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Geology Instructor Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Geology Instructor information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$8

$29

$80

How much do geology instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for geology instructor in Raleigh, NC is $29.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.57 and $31.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Geology Instructor vs Geoscience Professor?

AspectGeology InstructorGeoscience Professor
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology or related field; teaching certification often preferredDoctoral degree (Ph.D.) in Geoscience or related field; extensive research experience
Work EnvironmentHigh school, community college, or technical institute classroomsUniversities and research institutions, often involved in research and academic publishing
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, government agencies, private training programsHigher education institutions, research organizations, academia

Geology Instructors typically teach at high school or community college levels with a focus on foundational geology courses, requiring less advanced degrees. Geoscience Professors usually hold Ph.D.s and engage in research, teaching at universities, and publishing scholarly work. Both roles involve teaching but differ in credentials, research expectations, and work environment.

What are some common challenges a Geology Instructor faces when teaching complex geological concepts to students with diverse backgrounds?

One common challenge for Geology Instructors is presenting intricate topics—such as plate tectonics, mineral identification, or geologic time—in an accessible way to students with varying levels of science background. Balancing hands-on fieldwork, lab exercises, and lectures is key to engaging all learners, but it can be demanding to adapt teaching methods for different learning styles. Additionally, staying current with the latest research and integrating real-world examples can help make the material more relatable. Collaboration with colleagues in environmental science or earth science departments often enhances course offerings and provides broader context for students.

What does a Geology Instructor do?

A Geology Instructor teaches students about the Earth, its materials, processes, history, and structure. They design lesson plans, deliver lectures, and lead laboratory or field exercises to help students understand topics like rocks, minerals, earthquakes, volcanoes, and the Earth's history. Instructors may work at high schools, colleges, or universities, and also assess student progress through exams and assignments. Additionally, they may conduct research or participate in outreach activities to promote interest in geology.

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

To thrive as a Geology Instructor, you need a strong background in geosciences, often with a master's or doctoral degree and relevant teaching experience. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, geospatial software (like GIS), and online learning platforms is typically expected. Excellent communication, enthusiasm for teaching, and the ability to engage and mentor students are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies are crucial for delivering effective instruction, fostering student interest, and ensuring a high-quality educational experience.
What are popular job titles related to Geology Instructor jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Geology Instructor jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Adjunct Instructor, Geology

$34.15 - $38.30/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Salary: $34.15 - $38.30 Hourly
Location : Durham, NC
Job Type: Adjunct Instructor (PT)
Job Number: 23-24-00121
Division: Academics and Guided Career Pathways
Department: Physical Sciences
Opening Date: 12/18/2023
Closing Date: 9/30/2026 12:00 AM Eastern
FLSA: Exempt
Description
Do Great Things! Durham Technical Community College is hiring an adjunct instructor for Geology in the Associate in Science Program. The Adjunct Instructor is responsible for course preparation, delivery, grading, and records management. The Instructor will work closely with the Discipline Chair and other discipline or cross-discipline faculty on matters related to and for the benefit of the Science and Math department and its students. More specifically, and consistent with the terms and conditions of appointment as stipulated in the contract of employment, the Instructor is accountable for the duties listed.
Examples of Duties
  1. Teach all courses as assigned, for the full duration of scheduled instruction.
  2. Be fully prepared with a syllabus and instructional plans for each class session in accord with the stated objectives of the course.
  3. Enforce academic policy and procedures at all times, and comply with institutional rules and regulations.
  4. Maintain complete course and student records, reports, and forms.
  5. Stay current with developments in the field of instruction.
  6. Assume other necessary responsibilities and perform additional tasks as assigned by the chair, department dean, chief instructional officer, or president, in meeting the needs of the department, division, and college. This includes completing all mandatory training required by the college.
  7. Assume responsibility for laboratory/classroom preparation, including maintenance and cleanup, and recommend, as necessary, appropriate laboratory supplies and equipment.

Minimum Qualifications
A master's degree in geology, or related subject, with at least 18 graduate semester hours in geology.
Work Experience:
Successful experience teaching science at a university or community college is preferred.
Supplemental Information
  1. Thorough understanding of and commitment to the mission and philosophy of the North Carolina Community College System.
  2. Knowledge of equitable teaching practices in the field of geology.
  3. Demonstrated ability to use modern instructional technology (Microsoft Office, learning management systems, email, Internet, student information databases, and library research databases) and experience with Internet-based instruction.
  4. Competence in oral and written communication skills necessary for effective teaching.
  5. Sensitivity to the needs and expectations of students, colleagues, and community groups, with a focus on equitable teaching.
  6. Ability to be organized, accurate, and punctual with paperwork and assigned tasks.
  7. Evidence of strong interpersonal skills, organizational skills, and effective oral and written communication skills.
  8. Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
  9. Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
  10. Ability to make presentations to small and large audiences.
  11. Ability to establish and maintain effective, civil, and respectful communication and interpersonal relations throughout the college and community.
  12. Personal integrity, honesty, and the ability to maintain confidentiality.
  13. Familiarity with OSHA standards as they apply to educational environments.

Physical Demands:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. The physical and mental demands described as follows are representative of those that must be met by an employee in performing the essential functions of this job:
  • Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.
  • Ability to move between classrooms, buildings, and campuses.
  • Ability to express or exchange ideas.
  • Ability to lift, at times, 10 lbs.
  • Good eye/hand dexterity.

Normal Working Hours:
Published meeting times, preparation, and grading for contracted courses. Contracted hours may not exceed more than an average of 12 contact hours (28 working hours) per week, per semester, across all departments at the college.
This position is not eligible for benefits. For more information, please visit
01
Do you have experience teaching this subject, or related subjects, at a university or community college?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Which statement below best describes the highest level of education you have completed?
  • Less than High School
  • High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (GED)
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Master's degree
  • Doctorate degree

03
Do you have at least 18 graduate semester hours in Geology or a related subject?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question