Instructor and Regional Writing Center Director

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

Position Description

The Department of Writing and Rhetoric at the University of Mississippi invites applications for Instructor of Composition and Rhetoric and Regional Campus Writing Center Director. This non-tenure track, 12-month position carries a 2/2/2 teaching load, with a 2/2/2 course release to supervise the day-to-day operations of the regional campus writing center. The position will be based on the Tupelo campus, with regular meetings also in Oxford.

The University’s Department of Writing and Rhetoric consolidates efforts to improve writing and speech instruction at all levels. The successful candidate will work in a collaborative environment to lead the DWR in its mission to improve literacy teaching, research, and service at the University of Mississippi. Duties will include the following:

• Developing and implementing successful strategies for teaching undergraduate writing courses, especially for non-traditional learners;
• Hiring, training, supervising, directing, and providing administrative support for undergraduate and graduate writing center tutors;
• Maintaining online writing center functionality;
• Developing training programs for writing center tutors to act as in-class assistants to teachers on writing issues;
• Evaluating and revising curricula;
• Contributing to a culture of professional development among writing instructional staff;
• Working collaboratively with UM Tupelo faculty and staff;
• Contributing to distributive assignment, course, and program assessments.

An M.A. in Composition and Rhetoric, English, Journalism, or a related field is required. A doctoral degree in a relevant field is preferred. The successful candidate will also demonstrate evidence of accomplished teaching of writing through at least three years as instructor of record and two or more years of experience in writing center administration.

The University of Mississippi is a public, comprehensive, research institution. As the oldest public institution of higher learning in the state and as a Carnegie Research University (high research activity), the institution’s primary functions are the creation, dissemination, and application of knowledge through a variety of undergraduate, graduate and professional programs and public service activities. The university's main campus at Oxford emphasizes a traditional, residential educational experience, with a central College of Liberal Arts and seven professional schools.

Interested candidates should apply online at http://jobs.olemiss.edu by submitting a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and a list of three references including their contact information. These materials should be attached to the on-line application. The search committee will begin reviewing applications immediately.

Position Details

Appointment (12 Month)

Assignment Type (Non-Tenure Track)

Application Procedures

Combine the documents into two individual documents and utilize the "cover letter" and "resume" upload feature.

About the University of MS & Oxford, MS

Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.

Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

EEO Statement