Tenure-Track ASSISTANT PROFESSOR of Sound & Technology / UMKC CONSERVATORY / Theatre Division

University of Missouri System • Kansas City, MO

76d

About The Position

The UMKC Conservatory invites applications for a 9-month, full-time, tenure-track position in Sound Design and Technology at the rank of Assistant Professor, beginning in Fall 2026. This position involves teaching and research that extends into diverse media contexts including theatre, dance, music, and integrated opportunities. Here, 'media' refers to screen-based, interactive, and immersive environments where images interact with music, narrative, space, and technology. Examples include sound creation for digital platforms such as projections, installations, video mapping, animation, and digital design, as well as live or hybrid performance work. Candidates may ground their practice in traditional theatrical sound design while demonstrating interest or emerging expertise in these areas, or bring established professional experience in media design for live and immersive performance.

Requirements

• Terminal degree in Sound Design or Equivalent professional experience (ABD considered).
• Evidence of successful teaching experience, preferably at the University / professional level.
• Proficiency in advanced sound design technology, including ProTools, QLab, and similar software relevant to 21st-century entertainment audio production.
• Demonstrated and increasing profile of research and scholarly productivity, including sound design for the theatre, film, and emerging media forms.
• Active involvement in professional organizations, with long-term potential for leadership.
• Organizational and interpersonal skills necessary for success in higher education.
• Previous artistic leadership, collaboration, and community engagement through performance or educational initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Teach students in sound design and technology at the graduate and undergraduate levels, including introductory courses.
• Oversee ongoing curriculum development of Sound Design and Technology within the UMKC Conservatory and Theatre Division.
• Oversee and mentor graduate students in their coursework.
• Mentor and advise students in their production work.
• Oversee MFA Design and Technology - Sound Design graduate assistantship assignments.
• Participate in the Conservatory Production Team, including bi-weekly meetings and occasional work calls.
• Connect students with industry-standard tools, workflows, and professional portfolio development.
• Maintain an active agenda of creative activity, in sound design, sound technology, and related subjects.
• Engage in a variety of service activities including committees, outreach, and community partnerships.
• Engage in recruitment activities, including prospective MFA student evaluation.
• Collaborate with faculty across the Conservatory providing interdisciplinary experiences that train students in an integrated artist-scholar framework.

Benefits

• Generous leave
• Health plans
• Retirement contributions
• Educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Master's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees