Assistant Professor of English - 20th-21st Century American Literature in a Global Perspective (26/27)

21d•$90,276 - $98,244•Onsite

About The Position

The English Department in the College of Liberal Arts at the Cal Poly Solano Campus of California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) is seeking applications for a full-time, academic year, tenure-track Assistant Professor to begin August 17, 2026. This is an in-person teaching position at the Cal Poly Solano campus in Vallejo, CA. Specialization in modern and/or contemporary American literature (20th - 21st century) in a global perspective. Highly desirable specializations include ecocriticism (especially oceanic or “blue” humanities), environmental humanities, science and technology studies and/or media studies. We especially welcome experience or interest in contemporary maritime and oceanic issues including labor and legal frameworks, migration studies, urban environments, globalization, environmental justice, or Pacific studies. Applicants with interests in in public/oral history and public humanities are encouraged to apply. Ph.D. in English or related field required. A successful candidate will teach lower- and upper-division general education and major courses, have an active research agenda, and a commitment to contributing to the department through service activities. Salary Anticipated Hiring Range: $90,276 - $98,244/year, $7,523 - $8,187/month (Note that hiring level will be commensurate with the qualifications and experience of the candidate.) Although Cal Poly is primarily a teaching university, our faculty are expected to balance teaching with an active program of research/professional development (including publication), student supervision and advising, and participation in service activities at the department and college/university level. The typical teaching load is 12 units per semester, with a reduction in course load in each of the first two years to help new faculty establish an active program of research and professional development. Subject to further planning and approval, Cal Poly anticipates a possible transition to semester-based year-round operations (YRO). Under YRO, full-time academic year faculty may be assigned to teach in two consecutive semesters (Fall/Spring, Spring/Summer, or Summer/Fall) out of the three semesters offered annually. The two-semester sequence will constitute the regular academic year appointment. Faculty may also be eligible to teach in the third semester for additional compensation, subject to departmental needs and University policy. Equal Opportunity and Excellence in Education and Employment This position is open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, Cal Poly provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every student and employee has access to the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed in a university environment and in their communities. Cal Poly complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU’s Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices. Cal Poly is a diverse community of individuals who represent many perspectives, beliefs and identities, committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and intellectually vibrant environment. We cultivate a culture of open dialogue, mutual respect, and belonging to support educational excellence and student success. Through academic programs, student organizations and activities, faculty initiatives, and community partnerships, we encourage meaningful engagement with diverse perspectives. As a higher education institution, we are dedicated to advancing knowledge and empowering individuals to reach their full potential by prioritizing inclusive curriculum development, faculty and staff training, student mentorship, and comprehensive support programs. At Cal Poly, excellence is built on merit, talent, diversity, accessibility, and equal opportunity for all.

Requirements

Ph.D. in English or related field required. If ABD, Ph.D. must be conferred before August 2026.
Specialization in modern and/or contemporary American literature (20th - 21st century) in a global perspective.
Demonstrated university teaching experience.
Demonstrated proficiency in written and oral use of the English language is required.

Nice To Haves

Secondary specialties in ecocriticism (especially oceanic or “blue” humanities), environmental humanities, science and technology studies, and/or media studies.
Experience or interest in contemporary maritime and oceanic issues including labor and legal frameworks, migration studies, urban environments, globalization, environmental justice, or Pacific studies.
Experience or interest in public/oral history and public humanities.
Demonstrated experience and commitment to student-centered learning and teaching.
Demonstrated ability to collaboratively work in multidisciplinary settings.
Demonstrated experience working with diverse populations and fostering a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive environment.
Preference will also be given to those with relevant work experience and those who bring professional capabilities.