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Visiting Professor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Covista

Fundamentals Visiting Professor

Sacramento, CA · On-site

As a Part-Time Visiting Professor, you will inspire our motivated students to realize their educational and career goals while enjoying a flexible schedule, excellent compensation, strong mentorship ...

Covista

Pediatric Visiting Professor

Sacramento, CA · On-site

As a Part-Time Visiting Professor, you will inspire our motivated students to realize their educational and career goals while enjoying a flexible schedule, excellent compensation, strong mentorship ...

Covista

Pediatric Visiting Professor

Sacramento, CA · Hybrid

As a Part-Time Visiting Professor, you will inspire our motivated students to realize their educational and career goals while enjoying a flexible schedule, excellent compensation, strong mentorship ...

Covista

Fundamentals Visiting Professor

Sacramento, CA · Hybrid

As a Part-Time Visiting Professor, you will inspire our motivated students to realize their educational and career goals while enjoying a flexible schedule, excellent compensation, strong mentorship ...

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$79K

$133.2K

How much do visiting professor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for visiting professor in California is $79,008.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $90,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a visiting professor?

A Visiting Professor is an academic professional who temporarily joins a university or college, usually from another institution, to teach, conduct research, or collaborate on academic projects. These appointments are typically for a fixed term, ranging from a semester to a few years. Visiting Professors bring fresh perspectives, expertise, and often collaborate on research or curriculum development. Their presence helps foster academic exchange and broadens opportunities for students and faculty. They may return to their home institution after completing their appointment.

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

To thrive as a Visiting Professor, you need advanced subject matter expertise, a terminal degree (such as a PhD), and a record of research or professional achievement in your field. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), virtual teaching tools, and current pedagogical methods is often required. Exceptional communication, adaptability, and cross-cultural awareness help build rapport with students and colleagues in diverse academic environments. These skills are essential for delivering high-quality instruction, contributing to institutional goals, and adapting quickly to new academic settings.

What are some common challenges faced by visiting professors when integrating into a new academic institution?

Visiting Professors often encounter challenges such as adapting to a new campus culture, understanding institutional policies, and quickly building rapport with colleagues and students. They may also need to familiarize themselves with different teaching platforms or curriculum standards within a limited timeframe. Proactive communication, seeking mentorship from permanent faculty, and participating in departmental meetings can help Visiting Professors navigate these transitions smoothly and make the most of their temporary appointments.

What is the difference between Visiting Professor vs Adjunct Professor?

AspectVisiting ProfessorAdjunct Professor
CredentialsTypically PhD or equivalent, with significant academic or professional experienceUsually master's degree or higher, with relevant industry experience
Work EnvironmentFull-time or part-time teaching at a host university for a limited periodPart-time teaching, often at multiple institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities and colleges, often for temporary or special appointmentsEducational institutions, primarily colleges and universities, for adjunct roles

Visiting Professors are typically experienced academics invited to teach or conduct research temporarily at a university, often holding a PhD. Adjunct Professors usually have industry or academic experience and teach part-time without a permanent appointment. Both roles involve teaching, but Visiting Professors often have a more prominent academic background and are engaged for a specific period, whereas Adjunct Professors focus on part-time instruction across multiple institutions.

How do you become a visiting professor?

To become a visiting professor, candidates typically need an established academic or professional background in their field, a record of research or teaching, and an invitation or approval from the host institution. The process often involves submitting a CV, research proposal, and letters of recommendation, and may require relevant certifications or credentials. Visiting positions are usually temporary and may require negotiation of terms and funding arrangements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Visiting Professor jobs in California?

The most popular types of Visiting Professor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Visiting Professor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Visiting Professor job openings:

Visiting Professor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Visiting Professor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,008 per year, or $38 per hour.

VISITING PROFESSOR IN CHEMISTRY

Claremont, CA • On-site

Scripps College
See more jobs at Scripps Collegeexternal

$74K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description
VISITING PROFESSOR IN CHEMISTRY
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL SCIENCES
SCRIPPS AND PITZER COLLEGES
The Chemistry Program the Department of Natural Sciences of Pitzer and Scripps Colleges seeks to hire a visiting professor to teach in our general chemistry courses, with opportunities for teaching in upper division courses including organic chemistry lab. The position will begin in January 2026. Opportunities to direct undergraduate research projects are also possible. This position is a full-time, 18-month appointment with the potential for renewal. Rank will be either Visiting Assistant Professor or Visiting Professor, depending on experience. Candidates must have a Ph.D. in chemistry or a related field before starting the position; prior teaching experience is strongly preferred.
The salary for this position will range from $74,000-$80,000.
Applications should be uploaded to Interfolio and must include (1) a cover letter describing your interest in and capacity for the position, (2) a curriculum vitae, (3) a statement describing your approach to teaching and how you make learning accessible to all students, regardless of preparation, life experience, and scientific background, and (4) the names and e-mail addresses of three references. Please notify your references that recommendation letters will be required promptly should you advance to the semifinalist stage. Inquiries regarding the position may be e-mailed to Professor Ethan Van Arnam at evanarnam@natsci.claremont.edu. Review of applications will begin October 27th, 2025, and the position will remain open until filled.
The Department of Natural Sciences is an equal-opportunity employer. In keeping with its ongoing commitment to build and support a diverse and equitable academic community, The Department of Natural Sciences actively encourages applications from women and members of historically underrepresented groups. Additional information about the department may be found at https://natsci.claremont.edu/.
Qualifications
Candidates must have a Ph.D. in chemistry or a related field before starting the position; prior teaching experience is strongly preferred.
Application Instructions
Applications should be uploaded to Interfolio and must include (1) a cover letter describing your interest in and capacity for the position, (2) a curriculum vitae, (3) a statement describing your approach to teaching and how you make learning accessible to all students, regardless of preparation, life experience, and scientific background, and (4) the names and e-mail addresses of three references. Please notify your references that recommendation letters will be required promptly should you advance to the semifinalist stage.

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