Job Description

The Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation at Pittsburg State University invites applications for a faculty position in Recreation. Degree level and experience will be considered in determining rank and tenure status. This is a 9 month‑ appointment beginning August 2027. Applicants with a PhD in Parks and Recreation Administration, Sports Administration, or closely related field will be considered for a tenure track appointment at the Assistant Professor rank. Applicants holding a master’s degree in Recreation and Sport Management, or closely related field, may be appointed to a non-tenure track Assistant Instructional Professor in rank.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Teaches undergraduate courses, including Community and Worksite Wellness, Camping and Outdoor Recreation, Facility Design and Operations, Administration, and other courses related to the B.S. in Recreation degree
• Mentors students and supports their academic and professional growth
• Participates in professional development and activities that support the field of Recreation
• Contributes service to the college and community
• Supports student learning and academic success through effective instruction, mentoring, and student engagement
• Delivers assigned courses through in-person instruction on campus unless otherwise directed by Pittsburg State University
• Maintains regular on-campus office hours in line with Pittsburg State University and department guidelines

Education and Experience

Required Education and Experience – Time of Hire

• Master’s degree in Recreation and Sport Management or closely related field
• 1 year of professional experience in public or commercial recreation industry

Candidates must hold a master's degree in Recreation and Sport Management or related field. This degree requirement is necessary for accreditation purposes and to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities that can only be attained through a formal educational program at this level.

Preferred Education and Experience – 

• Ph.D./Ed.D. (in progress) in Recreation and Sport Management or closely related field
• 1 year of experience teaching in Higher Education
• 1 year of professional experience in health or wellness settings in addition to public or commercial recreation

Job Type: Non-Tenure-Earning/Unclassified Faculty

Screening Services (Background Checks): Your employment with Pittsburg State University is contingent on a satisfactory criminal background and sex offender check.

Position Start Date: August 9, 2027

Application Documents Required*:

• Letter of Application
• Curriculum Vita/Resume
• Undergraduate and Graduate transcripts
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Names and contact information (address, email, and phone) of three references

First Consideration Date: February 5, 2027

Search Committee Chair: Dr. Shelby Hutchens, nhutchens@pittstate.edu

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire, as the university does not provide visa sponsorship for this position.

PSU will only accept applications submitted through this process.

Pittsburg State University is an Equal Opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a respectful and supportive environment for all employees. 

About Pittsburg State University

Founded in 1903, Pittsburg State’s 373-acre campus is a beautiful blend of historic buildings and modern facilities, including state-of-the-art athletics, arts, and research facilities.

Its residential and online undergraduate and graduate student population of nearly 6,000 is guided by an exceptionally talented and dedicated faculty, staff, and administrative team.

Pitt State’s hands-on learning environment and engagement by alumni working in a variety of professional sectors creates incredible academic, internship, and employment opportunities for students. Academic programs often bring home national honors.

The university enjoys a close relationship with Pittsburg residents as well as city and business leaders. Throughout town, you’ll see gorilla statues in front lawns and red and gold Gorilla spirit at local businesses. Students, faculty, and staff are highly engaged in the local school district and with service projects, and in turn the community is highly supportive of and engaged in university activities.

Faculty, staff, and students have access to many amenities, including discounts and free access to concerts, plays, athletic events on campus as well as discounts on meals and services off campus.

Pitt State has developed unique partnerships in downtown Pittsburg, 1.4 miles north of the main campus. There, Block22 and the historic Hotel Besse offer innovative student housing options and the new Kelce College of Business building, scheduled to open in July 2026, will feature state-of-the-art classrooms, collaboration spaces, and space for professional development and public events.

The university has earned institutional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission and two elite classifications from the Carnegie Foundation.