Assistant Professor of History and American Indian Studies

TITLE:

Assistant Professor of History and American Indian Studies DEPT:

Arts & Sciences; Arts & Humanities

REPORTS TO

Arts & Humanities Department Chair FLSA:

Exempt (Regular Rank, 9-Month Contract)

SALARY:

$59,588 -$83,525 (Commensurate with education and experience)

Position Summary:

Heritage University invites applications for an Assistant Professor of History and American Indian Studies to begin in August 2026. The successful candidate will teach 12 credit hours per semester, including a one-semester survey of American Indian history; topical courses in their area of expertise; the University's social-justice-themed first-year seminar; and both halves of the US history survey. We are particularly interested in candidates whose work intersects with Decolonial and Critical Indigenous Studies, with a focus on the American West. Successful candidates will have a demonstrated commitment to working with diverse student populations, promoting cultural safety and equity, and exhibiting innovative approaches to teaching, undergraduate research, and advising. PhD in History, Indigenous Studies (with a focus on North America), or related field is preferred, but ABD candidates are encouraged to apply. Heritage is a small, private, rural college located within the Yakama Nation, the largest Indian Reservation in the Pacific Northwest, and 20 miles south of the city of Yakima. Heritage is a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Native American-Serving, Non-Tribal Institution (NASNTI). As a mission-driven university with a culturally diverse student body, Heritage embraces "transformational student-centered education that cultivates leadership and a commitment to the promotion of a more just society." We strongly encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups as well as individuals who have demonstrated commitment to working collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students to build equitable and diverse scholarly environments. Candidates should demonstrate how they will contribute to Heritage University's mission and its dual emphasis on student empowerment and justice. The Heritage University History Department has adopted the AHA Tuning Project's 2016 History Discipline Core to guide its program assessment. The Center for Intercultural Learning & Teaching (CILT) supports faculty development in teaching and advising.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Represents Heritage University in the most positive manner with prospective, former, and current students, clients, suppliers and the community we serve. Interacts effectively with a diverse group of faculty, staff, students and other customers of our services, learn and use operating practices of the department and Heritage University. 2. Upholds the Heritage University Mission Statement. 3. Handles confidential information with tact, discretion and in compliance with FERPA regulations. 4. Teach undergraduate history courses as assigned. 5. Prepare course materials such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts. Teach undergraduate students on topics such as American Indian history, the US history survey, and other courses in their area of expertise. 6. Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers. 7. Collect and analyze data for program and university assessment. 8. Maintain student attendance records, grades, and other required records. 9. Compile, administer, and grade examinations. 10. Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions. 11. Advise students on academic and vocational curricula and on career issues. 12. Develop and use multimedia course materials and other current technology, such as online courses. 13. Perform administrative duties as needed. 14. Collaborate with colleagues to address teaching and research issues. 15. Participate in student recruitment, registration, and placement activities. 16. Willingness to seek external funding.

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:

• PhD in History, Indigenous Studies (with a focus on North America), or related field is preferred. ABD and/or education in related fields will be considered.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and oral and written communication skills.

Previous successful work experience with culturally diverse populations a plus.

Other Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist department chair with continual program development.
• Participate in unit meetings and other university-wide activities/committees.

Other duties as outlined in the Faculty Handbook.

BENEFIT PACKAGE

(benefit eligible is at least .75 FTE) :

• Health Benefits - medical, dental, and vision
• No cost life insurance.
• Paid Time Off
• 21 Paid Holidays
• Matching 403(k) Contribution after a year of service.
• Tuition Waiver Program- 6 month waiting period
• Additional plans are available for purchase. This includes AFLAC and additional life & ADD insurance.
• Many other employee engagement programs.

APPLICATION INFORMATION AND DEADLINE

: Priority consideration will be given to complete applications received by May 15, 2026. Review of complete applications, with items listed below will continue until the position is filled.

• Cover letter (please address all position qualifications - required and preferred)
• Vita/Resume
• Teaching Statement
• Diversity Statement
• Unofficial Transcripts
• Three (3) Reference Letters

HU Employment Application Link:

HU Application Qualified candidates may submit application material to: HumanResources@heritage.edu or Heritage University Office of Human Resources 3240 Fort Road Toppenish, WA 98948 Heritage University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action.