The Department of Geosciences in the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation (FCFC) at the University of Montana (UM) invites applications for an Assistant Teaching Professor (non-tenure track) of Geoscience. We encourage applications from individuals with a passion for undergraduate education and high-impact learning practices, who can connect students with career opportunities in geosciences and related fields.
The successful candidate will teach undergraduate courses to support the Geosciences degree, as well as other programs in the FCFC and at UM. Teaching responsibilities will include both in-person and online versions of a large undergraduate survey course in earth systems science with an associated lab, an earth systems science course for future educators, and a lower-division course in introductory surface processes. Other course assignments will be tailored to program needs and the strengths of the candidate and may include field methods, computational methods, writing, and other courses related to earth and environmental sciences. The Geosciences curriculum encourages field-based learning, and there are many opportunities for field instruction. There will also be opportunities for advising and supervision of undergraduate student research and contributions to departmental outreach and other service roles. The successful candidate will be hired on an academic year contract, with the opportunity to pursue additional compensation in the summer (such as formal summer teaching).
The Department of Geosciences’ mission is to develop new knowledge regarding Earth's history, its environment and resources, engage our students in the process, and share that knowledge broadly. We have two areas of special focus: water and earth; in both areas, we teach and conduct research in an earth systems science context. Department faculty have specific expertise in hydrogeology, glaciology, sedimentology, and geomorphology. Additional information about the department can be found at https://www.umt.edu/geosciences/default.php
Position Details
Title: Assistant Teaching Professor
Schedule:Full-time academic year (10-month) position beginning fall semester 2026 (90% teaching; 10% service). Potential to renew annually.
Salary:$65,000-$70,000 depending on experience.
Benefits: Medical Insurance/Mandatory Retirement Contribution/Professional Development/Partial Tuition Waiver/Wellness
Required Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
Screening of applications will begin after the closing date of March 15, 2026; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established. Complete applications received by this date will be guaranteed consideration.
To receive full consideration, candidates are required to submit all of the following materials:
The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of “mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.
University of Montana (UM) is an equal opportunity employer. UM does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM’s non-discrimination policy and any applicable law.
Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request.
Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.
Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.
References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. Testing: Individual hiring departments at UM may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.
Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9). The University of Montana will require proof of authorization to work in the United States before final hiring. Further, based on the September 19, 2025, Presidential Proclamation and accompanying guidance from the USCIS and Dept. of State, the University may not be able to offer H-1B sponsorship. Particularly the University is not able to pay the $100,000 payment accompanying new H-1B visa petitions.
