fewer or more than three credits will be prorated down or up accordingly.

At Columbia, we offer a rewarding work environment for our faculty and staff. We take pride in offering competitive benefits with affordable health, dental and vision coverage; flexible spending accounts; commuter benefit program, life, and accidental, death & dismemberment coverage; paid and unpaid leave options; work/life benefits; educational assistance programs; and retirement and financial planning benefits. Click here for more information.

Columbia College Chicago actively promotes, access to an expansive array of social and cultural theories, practices and perspectives that are vitally important to the successful delivery of a contemporary creative curriculum and the college's mission to educate students who will author the culture of their times. These principles are essential to the educational experiences of our students, staff, and faculty.

We seek individuals with a demonstrated ability to work with students from a wide range of social and cultural backgrounds, and whose creative, scholarly and/or professional work contributes to a rich educational experience consistent with our mission. For more information, please visit: colum.edu/academic-access-and-excellence.

Additional Information: 

• Position subject to a background screening.
• This is a union position.
• This is position is overtime ineligible. 

Columbia College Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all local, state, and federal laws and regulations concerning civil rights. The college does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law.