What are the responsibilities and job description for the Visiting Instructor or Assistant Teaching Professor position at The University of Southern Mississippi?
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job Summary
The Visiting Instructor or Assistant Teaching Professor (if holding a doctoral degree) for Hydrographic Science is a full-time, 12-month faculty position within The Division of Marine Science in the School of Ocean Science and Engineering at The University of Southern Mississippi. This position primarily serves the undergraduate program in Oceanography and Ocean Mapping at the Gulf Park campus and also supports the graduate program in Hydrographic Science at Stennis Space Center. The position is intended to begin in the Fall 2026 semester.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver undergraduate and graduate courses in hydrography in accordance with International Hydrographic Office (IHO) / International Board on Standards of Competence for Hydrographic Surveyors and Nautical Cartographers (IBSC) standards.
- Design and implement practical exercises and field-based instruction, including activities requiring boat and truck operation.
- Provide academic advising and student support for students in the B.S. in Oceanography and Ocean Mapping program.
- Assist with outreach and student recruitment activities.
- Collaborate with the Hydrographic Science Program Coordinator to support IBSC recognition and execution of the program’s strategic plan.
- Liaise with career services to support student industry engagement and post-graduation outcomes.
Minimum Qualifications
Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in hydrography, oceanography, or a related field. Two (2) years of hydrographic surveying experience. Must have a valid U.S. driver’s license, Mississippi or U.S. Coast Guard boat license, and be able to pass a NASA background check.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Ability to work effectively and collegially with students, staff, and faculty from all backgrounds, programs, and colleges.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Skill sets associated with the use and application of common equipment and instrumentation in Hydrographic Science.
- Strong work ethic, striving for continuous improvement and achievement of high standards.
- Commitment to promoting and fostering an inclusive learning environment for all students.
Preferred Qualifications
Doctoral degree from an accredited university of college in hydrography, oceanography, or a related field. Five (5) years of more hydrographic surveying experience. Two (2) years or more of experience in developing curricula and delivering courses at the college level. Two (2) years of mentoring experience. Two (2) years of non-academic experience in industry, non-profit, or government.
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.