Assistant Professor of Spanish and Portuguese Languages and Literatures

The anticipated annual academic year salary range is from $85,000 to $89,000, based on the current CSU salary schedule.

The San Diego State University Department of Spanish and Portuguese Languages and Literatures seeks to hire a tenure-track assistant professor with expertise in Mexican Studies — Contemporary Literature and Culture. Areas of concentration may include, but are not limited to, Mexican literature and culture, Mexico/USA transborder cultural production, Mexican digital and visual arts, Mexican pop and mass culture, Mexican binational literature and diaspora studies, the Mexican experience in the USA.

The Department of Spanish and Portuguese Languages and Literatures has a robust record of research, teaching and service in the field of Mexican Studies. Our major in Spanish has historically been one of the most robust in the nation, and our M.A. in Spanish plays a crucial role in the region. Among other initiatives, our department and SDSU have hosted the Baja California Literature Archive, as well as several exchange and study abroad programs in different regions of Mexico.

San Diego State University offers a rich benefits package that constitutes a major portion of total compensation.

Required qualifications by November 13, 2026

• A record of original scholarship and demonstrated capacity to a) develop a vigorous and independent program of research; b) teach graduate and undergraduate courses; and c) engage in both campus and professional service activities.

Required qualifications by date of hire
: A Ph.D. in Hispanic Studies (or equivalent) with a dissertation focusing on Mexican Literature and Culture with all degree requirements met.

Preferred qualifications

• Ability to teach a range of well-established courses in the field of Mexican Studies, including literature, culture, and civilization, at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and to expand our curriculum in some of these areas.
• A desire to contribute to the growth of the Mexican area of studies in our department and university, and a track record of commitment to program development and student recruitment.
• Ability to teach broad Latin American literature and culture courses, as well as language course offerings as needed.
• Preparation for teaching students from diverse backgrounds.
• Potential for developing connections with the cultural and higher education institutions on the Mexican side of the San Diego/Tijuana border.
• Demonstrated proficiency in interdisciplinary and collaborative approaches.
• Ability to direct advanced undergraduate and/or graduate student research.
• A record of publications, presentations, and/or funding.
• Cover letter, including how the applicant meets or will meet required qualifications, preferred qualifications, and “Building on Inclusive Excellence” criteria (at least two to be specified by the candidate).
• Names and contact information for three references (at least one letter should speak to the candidate’s excellence in teaching).
• A published article or book chapter.
• Evidence of teaching excellence (including student feedback surveys).

SDSU requires that individuals seeking faculty employment provide at the time of application authorization to conduct background checks if they become a finalist for the position; applications without this authorization will be considered incomplete and not considered.

Pursuant to Education Code 89521, the California State University requires that employment applicants disclose any final administrative decision or final judicial decision issued within the last seven years determining that the applicant committed sexual harassment.