Assistant Teaching Professor, Instructor- Elementary Education

Location: Hattiesburg, Mississippi, United States

Employment Status: Full Time

About the Role

The School of Education at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) invites applicants for two (2) full-time, non-tenure track positions (one Assistant Teaching Professor, one Instructor) beginning August 2026. These roles require physical presence on campus and focus on training initial licensure candidates in elementary education to become technologically competent, culturally-responsive educators who impact P-12 student learning. The School of Education offers Bachelors and Masters degrees in Curriculum and Instruction and Elementary Education through face-to-face, online, and hybrid formats. Qualified applicants will contribute to teaching at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with colleagues on program development and enhancement of pre-service and in-service teacher education programs.
• Supervise elementary and/or special education practicum experiences and/or internships.
• Teach and mentor students across programs.
• Contribute to the mission of the university and profession through service activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

For Instructor Position:

• Graduate degree in Curriculum and Instruction, Elementary Education, or an elementary education-focused degree (e.g., content area teacher education) by August 2026.
• Two (2) or more years of full-time licensed teaching experience with standards-based curriculum in an elementary general education classroom.

For Assistant Teaching Professor Position:

• All requirements for the Instructor position.
• Doctoral degree in Curriculum and Instruction, Elementary Education, or an elementary education-focused degree, conferred by August 2026.

Skills

• Demonstrated ability to deliver accurate, concise, and quality communication (verbal and written) in a timely manner to a diverse population.
• Experience setting clear performance expectations and providing meaningful feedback.
• Experience and/or familiarity with technology use, particularly in the online learning environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in an instructional leadership role at the school or district level.
• Experience with teaching reading, mathematics, or inclusive practices in elementary settings.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Founded in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university dedicated to preparing over 13,000 students for success. USM is recognized for pioneering research in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and language development for children with communication disorders. The university is a national leader in disciplines such as cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development. USM offers programs in emerging technologies, including computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering, while addressing workforce shortages in education and nursing. Accredited in four major areas of the arts, USM is one of only 36 public institutions nationwide with this distinction. Home to the Golden Eagles, USM competes in 17 NCAA Division I sports. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.