• Assistant Professor, Special Education

    University of Southern Mississippi (Hattiesburg, MS)


    Assistant Professor, Special Education

     

    The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant Professor, Special Education.

    Position Details

    Location Hattiesburg

     

    118 College Drive

     

    Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

     

    United States

     

    Division School of Education

     

    Position Type Faculty

     

    Employment Status Full Time

     

    Grant Funded Yes

     

    Pay Grade

     

    Generic Grade

     

    Posting Close Date July 31, 2026

    Special Instructions to Applicants

    Review of applications will begin September 15, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled. Inquiries about the position can be directed to Dr. Jay Howell ([email protected]) .A completed application will include 1) a cover letter describing applicant strengths and qualifications for the position, 2) a CV, 3) the names and contact information of three individuals who can provide a recommendation, and 4) academic transcripts (official transcripts are preferred and are necessary for hire). Application materials can be uploaded to the HR site found here: https://jobs.usm.edu.

     

    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 School of Education at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) invites applicants for one tenure track Assistant Professor position beginning in August 2026 with requirements to be physically present on the Hattiesburg campus. The Education faculty currently provide training to candidates in Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education. We are especially interested in candidates whose experience includes bridging research and practice in K-12 special education settings, with expertise in literacy and/or mathematics, assessment, and clinical supervision. We seek a colleague who is committed to preparing high-quality special education professionals, advancing inclusive practices, and contributing to program growth and innovation. Program delivery includes face-to-face, online, and hybrid formats.

     

    Primary Duties and Responsibilities

     

    + Teaching graduate-level courses in special education.

    + Advising and mentoring students.

    + Engaging in a productive research agenda.

    + Providing service to the program, school, university, and profession.

    + Collaborating with faculty colleagues on program development and improvement.

    + Taking on opportunities for leadership in shaping the direction of the special education program.

    + Performing other duties as assigned.

    Minimum Qualifications

    The ideal candidate for this position will have:

    Doctoral degree in Special Education or closely related field (by August 2026).

     

    Two (2) or more years of full-time teaching experience with standards-based curriculum within special education settings.

     

    Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

     

    + Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate with all groups of individuals in a timely manner.

    + Ability to work with all teams in multiple settings.

    + Experience with online learning platforms.

    + Experience setting clear performance expectations and provision of meaningful feedback.

    Preferred Qualifications

    University teaching experience.

     

    Experience in graduate program development, accreditation processes, or innovative program design.

     

    Record of external funding or potential to secure funding.

     

    Experience with alternative pathways or flexible models of educator preparation.

     

    Experience working with schools, agencies, or community partners that support students with disabilities.

     

    Potential for leadership in program development and coordination.

    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.