Microbiology Instructor (Adjunct/Part-time)

Salary: $77.44 - $98.98 Hourly
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: 2223-00028
Closing: Continuous
Location: Rocklin, CA
Division: Instruction Office

Description


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!

Under administrative direction of an educational administrator, to develop curriculum for, provide lecture and laboratory instruction for and evaluate performance of students engaged in the study of microbiology and other related courses as directed, to maintain microbial cultures for use in classroom and laboratory experiments and activities, to participate in shared governance and other activities in support of the instructional program, and to do related work as required.

Need Help With Your Online Account?

• Use the online Help Guide or contact the NEOED Applicants Support Line at 855-524-5627 if you need assistance with your online applicant account.
• Applicant Support is available between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

If you have any questions about this position, please contact the Human Resources Department at hr@sierracollege.edu.

Examples Of Functions and Tasks


Curriculum Development ESSENTIAL: Review and evaluate curriculum to meet student interests and needs within the parameters of Divisional/Departmental budget constraints and availability of equipment and materials; coordinate with adjunct faculty instructors to enhance consistency of lecture/laboratory content; evaluate and/or revise course descriptions to fit curriculum designs; present recommendations 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. PERIPHERAL: Review and evaluate curriculum to meet changes in laws, regulations and standards.

Lecture/Laboratory ESSENTIAL: Complete book order forms and provide the District bookstore with master copies of syllabi for printing; Preparation coordinate with area bookstores and other suppliers to make necessary supplies available to students at reasonable prices; review study guides and other ancillary materials to determine potential for classroom and/or laboratory and/or field use; select textbooks and/or laboratory manuals determined to be the most useful and appropriate; select laboratory manuals and/or develop syllabi of laboratory exercises; place appropriate reference items on reserve in the library; prepare lesson plans to be used in a lecture and coordinate lectures with laboratory learning assignments; attend conferences to increase knowledge of subject matter and teaching methods and techniques; select locations for suitable microbiological investigation and instruction; coordinate with District Transportation Office and Business Office to arrange transportation and/or other amenities for off-campus field investigations; coordinate with contacts at visitation sites (research laboratories, hospitals, water treatment plants, etc.) to arrange clearances and details of field investigation activities; select and provide students with materials for use in field investigations; maintain living stock cultures of microorganisms used regularly in microbiology laboratory experiments and activities; prepare live cultures for use in specific laboratory protocols; recognize hazards associated with live bacterial and fungal microorganisms and practice aseptic techniques to prevent unnecessary exposure; coordinate with Instructional Assistant(s) to prepare solutions, reagents and media and to assist in maintenance of microbial specimens as needed (other than living-stock cultures, addressed above); prepare lists of laboratory materials needed and supply Instructional Assistant(s) with a materials listing and schedule of laboratory protocols; recognize responsibility to personally prepare reagents and media required on a last-minute basis; assemble laboratory materials, move equipment in and out of laboratories; determine whether laboratory equipment is functioning properly. PERIPHERAL: Review and evaluate new textbooks for content, readability, and cost effectiveness; read current literature (normally several sources- books, newspapers, periodicals, and other printed materials) to prepare lectures; review and select and/or prepare computer and audio-visual materials for classroom/laboratory use; prepare typewritten and/or graphic handouts and/or transparencies for classroom/laboratory use; coordinate with Instructional Assistant(s) 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 equipment currently available for use and which is appropriate for the subject area.

Laboratory Presentation ESSENTIAL: Introduce and present lecture/laboratory information and concepts in a clear and logical manner; use analogies and/or examples to convey important (microbiological concepts; provide instructional objectives to direct student learning; outline major points of information on board or overhead projector; enhance presentations with visual aids and/or demonstrations and/or examples, as available; demonstrate various scientific processes and proper use of pertinent equipment (for example: stain preparations, identify microorganisms with microscopes and/or other viewing equipment; carry out and explain recombinant DNA techniques, etc.); make modifications/substitutions to allow for completion of laboratory protocols and effective data collection; interpret and explain data collected and/or results of laboratory protocols; 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 discussions, providing equal opportunity for student participation; monitor student activity and take steps to prevent and/or control unacceptable behavior; design and develop new laboratory exercises to demonstrate major microbiological concepts; promote use of the scientific method in all laboratory protocols; help students to set up, operate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment; practice correct handling of laboratory specimens and solutions to maintain safety and environmental hazard prevention and abatement controls, including 'right-to-know' considerations; stay physically present in laboratory, to work with students; advise students of hazards associated with electrical equipment, live cultures, etc. PERIPHERAL: Clean up broken glassware in laboratory.

Student Performance Evaluation ESSENTIAL: Develop quizzes, tests, laboratory/classroom examinations and homework assignments which are understandable and which fairly evaluate student progress in acquiring knowledge of subject material; 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 homework, marking and grading accordingly; assign, read and evaluate homework assignments/projects to promote learning; tabulate scores and assign official grades; 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 Activities -ESSENTIAL: Attend and participate in weekly departmental staff meetings and periodic divisional and campus meetings and activities, including collaborative problem resolution (CPR) 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. PERIPHERAL: 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, and read shared governance body minutes, Board of Trustees reports, etc., to maintain knowledge of campus activities; read and respond to information polls distributed by the Faculty Senate and other shared governance bodies and those distributed in connection with peer and administrator performance reviews.

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. PERIPHERAL: Provide students with letters of recommendation, as requested; hold review sessions of classroom/laboratory material, as necessary; advise and encourage students relative to Biology Department curriculum, particularly with regard to the field of microbiology; participate in campus museum program series and/or other activities, and provide student opportunities for participation in extracurricular field trips and/or club activities.

Minimum Qualifications


CCC Minimum Qualifications Handbook

Degrees/Experience: ESSENTIAL:

Master's degree in any biological science

OR

Bachelor's degree in any biological science

AND

Master's degree in biochemistry, biophysics, marine science

OR

the equivalent.

Knowledge of: ESSENTIAL: Microbiology and related fields, such as morphology, physiology and genetics; laboratory specimen preparation procedures, including staining procedures for preparation of slides for viewing under a microscope and recombinant DNA preparation and preservation techniques; operation of laboratory equipment utilized to record microbiological phenomena; computer operation, particularly word processing applications; scientific methodology; teaching practices, methods, and techniques; laboratory equipment calibration procedures; laboratory hazards and appropriate safety protocols, including 'right-to-know' hazard communication requirements and equipment safety standards; aseptic techniques for proper handling of biohazardous organisms.

Ability to: ESSENTIAL: Lecture in front of large groups of students; recognize variation in student backgrounds, abilities, and learning styles; be patient with students; maintain integrity, honesty, reliability, and cooperation; explain microbiological concepts and processes in a logical, sequential fashion; operate, troubleshoot, test, and calibrate laboratory equipment; prepare laboratory equipment, materials, and specimens; provide students with a 'hands on' learning experience in a laboratory setting; correctly interpret microbiological data and draw accurate conclusions; form and maintain effective working relationships with peers, staff, and students; work independently to solve problems and/or participate in collaborative problem resolution activities. PERIPHERAL: Operate a computer (including word processing software).

Physical Suitability Requirements: ESSENTIAL: Incumbent must be able to work indoors in work primarily of a sedentary to moderately active nature or outdoors to accomplish field investigations in work primarily of an active nature, and to perform the following, with or without reasonable accommodation: Almost constantly: Utilize vision (near) to read computer screens and printed materials, operate equipment and to observe microbiological phenomena through a microscope and/or other close-range viewing equipment; utilize hearing for ordinary conversation, telephone calls, and to respond to student questions in the classroom, laboratory and field environments. Frequently: Work in areas subject to exposure to pathogenic micro-organisms, chemicals, and flame and heat producing equipment such as Bunsen burners and autoclaves; utilize vision (far) to observe student performance, microbiological phenomena and equipment operation in laboratory and field environments; stand, sit, walk and turn to deliver lectures, other instruction, or instructional materials; reach overhead and low to operate equipment and prepare laboratory materials; utilize manual and finger dexterity to operate computers and other equipment and to prepare laboratory materials (including complex specimens); work in areas subject to exposure to risk of cuts and sticks from glassware and other sharps and risk of contact with bloodborne and/or other pathogens. Occasionally: Lift, push, pull, stoop, squat, bend and carry to move and operate equipment and prepare laboratory materials; wear protective equipment to protect face, eyes, arms, hands and fingers; work in areas subject to dust, mists, fumes, chemicals, caustics, and allergenic plants/materials.

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.

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.

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.

Companies that provide transcript evaluation services:

• World Education Services
• Educational Credential Evaluators

Supplemental Information

WHY SIERRA?

• One of Aspen Institute's Top 150 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 17,000 students throughout the region in both on-ground and online courses, including students at our main Rocklin Campus as well as at three centers located in Grass Valley, Tahoe/Truckee, and Roseville. 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 17,800 students per term, where approximately: 23% of Sierra College's students are Latin(o)(a)(x)(e), 3% are African-American/Black, 2% are Filipino, 6% are Asian, 1% are American Indian/Alaskan Native, 8% are Multiethnic and 55% are White.

The successful candidate will join a College dedicated to the use of culturally responsive teaching strategies and methods that meet the varying needs of our students and ensure a successful learning environment. Sierra College demonstrates its commitment to equity by supporting ongoing professional development for students, faculty, and staff. These opportunities include trainings and workshops on equity and inclusion, a Faculty Equity and Inclusion Certificate series, active Academic Senate standing committees concerned with student success and equity, a Presidential Equity Advisory Committee (PEAC), culturally responsive student engagement centers, support for our undocumented and AB540 students, campus-wide equity summits, a robust set of programs, events, and conferences related to equity-mindedness and supporting the success of our diverse students.

COMPENSATION
Placement on the District's Faculty Salary Schedule is dependent upon years of experience and level of education. Entry-level is from $77.44 per hour (Lecture Rate)/$58.08 per hour (Lab/Counselor Rate) to $98.98 per hour (Lecture Rate)/$74.24 per hour (Lab/Counselor Rate) at the time of employment. The current highest salary attainable after employment is $127.21 per hour (Lecture Rate)/$95.41 per hour (Lab/Counselor 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.


Need Help With Your Online Account?

• Use the online Help Guide or contact the NEOED Applicants Support Line at 855-524-5627 if you need assistance with your online applicant account.
• Applicant Support is available between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

If you have any questions about this position, please contact the Human Resources Department at hr@sierracollege.edu.


REQUIRED APPLICATION DOCUMENTS
There are four (4) required documents to apply for this position:

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, Roseville, 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 (916) 660-7006 or via email at EEOT9@sierracollege.edu.

Persons with questions regarding reasonable accommodation of physical and other disabilities should contact the Sierra College Human Resources Department at (916) 660-7105.

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
English 1-800-735-2929
Spanish 1-800-855-3000

Voice to TTY/VCO/HCO
English 1-800-735-2922
Spanish 1-800-855-3000

From or to Speech-to- Speech
English & Spanish 1-800-854-7784



To apply, visit https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/sierracollege/jobs/3819619/microbiology-instructor-adjunct-part-time






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