What are the responsibilities and job description for the School of Computing Professional Practice Assistant Professor position at Utah State University and Careers?
USU’s School of Computing is expanding to meet strong student demand and new opportunities in Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning and Software Engineering, while continuing to strengthen its long-standing Computer Science program. Professional Practice Faculty are dedicated teaching faculty who focus on high-quality instruction, mentorship, and curricular innovation that connect academic learning with real-world application.
We seek candidates who combine technical expertise with a passion for teaching and mentoring. Applicants with significant industry experience who can bridge theory and practice and prepare students for success in modern computing careers are especially encouraged to apply.
Areas of Interest
We welcome applicants with strong academic or professional backgrounds in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related computing disciplines. The School has particular needs in:
- Software Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Candidates with industry experience—especially those who have led software development or AI-driven projects—are highly encouraged to apply. The School seeks faculty who are enthusiastic about teaching, mentoring, and helping students apply computing skills to real-world challenges.
Responsibilities include:
- Teaching undergraduate courses in face-to-face, broadcast, online, or blended formats.
- Developing and updating course materials that reflect current technologies and practices in computing.
- Mentoring and advising students, supporting their academic and professional development.
- Contributing to program and course development, particularly in AI, software engineering, and core computer science.
- Participating in departmental service and outreach to strengthen the School’s connection with industry and community partners.
- M.S. in Computer Science or a closely related discipline
- Ability to serve as a mentor, advisor, and role model to students
- Ability to work productively and cooperatively with colleagues
- Excellent oral, written, and problem-solving skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Computer Science or a closely related discipline
- Extensive industry experience in software development
- Successful prior teaching experience
- Successful prior online or distance education experience
- Experience with different learning technologies
- Resume/CV to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV".
- Names and contact information of three professional references as part of your Candidate Profile (reference letters will only be solicited from final candidates).
- Cover letter summarizing your motivation, qualifications, experience, and career goals.
- A brief teaching statement that explains your approach to teaching and describes AI/ML courses you would like to develop and existing Computer Science/Computer Engineering courses you would like to teach.
Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact.
USU enrolls over 29,800 students, both online and in person at locations throughout the state. Utah State’s 30 locations include a main campus in Logan, Utah, residential campuses in Price and Blanding, and six additional statewide campuses, along with education centers serving every county. USU educates students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries. For over 100 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns, serving every county in the state.
Competing at the NCAA Division I level, USU is a proud member of the Mountain West Conference and will join the Pac-12 Conference beginning in the 2026-2027 season. The Aggies’ long-standing tradition of athletic and academic excellence is exemplified by recent Mountain West regular-season and tournament championships in women’s volleyball, three consecutive Mountain West tournament titles in women’s soccer conference championships, and a first-ever conference championship for gymnastics, reflecting USU's commitment to perseverance and achievement.
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updated 12/2025
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updated 10/2025