Western Michigan University

College College Of Fine Arts

Executive Area Provost & VP Academic Affairs

Department Richmond Institute for Design and Innovation

Posting Number F286P

Job Type Non-Tenure Track

Pay Type Exempt/Salaried

Pay Grade FS1

Campus Location WMU-Kalamazoo - Main Campus

Salary Range Pay is commensurate with qualifications and experience, combined with an excellent benefits package.

Number of Vacancies 1

General Summary

Western Michigan University invites applications for the position of Faculty Specialist 1 – Professional Specialist in the Richmond Institute for Design + Innovation (RID+I) in the College of Fine Arts. This is a 1-year (academic year) terminal position with the possibility of renewal contingent upon enrollment and adequate funding. The anticipated start date is fall 2026.

RID+I seeks a dynamic faculty member to teach courses in design foundations with a focus on problem-solving, visualization, and three-dimensional design thinking. This position emphasizes the exploration of spatial relationships, form, and craft through a variety of analog and digital media. The successful candidate will guide students in developing the ability to generate, analyze, and communicate design ideas with clarity and precision, preparing them for advanced coursework in design communication and studio practice.

Major Duties

• Teach courses within the professional curriculum, such as design studios, materials, lectures, seminars, multi-disciplinary courses, and workshops.
• Work with program coordinators and faculty team to maintain NASAD and CIDA accredited status.
• Support pedagogies in sustainability, applied technology and social-based design with the development of coursework.
• Assist in annual program events such as portfolio review, lecture series, design charettes and portfolio archiving.
• Hold office hours, maintain academic standards, and perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• A graduate degree from an accredited institution in architecture or design-related discipline (MFA, M.Arch, or equivalent), or international equivalent with a minimum of one studio-based degree from an accredited institution in a design discipline or architecture. Or, a studio-based Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in architecture or design-related discipline with at least 5 years of work experience.
• Demonstrated abilities and competencies in the following:
  • Knowledge of contemporary design theory and practice.
  • Proficiency in digital software.
  • Experience with online/hybrid teaching.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.
  • Ability to inspire and motivate students.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Collaborative and problem-solving skills.
  • Commitment to continuous learning.

Desired Qualifications

Special Instructions to Applicants

Required application documents:

• A current CV.
• A cover letter that directly addresses your experience(s) with the minimum qualifications and job duties.
• A list of 3 references (one of which must be your current or most recent supervisor).

Additional Position Information

The review of complete applications is in progress and will continue until the position is filled. To ensure full consideration, application materials should be received by January 10, 2026.

Go to https://wmich.edu/hr/employees/faculty for benefits and other information.