Adjunct Faculty - Geography

About the Role

Grand Rapids Community College’s Department of Social Sciences is seeking a dedicated Adjunct Instructor to teach Geography class(es) in the fall and/or winter semesters on our Grand Rapids and/or Lakeshore campuses. The ideal candidate will have a passion for teaching and a commitment to student success, ensuring a high-quality learning experience for all students. Adjunct needs are determined on a semester-by-semester basis, as are the number of sections offered each semester.

Classes are held at a variety of times (Monday through Saturday), locations (main campus, Lakeshore, and middle college partners), and modalities (in-person, online, hybrid, and virtual). For semester start and end dates, please see GRCC’s Academic Calendar.

Responsibilities

• Teach GRCC course offering(s) in Geography.
• Follow the required syllabus template and use the required textbook as determined by the department.
• Meet classes during the scheduled time and for the appropriate length of time required by the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• State course outcomes clearly at the beginning of the course and define the criteria and procedures for evaluating student attainment of these objectives.
• Promote an intellectually stimulating classroom atmosphere conducive to high academic achievement and stated course outcomes.
• Keep accurate student academic records and report grades by the contractual deadline.
• Make reasonable accommodations as approved by Disability Support Services to meet students’ needs in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Follow College policy on the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
• Respond to communication in a timely manner and provide reasonable means for student access to course information.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in a related field from an accredited institution.
• Teaching experience at a community college preferred.
• Experience working with adults from diverse backgrounds and with varying academic skills.
• Participation in professional development and/or continuous improvement activities to remain current in the field.

Skills

• Demonstrated expertise in the subject area and a commitment to continuous professional development.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse student population and faculty team.
• Proficiency in using instructional technology and learning management systems (e.g., Gmail, Canvas, Blackboard).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Some evening work (grading, preparing for class, responding to email questions) will be required.
• Ability to sit or stand for long periods of time.
• Understanding of and appreciation for the community college philosophy and student population.
• Interest in working with diverse student populations representing a wide range of age, ethnicity, national origin, and ability.
• Commitment to serving the Kent County community.
• Demonstrated responsiveness, initiative, and organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to perform routine and unexpected duties with mature judgment and flexibility regarding interruptions and schedule changes.
• High energy level with enthusiasm for helping and supporting students and colleagues.
• Ability to work under pressure while possessing mature judgment and flexibility.
• Good judgment in handling sensitive or difficult situations in a professional manner.

Working Conditions

GRCC will comply with any mandated health and safety requirements. Compliance information is available on our policies website.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment that requires flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to handle multiple interruptions while making quick decisions.

Benefits

• Wellness Program: Access resources for physical and mental wellbeing, including an onsite gym membership.
• Continuous Learning: Career development and educational opportunities.
• Retirement Plans: Secure your future with retirement options, including the state retirement plan.

Only adjunct faculty living in the state of Michigan can teach classes for GRCC.