ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

University Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsUniversity Professor Jobs

University Professor information

See salary details

$42.5K

$80.1K

$135K

How much do university professor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for university professor in the United States is $80,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are University Professors?

University Professors are academic professionals who teach courses, conduct research, and contribute to the intellectual life of a college or university. They are responsible for designing curriculum, mentoring students, publishing scholarly work, and often participating in service to their institution and academic community. Professors may specialize in a particular field and can work towards tenure, which provides job security and academic freedom. Their roles may also include advising students, leading research projects, and engaging with the broader public through outreach or consultation.

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

To thrive as a University Professor, you need advanced subject matter expertise, a doctoral degree in your discipline, and a strong record of research and publication. Familiarity with learning management systems (e.g., Canvas, Blackboard), research databases, and presentation software is commonly required. Exceptional communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help professors engage students and collaborate with colleagues. These skills are essential for fostering academic excellence, advancing research, and contributing to the university community.

What is the difference between University Professor vs College Instructor?

AspectUniversity ProfessorCollege Instructor
Required CredentialsDoctorate degree often required, PhD preferredBachelor's or Master's degree typically sufficient
Work EnvironmentResearch and teaching at universities, often involved in academic researchTeaching primarily in classroom settings at colleges or community colleges
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, higher education institutionsColleges, community colleges, technical schools
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic roles, career paths in higher educationExploring teaching careers at college level

The main difference between a University Professor and a College Instructor lies in their educational requirements, work environment, and employer settings. University Professors typically hold a doctorate and engage in both teaching and research at universities, while College Instructors usually have a bachelor's or master's degree and focus primarily on classroom teaching at colleges or community colleges. Both roles are integral to higher education but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

How do university professors typically balance teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities?

University professors often juggle multiple responsibilities, including teaching courses, conducting research, and participating in departmental or university committees. Balancing these areas can be challenging, especially during peak times such as grading periods or grant deadlines. Most institutions provide some flexibility, allowing professors to adjust their focus based on career stage and departmental needs. Collaborating with colleagues and graduate students is also common, which can help manage research projects and administrative tasks more efficiently.

What is the highest paying professor job?

The highest paying professor roles are typically at research-intensive universities or in specialized fields such as medicine, law, or business. Full professors with tenure and significant research achievements often earn the highest salaries, which can exceed $200,000 annually depending on the institution and location.

Is it hard to get hired as a professor?

Getting hired as a university professor can be competitive, often requiring a strong academic record, relevant research, teaching experience, and advanced degrees such as a Ph.D. The hiring process typically involves multiple interviews, peer reviews, and a demonstration of expertise in the subject area.

How to get a job as a professor at a university?

To become a university professor, candidates typically need a doctoral degree in their field, relevant research experience, and a strong publication record. Academic positions often require applying through university job boards, participating in interviews, and demonstrating teaching and research skills. Building a professional network and gaining teaching experience can also improve chances of securing a faculty position.

Is there a demand for professors?

The demand for university professors varies by field and region but generally remains steady due to ongoing needs for higher education and research. Growth is expected in STEM, healthcare, and technology disciplines, often requiring advanced degrees and research experience. Job prospects can be influenced by institutional funding, student enrollment, and academic specialization.
More about University Professor jobs
What cities are hiring for University Professor jobs? Cities with the most University Professor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of University Professor jobs? The most popular types of University Professor jobs are:
What states have the most University Professor jobs? States with the most job openings for University Professor jobs include:
University Professor jobs near you
Infographic showing various University Professor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 16% Full Time, 74% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,057 per year, or $38.5 per hour.
Assistant Professor/ Associate Professor - Law School 2026 Hiring Announcement

Assistant Professor/ Associate Professor - Law School 2026 Hiring Announcement

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

241st of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Assistant Professor/ Associate Professor - Law School 2026 Hiring Announcement
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Assistant Professor/ Associate Professor - Law School 2026 Hiring Announcement at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
WayneState University Law School aims to hire up to three tenure-track facultymembers to begin in Fall 2026. We seek entry-level or junior (untenured)lateral candidates working in any subject but are especially interested incandidates in the following areas: criminal law and procedure; law and emergingtechnology; business and corporate law; labor and employment law; and theintersection of law and Black studies and the Black experience. We are lookingfor outstanding scholars and teachers whose experiences and perspectives willenrich our community.
Qualifications:
Juris Doctor (JD) degreefrom an accredited law school, along with substantial prior teaching orprofessional practice experience. Candidates must demonstrate the ability toeffectively perform the duties required.
RequiredApplication Materials: A cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the names andcontact information of three professional references.
School/College/Division:
H07 - Law School
Primary department:
H0701 - Deans Office Law School
Employment type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job category: Academic/Faculty
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Annual Salary
  • Salary minimum: TBD
  • Salary hire maximum: TBD
Working conditions:
This position is covered under the collective bargaining agreement between WSU and the WSU Chapter of the American Association of University Professors, which contains and settles all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours and other terms and conditions of employment.
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 3
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

What Wayne State University employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply