Part-Time Faculty - Policy, Planning, and Management, Fall

The University of Southern Maine’s Department of Policy, Planning, and Management within our Muskie School of Public Service invites applications for a Part‑Time Faculty position to teach Food Planning and Policy (PPM 672) for our fall semester, beginning August 31, 2026.

This course is designed to build knowledge of the food system, how it functions and interacts— or could—with planning and public policy. The intent of the course is to familiarize students with basic issues in the production, distribution, marketing, and disposal of food, especially when elements may be influenced by civic action and public regulation. The course is a seminar and will develop and challenge students’ thinking through readings and structured discussions.

Students should have an increased understanding of food systems as a planning and community development topic, the forces shaping food systems, dimensions of conventional and alternative models, and their own relationship and choices respecting the contemporary American food system.

We are seeking student‑focused instructors who will be responsible for the full delivery and grading of the course. Responsibilities include teaching, assessing student performance, and meeting with students as needed. The instructor will be provided with the learning objectives, program competencies, and suggested topical outline and will be given a previous course syllabus for reference.

Part‑time faculty members are paid on a credit‑hour basis based on prior teaching experience, as determined by the Part‑Time Faculty Association of Maine (PATFA), an affiliate of the national American Federation of Teachers (AFT) union. Eligible part‑time faculty members may elect certain benefits provided by the University of Maine System. In addition, the Center for Academic Innovation provides learning‑design consulting and faculty development opportunities to help faculty create engaging programs, courses, and lesson plans grounded in evidence‑based best practices for every modality.

• A graduate degree in public policy or food policy (e.g., an MPPM) or in a related field.
• Experience teaching at the college level is preferred but not required.

• Cover letter describing qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae or resume.
• Finalist candidates will be asked to provide contact information for references.

We will begin reviewing applications immediately.

This position will remain open until filled.

We are not able to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship support.

Appropriate background screening will be conducted for the successful candidate.

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