Assistant Professor of Professional Practice; Access to Justice​/Community Justice

Overview

The Department of Social Work at Utah State University invites applications for a 12‑month, non‑tenure track Assistant Professor of Professional Practice. This position focuses on the Transforming Communities Institute’s Access to Justice Initiative and its Community Justice Advocate (CJA) Program, which trains social workers as alternative legal service providers offering free legal triage and navigation. The candidate will expand the CJA model, broaden course offerings, and create for‑credit pathways for current students.

• Teaching (50%) – Develop and deliver undergraduate, graduate, and community‑based courses within the CJA program and ensure high‑quality, practice‑oriented learning experiences.
• Administration & Evaluation (40%) – Provide legal supervision and guidance for students and professionals pursuing the CJA credential; assist with program operations, including recruitment, reporting, and compliance with Utah State Courts; cultivate partnerships with community, legal, and governmental organizations; assist faculty researchers with program evaluation and applied research related to access‑to‑justice initiatives.
• Service (10%) – Engage in relevant service to the Department, College, University, and community to advance the land‑grant mission through collaboration, outreach, and leadership in access‑to‑justice efforts.

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited institution.
• 3–5 years of professional experience in civil legal services, particularly involving areas such as housing, debt, family law, or consumer protection.
• Experience providing mentorship or supervision to new or emerging legal professionals, law students, or allied practitioners.
• Demonstrated commitment to access to justice for vulnerable populations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across legal, academic, and community settings.

• MSW + JD strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated leadership in access‑to‑justice or civil legal service innovation.
• Experience developing and teaching university or professional education courses, with an emphasis on practice‑based or online learning.
• Experience designing, implementing, and evaluating programs.
• Record of successful grant writing, project management, and/or applied research related to justice, equity, or systems change.
• Familiarity with Utah’s legal landscape and legal innovation efforts.

Applicants should attach:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• 1–2 page single‑spaced cover letter describing qualifications and relevant experience.
• 1‑page single‑spaced statement addressing contributions to access to justice and commitment to innovation in legal services for vulnerable populations.
• Names and contact information for three professional references.

Minimum of $110,000 annually.

Utah State University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by university policy or applicable law.