Open Rank Lecturer - Navajo Language Instruction

University of New Mexico • Albuquerque, NM

1d

About The Position

Join a team of motivated, determined, like-minded individuals who are working to promote, teach, and study the Navajo language at UNM. The Navajo Language Program, part of the Department of Linguistics at the University of New Mexico, invites applications for a full time, 9-month appointment Open Rank Lecturer (I, II, or III) to begin August 10, 2026. The Lecturer should have experience teaching the Navajo language and the ability to incorporate cultural knowledge to enhance classroom instruction. To meet state standards and to fully prepare undergraduate students minoring in Navajo, proficiency in reading and writing Navajo is essential for classroom instruction. We are looking for a team player who enjoys collaborating on projects as well as working independently. The successful candidate is expected to learn how to use UNM’s online platform for web-enhanced instruction, to assist with program recruitment, promotion, and advisement, and to complete assigned administrative duties in a timely manner. Depending on the candidate’s areas of specialty and program need, teaching graduate level Navajo classes is a possibility. The candidate should be interested in improving Navajo language curriculum, be prepared to document classroom instruction, and contribute to the development of advanced Navajo courses. As part of UNM’s policies, all lecturers are reviewed annually, and the workload is determined by the Department Chair and university policies. The applicant will be joining a unique program as Navajo language has been taught at UNM for 55 years.

Requirements

• B.A. in Diné Studies, Education, Native American Studies, Linguistics or related field by date of appointment.
• Three years or more experience teaching Navajo in post-secondary settings.
• Proficiency in reading and writing Navajo

Nice To Haves

• Five years or more experience teaching Navajo language courses.
• Experience and/or training in developing and teaching online courses and working with Learning Management Systems.
• Experience incorporating Navajo culture into Navajo language pedagogy.
• Ability to work effectively with students and colleagues.
• A demonstrated commitment to cultivate an understanding of the rich and varied cultures of New Mexico and to the success of the university's mission to serve local and global communities.

Responsibilities

• Incorporate cultural knowledge to enhance classroom instruction
• Classroom instruction
• Assist with program recruitment, promotion, and advisement
• Complete assigned administrative duties in a timely manner
• Improve Navajo language curriculum
• Document classroom instruction
• Contribute to the development of advanced Navajo courses

Benefits

• The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees