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Science Professor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Science Professor information

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$52.3K

$84K

$120.9K

How much do science professor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for science professor in California is $84,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a science professor do?

A Science Professor teaches undergraduate or graduate students in various scientific fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, or environmental science. They develop and deliver lectures, create syllabi, and grade assignments. In addition to teaching, Science Professors often conduct original research, publish scholarly articles, and supervise student research projects. They may also participate in academic committees and contribute to curriculum development within their department.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a science professor?

To thrive as a Science Professor, you need deep subject matter expertise, a doctoral degree in your scientific field, and a robust track record of research and teaching. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software, and educational technology platforms is typically required. Strong communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help foster student engagement and collaborative research. These skills and qualifications are vital for effectively advancing scientific knowledge, inspiring students, and contributing to academic excellence.

What are some common challenges science professors face when balancing research and teaching responsibilities?

Science Professors often juggle multiple demanding tasks, including leading research projects, publishing papers, securing grants, and delivering high-quality instruction to students. Balancing these responsibilities can be challenging, as both research and teaching require significant time and attention. Effective time management, setting clear priorities, and leveraging support from colleagues and teaching assistants are key strategies. Many institutions also provide professional development resources to help faculty manage these dual roles, ensuring both research productivity and student engagement are maintained.

What is the difference between Science Professor vs Science Lecturer?

AspectScience ProfessorScience Lecturer
Required CredentialsDoctorate (Ph.D.) in ScienceMaster's or Doctorate, depending on institution
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research institutionsUniversities, colleges, community colleges
Employer & Industry UsageHigher education, research-focusedTeaching-focused, often contract or part-time
Common Search & ComparisonAcademic roles in science educationTeaching science at college level

Science Professors typically hold a Ph.D. and focus on research and teaching at universities, while Science Lecturers may have a master's or doctorate and primarily focus on teaching. Both roles are integral to science education but differ in responsibilities, credentials, and employment settings.

Infographic showing various Science Professor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,001 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Professor, Teaching Appointment, Environmental Science, University of San Francis

The University of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$103K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


University Of San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

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Job description

Job Title:
Visiting Assistant Professor, Teaching Appointment, Environmental Science, University of San Francisco
Job Summary:
The Department of Environmental Science at the University of San Francisco invites applications for a full-time Visiting Assistant Professor position for the 2027 calendar year to begin January 2027, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon funding approval. Candidates with interdisciplinary training in ecology and/or water resources are preferred, but other areas of specialization within the sphere of environmental science and management will be considered. The successful candidate will have breadth in environmental science and management and will contribute to both the Master of Science in Environmental Management (MSEM) and the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (ENVS) degrees offered by the Environmental Science Department.
Full Job Description:
Job Responsibilities: The successful candidate will teach undergraduate and graduate courses in environmental science and management, including introductory, capstone, and elective courses, depending on their area of expertise. The teaching load for this position is 24 units for the year, split between the graduate and undergraduate programs. This teaching load includes a combination of semester-long undergraduate courses (4 units) and half-semester graduate courses (2 units). Research mentorship responsibilities will include providing individualized support in the development and realization of graduate capstone projects. In addition, the successful candidate will be expected to engage in service to the Department and College.
Minimum Qualifications: A PhD or appropriate terminal degree in their field with the expertise to teach undergraduate and graduate-level courses in two or more of the following areas: introductory environmental science, environmental chemistry, environmental statistics and/or geospatial science (GIS), natural resources/water resources management, ecosystem science, ecological restoration, as well as broader management courses including but not limited to environmental remediation, risk assessment and management, climate change mitigation and urban sustainability/resilience. Experience advising students in independent research is required so that the candidate can support courses such as Research Methods and the Master's Project in our graduate program. This position requires a commitment to excellence in teaching within a culturally diverse environment. A strong record of teaching at the university level and an understanding of and commitment to the University of San Francisco's mission are required.
Applicants should submit: 1) a cover letter summarizing interests and qualifications; 2) a curriculum vitae; 3) a statement of teaching philosophy and experience, which should include what courses the candidate is interested in teaching and a reflection on teaching in a culturally diverse educational environment; 4) evidence of teaching ability (e.g., sample syllabi, teaching evaluations); and 5) three letters of recommendation, requested upon submission of application. Additional materials may be requested later in the process. Questions can be addressed to envs.search@usfca.edu. For full consideration, applications should be submitted by July 15, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
We invite candidates to find out more about the ENVS and MSEM programs at the ENVS website, the MSEM website, and the MSEM Blog. In addition, all new faculty have access to a free membership with the National Center for Faculty Development and Diversity and support from the Center for Teaching Excellence and the Center for Research, Artistic and Scholarly Excellence.
Full-Time/Part-Time:
Full time
Pay Rate:
Salary
Salary Range :
$103,184.83-$113,633.96 annualized; commensurate with experience

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