Professor Jobs in California
Professor jobs in California are concentrated in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, where the University of California system, California State University campuses, and Stanford University sustain steady demand for instructors at every level from lecturer to full professor. The most in-demand specialties are computer science, nursing and health sciences, and engineering, reflecting the state's technology and healthcare industries. California operates one of the most active academic hiring markets in the country, with openings across research universities, community colleges, and professional schools year-round. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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The School of Natural Sciences at University of California, Merced invites applications for one new faculty position at the Assistant Professor (tenure-track) level in the area of Applied Mathematics starting July 1, 2027. We are seeking exceptionally qualified candidates with expertise within a broad range of topics in applied mathematics. Special attention will be paid to applicants whose research interests lie in data science and/or quantum computing, and who has demonstrated excellence in research and teaching, and has strong interpersonal communication skills. Postdoctoral research and teaching experience are preferred.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
A Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics or a related scientific field is required.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Special attention will be paid to applicants whose research interests lie in data science and/or quantum computing, and who has demonstrated excellence in research and teaching, and has strong interpersonal communication skills.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Document requirements
- Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
- Cover Letter
- Statement of Research
- Authorization to Release Information Form - As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
"Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
Required Authorization of Information Release may be found at the linked page. Please complete, sign, and upload the required Authorization of Information Release to your application.
- Statement of Teaching
Reference requirements
- 4 letters of reference required
Four letters of references, one of which addresses teaching potential.
Help contact: elabra-garcia@ucmerced.edu
ABOUT UC MERCED
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
“Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
Please complete, sign, and upload the required Authorization of Information Release to your application: Required Authorization of Information Release Form.
Additional links: UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy, the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy, and APM 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment.
The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system’s 10 campuses. Ranked as one of the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report and recently designated as an R1 institution by Carnegie, UC Merced is committed to innovation and excellence in research. With over 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students (Center of Institutional Effectiveness), UC Merced provides outstanding, inclusive educational opportunities to highly qualified students from the heart of California, the nation, and abroad. The campus has special connections to nearby Yosemite National Park; is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design; and supports the economic development of Central California.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements. This includes the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs.
JOB LOCATION
Merced, CA
The School of Natural Sciences at University of California, Merced invites applications for one new faculty position at the Assistant Professor (tenure-track) level in the area of Applied Mathematics starting July 1, 2027. We are seeking exceptionally qualified candidates with expertise within a broad range of topics in applied mathematics. Special attention will be paid to applicants whose research interests lie in data science and/or quantum computing, and who has demonstrated excellence in research and teaching, and has strong interpersonal communication skills. Postdoctoral research and teaching experience are preferred.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
A Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics or a related scientific field is required.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Special attention will be paid to applicants whose research interests lie in data science and/or quantum computing, and who has demonstrated excellence in research and teaching, and has strong interpersonal communication skills.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Document requirements
- Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
- Cover Letter
- Statement of Research
- Authorization to Release Information Form - As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
"Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
Required Authorization of Information Release may be found at the linked page. Please complete, sign, and upload the required Authorization of Information Release to your application.
- Statement of Teaching
Reference requirements
- 4 letters of reference required
Four letters of references, one of which addresses teaching potential.
Help contact: elabra-garcia@ucmerced.edu
ABOUT UC MERCED
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
“Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
Please complete, sign, and upload the required Authorization of Information Release to your application: Required Authorization of Information Release Form.
Additional links: UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy, the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy, and APM 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment.
The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system’s 10 campuses. Ranked as one of the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report and recently designated as an R1 institution by Carnegie, UC Merced is committed to innovation and excellence in research. With over 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students (Center of Institutional Effectiveness), UC Merced provides outstanding, inclusive educational opportunities to highly qualified students from the heart of California, the nation, and abroad. The campus has special connections to nearby Yosemite National Park; is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design; and supports the economic development of Central California.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements. This includes the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs.
JOB LOCATION
Merced, CA
See All 317+ Professor Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Professor JobsProfessor Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Professor Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- University of Southern California40
- University of California Berkeley37
- UC San Diego27
- University of San Diego23
- California State University21
Top Industries Hiring
- Education17
- Non-Profit & Social Services4
- Science & Research1
- Technology & Software1
- Investment & Asset Management1
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in professor jobs across California.
- Earned doctorate or terminal degree in the relevant discipline from an accredited institution
- Prior teaching experience at the college or university level, including course design
- Active research agenda with a record of peer-reviewed publications or creative works
- Demonstrated commitment to California's diverse student populations and equity-minded pedagogy
- Familiarity with learning management systems such as Canvas, widely used across California campuses
- Ability to serve on department and college governance committees as required by California institutions
Professor Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a professor in California?
Becoming a professor in California typically requires earning a doctoral degree or the recognized terminal degree in your field from an accredited institution. Community college positions may accept a master's degree plus teaching experience. California does not require a state-issued teaching license for college-level faculty, but candidates applying to California State University or University of California campuses must meet each institution's faculty credentialing standards set by the campus Academic Senate.
Which companies hire professors in California?
Companies currently hiring professors in California include University of Southern California, University of California Berkeley, and UC San Diego, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. California's large public university systems, community college districts, and private research institutions collectively represent the broadest and most consistent source of faculty openings in the state.
Which California cities have the most professor jobs?
The cities with the most professor openings in California are Los Angeles, San Diego, and Berkeley. Los Angeles leads because it hosts multiple University of California and California State University campuses alongside dozens of private colleges, while San Francisco and San Diego benefit from major research universities, medical schools, and a dense concentration of professional and graduate programs tied to the technology and life sciences industries.
Are there remote professor jobs in California?
Yes, but they are less common than in purely desk-based fields, since laboratory instruction, clinical supervision, and in-person seminars remain central to many disciplines. About 44% of professor openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting growth in online programs. Fully remote roles are most common in general education, writing, and asynchronous online degree programs offered by California institutions.
How can I get hired as a professor in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is securing an adjunct or lecturer position at a California community college or Cal State campus, both of which regularly hire candidates with a master's degree and limited prior teaching. Serving as a teaching assistant or postdoctoral fellow at a University of California campus is the standard on-ramp for research-track roles. Building a portfolio of syllabi, student evaluations, and a clear research statement strengthens any application, and candidates from adjacent roles such as industry researcher, clinical practitioner, or curriculum specialist often transition successfully into instructional positions.
Where can I find and apply to professor jobs in California?
You can find and apply to professor jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings updated regularly. Search the listings, find the roles that match your discipline and experience level, and apply directly through the platform.
See All 317+ Professor Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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