Adjunct Faculty - Astronomy

Summary

At Amarillo College, our mission is:
Transforming our community and economy through learning, innovation, and achievement. Every team member, regardless of job title or duties, is responsible first and foremost, for assisting students in every way.

This is an exciting time to work for Amarillo College! We are seeking our next Adjunct Faculty - Astronomy who will be all-in on our mission and who is responsible for teaching introductory astronomy courses and associated labs. The role includes delivering high-quality instruction in classroom, laboratory, and online settings; preparing effective learning materials; and assessing student performance using clear, measurable outcomes.

Adjunct Faculty are expected to remain current in the field, integrate active-learning and evidence-based practices, and foster a supportive, inclusive learning environment that promotes student success.

This position is filled on an as need basis, contingent upon institutional needs.

Qualifications

EDUCATION:

Required:

Master's degree in Physics or a Master's degree with at least eighteen (18) graduate hours in Physics.

Preferred:
Graduate coursework or research in Astronomy/Astrophysics; documented training in college-level pedagogy.

EXPERIENCE:

Preferred:
One (1) year of teaching experience at the post-secondary level.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

* Teach evening Astronomy lecture and lab (and additional sections as assigned) in face-to-face, hybrid, or online formats.

* Plan, develop, and deliver organized instruction aligned with approved course outlines and learning outcomes; prepare syllabi and course calendars each term.

* Design and facilitate active-learning labs and activities that emphasize observation, data literacy, and scientific reasoning.

* Assess student learning through formative and summative measures; provide timely, constructive feedback and maintain accurate grade/attendance records.

* Utilize the College's learning management system and instructional technologies to post materials, communicate with students, and document outcomes.

* Participate in required orientations, meetings, and faculty development each semester; contribute to course and curriculum review and improvement.

* Support student success through regular office hours and proactive communication; refer students to campus resources as appropriate.

* Submit all reports, rosters, and documentation (e.g., census, final grades, assessment artifacts) on time.

* Maintain a safe laboratory environment and ensure proper use and care of instructional equipment and materials.

* Perform other work-related duties as required

* As an Amarillo College employee, seek knowledge of and pledge to actively engage in a culture of caring striving to serve students, peers and the community by embracing the AC Core Values:
Wow, Family, Fun, Innovation, and Yes!

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

* Demonstrated content knowledge in introductory astronomy and fundamental physics concepts relevant to the course.

* Ability to apply learner-centered, high-impact instructional methods and inclusive teaching practices.

* Ability to facilitate labs, guiding inquiry, and developing students' quantitative and scientific reasoning.

* Effective oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills; ability to motivate and support diverse learners, including non-traditional students and students with disabilities.

* Proficiency with instructional technology and productivity tools (e.g., LMS, presentation software, spreadsheets); ability to adapt to new systems.

* Strong organization, time management, and professional judgment.

* Ability to work independently and collaboratively as a team.

* Commitment to continuous improvement, assessment, and data-informed decision-making.

Salary:
Amarillo College Pay Grades, please review the TEACHING OVERLOAD COMPENSATION and ADJUNCT FACULTY COMPENSATION chart to view the salary pay scale. This is based on your highest level of education.

Physical Demands:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to travel between offices and buildings, and requires the ability to lift, carry, push, pull and/or maneuver office supplies up to twenty-five (25) pounds as needed.

Working Conditions:

Must be willing to work a flexible schedule (days, nights, weekends, holidays, and varying events if necessary).

Work Environment:
This position operates in a classroom, lab or professional office environment. This position uses standard office equipment (i.e. computers, phones, copy and fax machines, filing cabinets) and is in a high traffic area with continual interruptions. Must be adaptable to teaching in-person, hybrid, or online formats. Software used may include Microsoft Office, Colleague, learning management systems, and educational technology tools.