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 Position Number: ACA19-327

This position is a high priority for our District for

the 2019-2020 year and is contingent upon continue

available district, grant and state funding.

 College of the Canyons
Santa Clarita Community College District

announces an employment opportunity for

Chemistry Instructor

A Full-Time Tenure Track Faculty Position

Review Date: February 13, 2020

 

College of the Canyons is seeking a Full-Time Tenure Track Chemistry Instructor. The ideal candidate will provide dynamic instruction and leadership, as well as support our college’s commitment to educating the more than 32,000 racially and socioeconomically diverse students we enroll each year.  Currently, our student body is approximately 45.4 percent Latino/Hispanic, 32.2 percent White, 6.3 percent Asian, 5.5 percent African-American, 4.5 percent Pacific Islander, 2 percent multi-ethnic, and less than 1 percent Native American. The college was designated a Hispanic Serving Institution in 2015, reflecting our focus on enhancing the educational attainment and economic well-being of the community we proudly serve.  As a 2018 and 2019 Champion of Higher Education award recipient, ranked number one in Los Angeles County during 2019 for best two-year colleges for adult learners, one of the top transfer institutions in Los Angeles County, as well as one of 20 community colleges in the state selected for the California Guided Pathways Project, we are focused on enhancing equity and implementing policies and practices that help all students achieve successful academic outcomes while fostering a culture of completion, transfer, and job preparation. 

POSITION DESCRIPTION: 

This is a 10-month professional, full-time tenure track position beginning Fall 2020.  The position may include a combination of teaching, department, college, and community leadership functions.  Assignment may include day, evening, and weekend duties at all District sites. 

Canyons Hall

POSITION DESCRIPTION

  • Teaches a full load of courses in the Chemistry department according to approved curriculum course outlines, including but not limited to non-lab/General Education Chemistry courses, Organic Chemistry, Preparatory Chemistry, and General Chemistry, including Honors level and accelerated courses.
  • Maintains current, accurate records of course enrollment, student academic progress, and reports student progress in a timely manner.
  • Supports and provides leadership, development, and guidance in the maintenance of the chemistry curriculum.
  • Maintains office hours and participates in department, School, and college committees and governance.
  • Participates in and implements departmental and college program reviews.
  • Participates in additional faculty responsibilities, including college decision-making activities related to professional and academic matters. The activities will occur both within the department as well as in the larger College setting.
  • Performs other duties as assigned. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Possession of an unexpired California Community College Instructor Credential in Chemistry

OR-

Master’s in Chemistry

OR-

Bachelor’s in Chemistry or Biochemistry

AND

Master’s in Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Chemical Physics, Physics, Molecular Biology or Geochemistry

OR-

Equivalency:   Any Master’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education AND successful completion of 24 semester units in the discipline at the upper division and graduate level, a minimum of which must be 12 graduate level semester units.

Note to current adjunct COC instructors in the discipline:  If you were qualified and hired under the previous set of equivalencies, you may still qualify for this position.  Please contact Human Resources.

DESIREABLE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND ABILITIES 

  • Experience teaching Organic Chemistry and lab is highly desirable.
  • Demonstrated ability and evidence of breadth to teach topics in a general chemistry program as well as desired teaching experience in Honors level, Biological Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, and/or Nanotechnology.
  • Interest in and commitment to taking on additional duties, shared by department members, in support of the department planned activities.
  • Evidence in developing new courses and laboratory exercises.
  • Commitment to maintain currency in the discipline, including knowledge and use of computer and Internet-based tools required for presentation and course management materials, laboratory instruction, online teaching and use of advanced technology required in the discipline.
  • Working knowledge of modern analytical equipment (GC, HPLC, AA, FTIR, NMR, and MS spectroscopy) and the ability to infuse instrumentation into chemistry and related curricula (such as nanotechnology).
  • Experience with online teaching and pedagogy is desired.
  • Ability, flexibility, and willingness to teach a wide range of classes as schedules and institutional commitments require including but not limited to courses at both Valencia and Canyon Country campuses, hybrid courses, online courses, and accelerated courses.
  • Strong commitment to professional growth and development, and to the continued innovation and improvement of successful teaching.
 
  • Ability to work effectively with computers and other forms of advanced technology utilized in providing high quality instruction and the understanding and successful use of learning technology.
  • Willingness to facilitate and encourage student success by working to develop varied and innovative academic learning environments.
  • Ability to communicate professionally and clearly with students, faculty, and staff, both orally and in writing.
  • Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with on-campus groups (including students, faculty, administrators and staff), as well as off-campus community and education partners.
  • In addition to being well qualified to teach in their respective disciplines, it is desirable that faculty have additional abilities and interests in contributing to other professional pursuits at the College, such as: instructional innovation, second language ability, sponsoring clubs, new program development, student success initiatives and community outreach.
  • Experience teaching to, demonstrates sensitivity to, and possesses an understanding of the diverse academic, socio-economic, cultural, ethnic and disability backgrounds of community college students. 

PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Faculty members at College of the Canyons facilitate student learning by working to develop every student’s abilities and by designing varied and exciting learning environments.
  • Faculty members work as team members with all staff, create innovations in teaching and learning methods, and work to provide an environment for students to be partners in learning.
  • Faculty members also assist in program planning, carry out related projects and evaluate related department programs and faculty. 
  • Faculty members carry out their professional responsibilities by participating in the college decision-making activities related to academic and professional matters via meetings, by participating on project teams, by engaging in ongoing and meaningful professional development, and by providing support to students on a one-to-one and small group basis at regularly scheduled times.

In addition to professional expertise in teaching within the discipline, applicants should possess the following abilities and attitudes that have been identified as important to successful performance in the position.

PROFESSIONAL ABILITIES

  • Success and commitment as a team player, including the ability to engage in cooperative problem solving;
  • Success at initiating, executing and following up on projects, including the ability to set specific objectives and measure achieved results;
  • A commitment to the mission and values of the community college;
  • A positive attitude, including the ability to foster collegiality;
  • Flexibility, including the acceptance of and willingness to change;
  • Open-mindedness, including fairness and the ability to see multiple perspectives;
  • The willingness to take risks and be innovative;
  • A willingness to see complex tasks through to completion; and
  • The willingness to accept responsibility for professional and personal growth.

Aliso Lab Photo

 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Position will require frequent exposure to and the ability to work safely with hazardous and potentially hazardous chemicals in the laboratory setting. Position requires standing for extended periods of time plus frequent periods of sitting and viewing a monitor and walking, which may include climbing staircases. Position also requires dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard and related equipment; reaching, bending, kneeling, crawling and stooping; frequently exert 10-20 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects; hearing and speaking to communicate and provide information to others; vision to read printed material and computer monitor; handling and working with various materials and objects; and travel between campuses to teach at all District sites.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

  • Ten-month position; anticipated starting date Fall 2020.
  • Initial Salary Placement on Academic Salary Schedule C is dependent on education and experience.  Salary range is from: $64,116 – $101,928 annually (adjusted for 12 months of pay per year).  Column placement is based on education and step placement will be based on years of professional experience, not to exceed nine (9) years’ experience for a maximum placement of Step 10:  For details, click on link to Academic Salary Schedule
  • Part of the teaching assignment may be evenings and/or weekends at all District sites.
  • The instructor may be expected to deliver instruction utilizing nontraditional delivery methods.
  • An excellent benefit package including medical, vision, dental, life and Section 125 is offered.
  • Proof of eligibility to work in the United States and signing of loyalty oath per government codes 3100-3109.
  • Successful completion of background fingerprint clearance, pre-employment physical examination (disabilities not related to the physical job will not affect the application process) and TB screening.
  • Meeting applicable eligibility requirements under CalPERS or CalSTRS if you are a current or former member.
  • Board of Trustees approval.
  • Official transcript must be submitted upon offer of employment.
  • Position is contingent upon funding and is subject to change.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Santa Clarita Community College District is committed to employing qualified administrators/managers, faculty, and staff members who are dedicated to student learning and success. The Board recognizes that diversity in the academic environment fosters awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students.  The Board is committed to hiring and staff development processes that support the goals of equal opportunity and diversity, and provide equal consideration for all qualified candidates. The District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religious creed, color, ethnic or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, uniformed service member status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, pregnancy, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected basis under the law.

Applicants who have disabilities may request that accommodations be made in order to complete the selection process by contacting the Human Resources office directly at (661) 362-3427.

Honor Grove Students

ABOUT THE DISTRICT

Innovative. Collaborative. Entrepreneurial. These characteristics not only define College of the Canyons, they are embodied by the faculty, staff and administrators who make this college unique among the 114 California Community Colleges.

Established in 1969, College of the Canyons is among the fastest-growing colleges in California and the nation. It is widely recognized as a model community college for enhancing student access, success and equity. Its completion rates rank among the highest in the state. The college has established a well-deserved reputation for bolstering economic development and offering innovative career technical education responsive to industry needs.

Guided by visionary leadership, the college serves a 367-square-mile area of northern Los Angeles County that includes the dynamic, growing Santa Clarita Valley. A steady influx of new residents and businesses creates a spirit of possibilities that inspires the college to be flexible, creative and attuned to the community’s evolving needs. The growing diversity of the community is mirrored by the college, which qualifies as a Latino-serving institution.

The college’s influence in the community is best illustrated by the dozens of collaborative partnerships it has forged with local school districts, government entities and service organizations. Examples include the Performing Arts Center’s K-12 Arts Education Outreach initiative, which allows thousands of children to experience the arts each year, and Academy of the Canyons, an early/middle college high school at the Valencia campus that is ranked among the top 10 percent of high schools in the nation.

With campuses in Valencia and Canyon Country, the college offers 92 associate degree programs, including 23 associate degree for transfer (AD-T) options, as well as 71 certificate programs. Classes are offered during traditional fall and spring semesters, as well as shorter, intensive summer and winter sessions. Additional educational opportunities exist at the University Center, whose four-year colleges and universities offer approximately 30 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs, as well certificate and credential programs.

Because of the college’s commitment to meeting the needs of the community, local voters have approved two bond measures valued at more than $240 million since 2001. The college also secures substantial funds from the state and millions of dollars in grants each year that allow new, cutting-edge programs to be developed and facilities built to accommodate them.

Given its commitment to growth and innovation, College of the Canyons sets a new standard for what a college can achieve. It is a vital cultural, educational and economic force in the region. Join us to discover unexpected possibilities, the freedom to innovate and an opportunity to shape the future.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants are encouraged to complete their applications online. Please visit our website at https://www.canyons.edu/administration/humanresources/index.php. If you require assistance, please call the Human Resources office at (661)362-3427 or our TTY Line at (661)362-5178.  Applicants may check the status of their application online and may expect to be notified within approximately 4 - 5 weeks following the Review Date as to the status of their application.

All application materials must be uploaded online or received in the Human Resources office by the end of the day on the review date in order to assure consideration for this position. Postmark is not acceptable for this purpose. Separate application materials must be submitted for each position applied for. Materials submitted become property of the District and will not be returned, copied, or considered for other openings.  The Human Resources office is located in the University Center, Suite 360 at 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA, 91355.

The following application materials are required for your application to be complete.  Incomplete applications will not be considered. 

  • A District Academic Application.
  • Cover letter addressing how and why candidate meets the required and desired qualifications for this position.
  • A detailed resume summarizing education and experience.
  • At least three (3) current (within the last five years) letters of recommendation are required. Letters must be signed (no fancy font signatures) and dated.  One formal, signed teaching evaluation (dated within the last five years) may be substituted in lieu of one letter of reference.  Three (3) current letters of professional reference that clearly describe why you are a strong candidate/good fit for this specific position based on the job description, are preferred.
  • College transcripts verifying educational degree(s) required for the position. Submit unofficial copies of transcripts for application purposes. Copies of college diplomas are not acceptable in lieu of transcripts. Please see our website for evaluation requirements for units and degrees earned at foreign institutions.
  • Confidential Recruitment Source Information (Voluntary Survey). This is voluntary.

Additional Application Submission Materials Required:

  • A sample teaching portfolio for Organic or General Chemistry which includes a syllabus, exam(s) and any other relevant materials.
  • A statement of teaching philosophy. 

Human Resources Office

(661) 362-3427

TTY/TDD (661) 362-5178 or visit our website at

https://www.canyons.edu/administration/humanresources/index.php

It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all application materials are fully and correctly submitted. All materials submitted are for this position only and become the property of the District.  Materials will not be returned, copied or considered for other openings. Resumes may not be submitted in lieu of the official application form.

The College is expecting to conduct initial interviews the week of March 16, 2020 and conduct final interviews either the week of March 16 or March 23, 2020. This is an estimated timeline, and is subject to change. 

Notes:  

  • Hiring committees review all complete qualified application packets and select applicants for interview based on those who most closely meet the criteria listed in the job announcement.  Possession of the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview. 
  • A teaching demonstration will be required for those candidates selected for an initial interview. 
  • Current COC employees who are applying for this position:  Please be aware that materials from your personnel file are not included as part of the application file; therefore, please provide the same requested application materials as any other applicant.

Position is offered contingent on funding. We reserve the right to withdraw, extend the filing date, reopen, or delay filling this position. Recruitment may continue until the position is filled.

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