Department of Art & Design, Assistant Professor - Art Illustration

CSU Careers•San Bernardino, CA

1d•$6,221 - $13,224•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Art & Design at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) is seeking a Tenure-Track Assistant Professor in Art with a focus in Illustration. The position begins in August 2027. CSUSB is a diverse institution serving approximately 19,000 students, with a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The successful candidate will contribute to active scholarship in illustration, be well-versed in contemporary and historic contexts, and possess a broad range of experience in interdisciplinary teaching, curriculum development, and established professional networks. The university offers support programs for junior faculty and encourages applications from candidates with experience in ethnically diverse settings and a commitment to serving diverse student populations.

Requirements

A terminal graduate degree from an accredited university in Illustration or an associated field.
2 years of university teaching experience as instructor of record in illustration and related fields (e.g., drawing, painting, printmaking).
Demonstrated record of excellence in teaching students from diverse backgrounds.
Ability to teach illustration for both fine art and commercial applications.
Deep knowledge of illustration history, theory, current trends, and contemporary practices including engagement with contemporary critical discourse in media, culture, and storytelling.
Demonstrated professional experience in illustration or a closely related field.
A portfolio of professional work demonstrating accomplishments and expertise with contemporary illustration practices, as well as instances of collaboration with local creative networks.
A proven record in coaching students towards professional goals and into career pathways.
Several years of experience advising students in portfolio preparation, professional best practices and identifying career opportunities within illustration and related creative fields.
Technical fluency with industry-standard software and digital workflows, including but not limited to Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Procreate, Clip Studio Paint, 3D software, and After Effects along with analog processes.
Degree in hand by time of appointment.

Nice To Haves

Three to five years of teaching experience at the undergraduate and graduate level.
A proven track record of excellence in teaching and a developed pedagogy devoted to bridging the gap between academic theory and professional practice, inspiring students to hone their visual communication abilities.
Deep expertise on professional best practices and industry standards relevant to illustrators, such as client relations, contracts, pricing, licensing, copyright, project management, freelance practice, entrepreneurship, portfolio development, and self-promotion.
A deep understanding of trends in illustration, technology, and visual communication, enabling the instructor to provide contemporary surveys of the field.
Established professional networks and demonstrated ability to collaborate with employers, studios, publishers, agencies, professional organizations, alumni, and other partners that can create opportunities for students.
Experience facilitating professional opportunities for students such as coordinating internships, working with clients, attending conferences, and leading other experiential and service-learning projects.
Achievements in the forms of publications, commercial projects, editorial work, commissions, exhibitions or other recognized accomplishments in the field.
Expertise in cutting-edge illustration programs and analog practices for application in a variety of media such as: print media, film, gaming, advertising, bookmaking, among others.
Fluency in industry-wide professional analog practices and digital software is expected, as well as a familiarity and willingness to incorporate emerging technologies as needed.
Evidence of scholarly activity, publication, and innovation is valued.
Evidence of exemplary graduate-level teaching and leadership experience at program level is preferred and should be noted in application.

Responsibilities

Teach all levels of ‘Imaging and Illustration’ courses (beginning, intermediate and advanced) that are core options in the BA in Art (with Art Education and Studio Art concentrations), the BFA in Art (Studio Art) and in the BA in Visual Art Studies, and in the Minor in Animation and Illustration.
As needed or on occasion, teach other courses in their area of expertise in the Art or Design curriculum (such as all levels of drawing/life drawing, special topics, senior capstones).
Perform committee duties at department, college, and university levels.
Continue professional and/or research work in their area of specialization.
Broaden links to local, regional, and national communities within their area of expertise to promote and further student success.
Demonstrate a commitment to excellence in teaching and mentoring a diverse student population.
Work effectively with faculty, staff and students across a wide range of disciplines.