Earth Science (Adjunct/Part-time)

In order to create a pool of qualified applicants, Sierra College accepts applications in all subject areas and conducts interviews for teaching positions throughout the year. Applications are kept in the hiring pool for a period of two years. The number of open positions varies from semester to semester. The Division Dean or Department Chair will contact you directly for an interview when a position becomes available. We appreciate your interest in Sierra College!

Curriculum Development

ESSENTIAL: Review and evaluate curriculum in order to meet student interests and needs within the parameters of Divisional and/or Departmental budget constraints, availability of equipment and materials, changes in laws, regulations and standards, and the needs of industry and society; coordinate with adjunct faculty instructors to enhance consistency of lecture and laboratory content; evaluate and/or revise course descriptions to fit curriculum designs; present proposals for curriculum changes to the Curriculum Committee and/or other appropriate shared governance bodies; make changes to curriculum as necessary and as approved within the shared governance structure.

Lecture/ Laboratory/ Field Preparation

ESSENTIAL: Review and evaluate new textbooks for content, readability, and cost effectiveness; select textbooks and/or laboratory and field manuals determined to be the most useful and appropriate; complete book order forms and provide the District bookstore with master copies of syllabi for printing; place appropriate reference items on reserve in the library; prepare lesson plans to be used in a lecture and/or coordinate lectures with laboratory learning assignments; prepare lists of laboratory materials needed and supply Instructional Assistants with a materials listing and schedule of laboratory protocols; determine whether laboratory electrical equipment is functioning properly; coordinate with Instructional Assistants and/or student help to: assemble laboratory materials and move equipment in and out of laboratories, acquire and maintain materials as needed, select and prepare materials for use in the classroom and/or laboratory and/or in the field (e.g., rocks, mineral and fossil samples, maps, magnifiers, goniometers, rulers, hardness kits, acids, etc.), properly label specimens and materials, prepare solutions, chemicals, and other media, check availability and operation of equipment needed, particularly saws, polishers, microscopes, Geiger counters and compasses, clean, calibrate and check equipment and return items and equipment to proper storage areas after classroom, laboratory and field use; practice proper techniques for handling of hazardous materials, and recognize hazards associated with some materials (e.g., poisonous chemicals/compounds, bacteria, radioactivity, etc.); check materials and equipment setups before each laboratory and/or field session to determine suitability for use; select specific "real world" site locations suitable for geological, geographic and paleontological investigation and instruction; arrange transportation for off-campus field trips (e.g., bus, van, boat, etc.); plan routes to be followed on extended field trips and make necessary arrangements for overnight accommodations (e.g., camp site or other lodging, meals, etc.); acquire wilderness permits, as necessary, and otherwise make arrangements for site authorizations at paleontological digs, mines, National Parks, etc., to facilitate extended on-site learning; maintain and/or coordinate with Instructional Assistants and/or student help to acquire and maintain equipment needed for field trips (e.g., citizens-band radios and antennas, van rack nets, tool boxes, first-aid kits, ice chests, water containers, etc.); select and provide students with materials used in field investigation (e.g., maps, magnifiers, goniometers, rulers, hardness kits, etc.); make arrangements for payment of various fees, as necessary (e.g., camp site, museum and boat fees, etc.); attend and/or host classes, workshops, conferences and symposiums to increase and/or update knowledge of subject matter and teaching methods and techniques; read current literature (normally several sources- books, newspapers, periodicals, and other printed materials) to prepare lectures; prepare, edit, and update syllabus materials for lectures and/or laboratories; review and select and/or prepare computer and audio-visual materials for classroom, laboratory or field use; prepare typewritten and/or graphic handouts and/or transparencies for classroom, laboratory or field use; take slides of geological/geographical features and phenomena for use in instructing students in earth science topics; assemble slide programs comprised of slides taken personally at sites as well as those purchased from vendors; as authorized, purchase, collect, prepare and curate rocks, minerals, fossils, maps and globes to be used in classroom, laboratory and field instruction; procure materials for, create and build appropriate displays and models for the District museum to illustrate various aspects of geology, geography, paleontology and other earth science topics and disciplines and to promote laboratory and incidental learning; perform paleontological field work, as appropriate. PERIPHERAL: Coordinate and confer with book publishing company sales representatives providing instructional materials; coordinate with Instructional Assistants to train and direct student help to assist in laboratory preparation and clean-up chores; experiment with changes in laboratory protocols and/or equipment which will improve instruction; familiarize self with operation of all equipment currently available for use and which is appropriate for the subject area, including computers and pertinent software applications; collect rock, mineral and fossil specimens and perform taxonomic research at other institutions, as authorized and directed; interact with other teaching professionals to update and improve teaching skills.

Lecture/ Laboratory/ Field Presentation

ESSENTIAL: Introduce and present lecture/laboratory/field information and concepts in a clear and logical manner; use analogies and/or examples to convey important geological, geographical, or paleontological concepts; provide instructional objectives to direct student learning; outline major points of information on board, overhead projector, slide and film projectors, videotapes, maps, globes, or rock, mineral or fossil samples; enhance presentations with visual aids and/or demonstrations and/or examples, as available; prepare and distribute handouts to clarify particularly difficult topics; answer student questions clearly and without ridicule, improper criticism or bias; encourage student participation and involvement in classroom, laboratory and field discussions; provide equal opportunity for student participation; monitor student activity and take steps to prevent and/or control unacceptable behavior and maintain an adult classroom atmosphere; design and develop new classroom/laboratory/field exercises to demonstrate major geological, geographical or paleontological concepts; promote use of the scientific method in all laboratory protocols; demonstrate laboratory/field techniques and safe operation of equipment; perform and/or help students to perform set up, operation, and troubleshooting of laboratory/field material and equipment problems and monitor laboratory/field activities, assisting as necessary; troubleshoot equipment set-up and operation and make modifications and/or substitutions to allow completion of protocols and collection of data; identify and discuss characteristics of rock, mineral and fossil specimens and materials in the classroom, laboratory and field; identify features, characteristics and structures as viewed through a microscope; interpret and explain geological, geographical or paleontological data being collected, and acknowledge and explain variations; move around in the laboratory and in the field, working with students; stay physically present in the laboratory and in the field, to supervise activities; demonstrate safe laboratory and field techniques and safe operation of equipment; advise students of hazards associated with electrical equipment, chemicals, etc. PERIPHERAL: Deliver lectures to District or external groups and organizations on earth science topics, as requested and authorized; may lead club field trips and/or function as club faculty advisor, as feasible.

Student Performance Evaluation

ESSENTIAL: Develop quizzes, tests and laboratory/classroom examinations which are understandable, which fairly evaluate student progress, and which inspire effort towards progress and success; monitor student activity during examinations/quizzes and take steps to prevent and/or control unacceptable behavior, e.g., cheating; deal swiftly, rationally, and consistently with persons involved in cheating and/or other unacceptable behavior; read and evaluate student responses on examinations/quizzes, and mark and grade papers accordingly; assign, read and evaluate homework assignments/projects to promote learning; tabulate scores and assign official grades; record scores and student attendance on appropriate forms, as required; advise students on academic matters regarding their performance; refer students to appropriate student services (for example, ESL, EOPS, etc.) PERIPHERAL: Input student scores into a computer (including word processing software), and make printouts of scoring data available to affected students.

Shared Governance Participation

ESSENTIAL: Attend and participate in departmental meetings and activities; respond in writing to requests for information (for example, employment process position questionnaires, unit planning guides, environmental impact reports, etc.); participate in articulation/curriculum development, investigation and costing of departmental equipment needs and selection of textbooks; represent department by serving on campus-wide committees; provide input regarding capital outlay and supply budgetary items and assist in purchasing processes to procure equipment and supplies, as required; assist in supervising Instructional Assistants, part-time instructors, and student and other temporary help. PERIPHERAL: Attend and participate in divisional and/or building meetings and activities, as well as those organized by the Faculty Senate and the Staff Development Committee; serve on employee selection committees, as requested; serve as a functional member of one or more committees and/or task forces; attend Board of Trustees and/or College Council Meetings, as necessary; respond to information polls distributed by the Faculty Senate.

Ancillary Student Services

ESSENTIAL: Hold regular office hours; provide advice to students regarding academic performance; provide students and peers with a positive role model in terms of character and citizenship; participate in graduation and outstanding student award ceremonies; participate in and/or coordinate with the Natural History Museum Committee and other museum-related activities; review and/or provide input for environmental impact report (EIR) documentation, as requested. PERIPHERAL: Provide students with letters of recommendation, as requested; hold review sessions of classroom/laboratory material, as necessary; advise and encourage students relative to Earth Science Department curriculum; provide opportunities for participation in field trips and/or club activities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s in geology, geophysics, earth sciences, meteorology, oceanography or paleontology
• Bachelor’s in geology
• Master’s in geography, physics, or geochemistry
• the equivalent

This position is a part-time faculty teaching assignment with the following salary rates: Part-Time/Adjunct Salary Schedule (Degree and years of acceptable teaching experience determine step placement)

Offer and acceptance of employment is subject to verification of all information provided on the employment application, credentials, transcripts, LiveScan, and tuberculosis examination as required. Verification of prior employment (teaching or work experience) may be needed to determine minimum qualifications met.

Copies of transcripts MUST be attached to the application (photocopies & unofficial transcripts are accepted).

EQUIVALENCY INFORMATION

Did you know that you can also determine if you meet the minimum qualifications by going through an equivalency process? The equivalency process helps determine if coursework taken and/or professional experience meets the minimum education and/or experience requirements.

If claiming equivalency, please attach the Request for Equivalency Hearing form. The equivalency form may be found at: Sierra College Human Resources.

FOREIGN TRANSCRIPT INFORMATION

Individuals who have completed college or university course work at an institution in a country other than the United States must obtain a complete evaluation of foreign transcripts, degrees and other relevant documents. A foreign transcript evaluation is required any time foreign course work is used to meet minimum qualifications and/or salary placement even if the foreign transcript has been accepted by a college or university in the United States.

Transcript Evaluation Services

• World Education Services
• Educational Credential Evaluators

Why Sierra?

• One of Aspen Institute’s Top150 Community Colleges in the nation
• The Accrediting Commission recognized Sierra "for its exemplary practice of providing personnel with opportunities for continued professional development in order to meet its mission." This includes providing students and employees with a robust set of programs, events, and conferences related to equity-mindedness and supporting the success of our students, etc.
• Sierra has a commitment to culturally-responsive strategies and methods, and therefore all newly hired faculty participate in a Faculty Equity and Inclusion Certificate
• State Teachers Retirement System (STRS)
• Qualifying Employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (in most cases)

Sierra College is a Community College located near Sacramento, California where a heavy emphasis is placed on academic excellence and student success. Since its founding in 1936, Sierra College has focused on quality instruction and meeting the evolving needs of the students and communities that it serves. The Sierra Community College District covers more than 3,200 square miles and serves the Northern California foothill counties of Placer and Nevada, as well as parts of El Dorado and Sacramento. We serve over 30,000 students throughout the region in both on-ground and online courses, including students at our main Rocklin Campus as well as at two centers located in Grass Valley and Tahoe/Truckee. Our District prides itself on academic excellence.

Sierra College has a strong commitment to the achievement of equity and inclusion among its faculty, staff, and students and values the rich, diverse backgrounds that make up the campus community. A strong candidate for this position must demonstrate a profound understanding of and experience with successfully supporting individuals with varying backgrounds. This includes persons with disabilities, various gender identities and sexual orientations, as well as individuals from historically underrepresented communities and other groups. Our District is committed to providing strategies for success and proactive student-centered practices and policies focused on eliminating equity gaps to ensure the District provides an inclusive educational and employment environment focused on strategies for success and equitable outcomes for all.

As an institution, Sierra College is committed to eliminating the equity gap in all student populations with dynamic, learner-centered practices and policies that fully engage the college community. The ideal candidate will share the College’s commitment to helping its racially and socioeconomically diverse students succeed in their degree and career objectives. Currently, Sierra College enrolls 30,000 students per term, where approximately: 21.8% of Sierra College’s students are Latin(o)(a)(x)(e), 3.2% are African-American/Black, 2.4% are Filipino, 7.8% are Asian, 0.5% are American Indian/Alaskan Native, 7.8% are Multiethnic and 53.8% are White.

Compensation

Placement on the District’s Faculty Salary Schedule is dependent upon years of experience and level of education. Entry-level is from $83.45 per hour (Lecture Rate)/$62.59 per hour (Lab/Counselor/Library/Tutor Coordinator Rate) to $106.66 per hour (Lecture Rate)/$80.00 per hour (Lab/Counselor/Library/Tutor Coordinator Rate at the time of employment. The current highest salary attainable after employment is $139.82 per hour (Lecture Rate)/$104.87 per hour (Lab/Counselor/Library/Tutor Coordinator Rate). Employees also will be members of the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS). Sick leave, and other leaves are available according to the provisions of the collective bargaining agreement.

Required Application Documents

1. Employment Application
2. Resume or Curriculum Vitae
3. Applicable transcripts with conferred degree and date (unofficial transcripts are accepted)
4. Please respond to the prompt below for your Teaching Philosophy Statement. You will need to write this statement on a separate document and upload the attachment at the end of the application.
   • What do you feel are the best strategies for supporting historically underrepresented and underserved students? Specifically, what are the key factors that contribute to their success and the closing of equity gaps in the classroom, particularly for African‑American, Latin(o)(a)(x)(e), and Native American students with intersecting identities, such as LGBTQIA+, visible and invisible disabilities, and any other disproportionately impacted populations?
   • What role should faculty play in student success?
   • Describe how your teaching approach has changed/evolved since you began teaching. Provide examples of what motivated the change(s).
   • How does your teaching approach reflect your teaching philosophy in ensuring equitable student success?

Helpful Tip: Please note that as described above a strong candidate for this position must demonstrate a profound understanding of and experience with successfully supporting individuals with varying backgrounds; and therefore, hiring committees assess candidates for these knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Applicants may want to consider incorporating culturally-inclusive/equity-minded strategies practiced and/or evidence of the responsiveness to and understanding of the racial, socioeconomic, and cultural diversity of community college student populations throughout their application materials (including application and documents uploaded, if any). Please see the Sierra College website for additional helpful tips and tools for prospective applicants.

Terms and Conditions of Employment

Other terms and conditions of employment are specified in the applicable collective bargaining agreements on file in the District Human Resources Department. Position description of record on file in the Human Resources Department.

*Sierra Community College District currently operates campuses in Rocklin, Truckee and Grass Valley. In its management of a multi-campus environment, the District reserves right of assignment including the right to change assignment locations and shift assignments based on District need. Although this position may currently reside at the Rocklin campus, the assignment location may be subject to change as needed. Additionally, the district reserves the right to cancel, revise or re-announce this position as well as any and all positions at any time.

EEO / TITLE IX EMPLOYER

Sierra College is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to nondiscrimination and the achievement of diversity and equity among its faculty, staff, and students.

Persons with inquiries about the application of Title IX and/or EEO may contact the Director of Diversity, EEO & Title IX (Title IX Coordinator) at the address below, at View phone number on click.appcast.io or via email at View email address on click.appcast.io.

Persons with questions regarding reasonable accommodation of physical and other disabilities should contact the Sierra College Human Resources Department at View phone number on click.appcast.io.

If you have limitations hearing or speaking, the State of California offers a specially-trained Communications Assistant (CA) that can relay telephone conversations for all of your calls. Dial 711 to reach the California Relay Service (CRS). Dialing 711 is for everyone, not just those who have difficulty hearing on a standard phone. If you prefer having your calls immediately answered in your mode of communication, dial one of the toll-free modality and language‑specific numbers below. The call will be routed to the CRS provider.

TTY/VCO/HCO to Voice

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Voice to TTY/VCO/HCO

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From or to Speech‑to‑ Speech

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