Lecturer - Geography

SOCIAL SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

The Social Sciences Department in the College of Liberal Arts at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, seeks a broadly-trained Human Geographer for a one-year full-time (non-tenure-track) lecturer appointment in Geography beginning August 17, 2026. The successful candidate will teach lower- and upper-division courses fulfilling General Education and major requirements, including GEOG 1150 (Human Geography), GEOG 3308 (Global Geography), and GEOG 3350 (The Global Environment), with possible additions such as GEOG 2218 (Applications in GIS) or GEOG 3328 (Remote Sensing).

The expected teaching load is five courses per semester.
An MA or MS in Geography is required. A specialization in Economic, Political, or Urban Geography (or similar sub-field) is desired, as is the ability to teach/apply advanced Geospatial Technologies in the area of specialization. Candidates with documented experience in undergraduate instruction will be given preference.
We seek a teacher committed to excellence in undergraduate instruction and Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing philosophy.

Lecturer A: $5,507-$6,677
Lecturer B: $6,221-$13,224
Lecturer C: $6,825-$14,523
Lecturer D: $8,593-$15,221

• MA or MS in Geography
• Ability to teach general education courses in Geography
• Demonstrated teaching experience or potential for successful teaching
• Demonstrated commitment to teaching and serving diverse student populations and to advancing access, equity, and inclusion within the curriculum and department
• Demonstrated experience and commitment to student-centered learning and teaching, as well as the ability to collaboratively work in multidisciplinary settings
• Demonstrated proficiency in written and oral use of the English language

• Ph.D. (or ABD) in Geography with a specialization in Human Geography—especially Economic, Political, or Urban Geography or a closely related sub-field
• Experience developing inclusive and culturally responsive curriculum reflecting diverse historical perspectives
• Interest in interdisciplinary teaching and collaboration across programs
• Evidence of effective communication and collegial engagement with students and colleagues from diverse backgrounds
• Demonstrated ability to work with a diverse population fostering a respectful, collaborative, supportive, and inclusive environment
• Preference will also be given to those with relevant work experience and those who bring professional capabilities

This position is open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, Cal Poly provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every student and employee has access to the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed in a university environment and in their communities.

Cal Poly complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU’s Nondiscrimination Policy.

We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices.

All CSU employees are designated "mandated reporters" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act. As a condition of your employment, you will be required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 and any subsequent amendments.

Following a conditional offer of employment, a background check (including a criminal records…