Social Studies Department Chair Jobs
Social Studies Department Chair jobs are open across K-12 public schools, private academies, and charter networks, from lead teacher to district-level administrator, with specializations in curriculum development, instructional coaching, and state standards alignment. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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DEPARTMENT/ADMINISTRATION: College of Arts & Science
POSITION: Yuhaaviatam Endowed Chair of Native American Studies
Appointment: Faculty
SALARY RANGE: $77,674 - $86,678
HIRING RANGE: Anticipated hiring range is near or at the minimum of the classification, commensurate with candidate's education, experience, skills, and training.
AVAILABLE: August 24th, 2027
POSTING DATE: November 11th, 2026
APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 4, 2027
Definition of Classification:
The University of Redlands invites applications for the Yuhaaviatam Endowed Chair of Native American Studies, a tenure-track Assistant Professor (appointment as Associate Professor is possible, based on qualifications) position housed within the Department of Race and Ethnic Studies. We seek an accomplished scholar or scholar-practitioner whose teaching, research, and community engagement advance Native American Tribes and communities through applied, interdisciplinary, and community-centered approaches. We welcome candidates whose expertise enhances interdisciplinary collaboration in areas such as public policy, Tribal governance, political science, health, education, environmental studies, economic development, business, and related fields.
The Endowed Chair will expand the Native American Studies curriculum through innovative, interdisciplinary courses that prepare students to become leaders and changemakers in Tribal Nations and Indigenous communities. They will serve as a visible academic and community leader, cultivating relationships with Tribal Nations, Tribal organizations, community partners, and alumni. The Chair also will play an important role in supporting Native American student recruitment, retention, mentorship, leadership development, and career readiness.
The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to translating academic learning into meaningful career pathways that advance Tribal Nations and Native American communities by building opportunities for experiential learning, community-engaged scholarship and internships. Strong consideration will be given to candidates with demonstrated experience working collaboratively with Tribal Nations and Native American organizations in Southern California. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to build meaningful partnerships that are responsive to the needs and interests of Tribal Nations and Native American communities. The University recognizes that candidates may demonstrate excellence across these areas through different combinations of scholarship, professional practice, Tribal leadership, teaching, and community engagement.
About the University:
The University of Redlands is an independent, regional, comprehensive university with strong roots in liberal arts education. The University of Redlands is committed to providing students with transformative experiential learning opportunities through its Core Four (https://www.redlands.edu/academics/colleges-and-schools/college-of-arts-and-sciences/corefour) initiative: undergraduate research, community service learning, internships, and study away. We are a Hispanic Serving Institution, with 40% of our student body composed of first-generation students and a strong Native Student Program which supports a growing number of Native American students and collaborates with the endowed chair to create programming on campus.
We actively encourage applications from women and under-represented groups, especially Native Americans.
Required Qualifications:
A Ph.D. or J.D. (or near completion of degree) is required at the time of appointment. If the Ph.D. is not complete at the time of appointment, the appointed candidate may begin at the rank of instructor and convert to assistant professor upon completion of the degree within a reasonable and agreed-upon period of time. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working with Tribal Nations, particularly in Southern California.
- Success mentoring and supporting Native American and Indigenous students.
- Experience developing interdisciplinary, experiential curricula that connect academic learning with Tribal priorities, community engagement, and diverse professional pathways.
- Evidence of community-engaged scholarship, professional practice, or leadership benefiting Indigenous communities.
- Ability to develop partnerships that create research, internship, and career opportunities for students.
- Community-engaged research or professional experience in Tribal governance, public policy, education, healthcare, economic development, environmental stewardship, cultural resource management, or related fields.
Application Process/ To Apply:
Applicants must upload the following documents to their candidate profile before submitting their application. All application materials must be submitted no later than January 4, 2027:
- letter of application
- CV.
- two-page statement of teaching philosophy that includes a description of their approach to teaching students with diverse educational and socioeconomic backgrounds
- one letter of recommendation addressing the candidate’s record of engagement with Native American communities
Those seeking additional information regarding the position should contact Jennifer Tilton, Chair, at jennifer_tilton@redlands.edu (mailto:jennifer_tilton@redlands.edu).
In compliance with The Americans with Disabilities Act, if selected for the interview process and accommodations are needed, please call (909) 748-8040. If you are unable to complete an application due to a disability, contact us at (909) 748-8040 to ask for accommodation or an alternative application process.
Physical Requirements/Working Conditions:
Working Conditions:
Standard office setting. Duties performed are primarily in an office environment while sitting at a desk or computer workstation or in meetings. At least minimal environmental controls to assure health and comfort. This position requires flexibility to work evening and weekend hours as well as the ability to travel, as required.
Physical Demands:
Incumbents regularly sit for long periods; walk short distances on a regular basis; may travel to various locations to attend meetings and conduct work; use hands and fingers to operate an electronic keyboard or other office machines; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; stoop or kneel or crouch to file; speak clearly and distinctly to answer telephones and to provide information; see to read fine print and operate computer; hear and understand voices over telephone and in person; and lift, carry and/or move objects weighing up to 20 pounds.
BACKGROUND CHECK: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check. Offers are conditional and may be rescinded if disqualifying information is found or if information was withheld or falsified. Current employees may be affected if the check is not satisfactorily completed.
DRIVER’S LICENSE: Certain positions require a valid driver’s license and enrollment in the DMV Government Employer Pull Notice Program to verify license status and driving record.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT
Human Resources (redlands.edu) (https://www.redlands.edu/offices-directory/offices/human-resources)
SUBMISSION OF A RESUME OR APPLICATION INDICATES AGREEMENT THAT THE UNIVERSITY MAY VERIFY ANY AND ALL INFORMATION CONTAINED THEREIN.
MEMBERS OF UNDERREPRESENTED GROUPS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Education
Required- Doctorate or better
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) or better
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
DEPARTMENT/ADMINISTRATION: College of Arts & Science
POSITION: Yuhaaviatam Endowed Chair of Native American Studies
Appointment: Faculty
SALARY RANGE: $77,674 - $86,678
HIRING RANGE: Anticipated hiring range is near or at the minimum of the classification, commensurate with candidate's education, experience, skills, and training.
AVAILABLE: August 24th, 2027
POSTING DATE: November 11th, 2026
APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 4, 2027
Definition of Classification:
The University of Redlands invites applications for the Yuhaaviatam Endowed Chair of Native American Studies, a tenure-track Assistant Professor (appointment as Associate Professor is possible, based on qualifications) position housed within the Department of Race and Ethnic Studies. We seek an accomplished scholar or scholar-practitioner whose teaching, research, and community engagement advance Native American Tribes and communities through applied, interdisciplinary, and community-centered approaches. We welcome candidates whose expertise enhances interdisciplinary collaboration in areas such as public policy, Tribal governance, political science, health, education, environmental studies, economic development, business, and related fields.
The Endowed Chair will expand the Native American Studies curriculum through innovative, interdisciplinary courses that prepare students to become leaders and changemakers in Tribal Nations and Indigenous communities. They will serve as a visible academic and community leader, cultivating relationships with Tribal Nations, Tribal organizations, community partners, and alumni. The Chair also will play an important role in supporting Native American student recruitment, retention, mentorship, leadership development, and career readiness.
The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to translating academic learning into meaningful career pathways that advance Tribal Nations and Native American communities by building opportunities for experiential learning, community-engaged scholarship and internships. Strong consideration will be given to candidates with demonstrated experience working collaboratively with Tribal Nations and Native American organizations in Southern California. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to build meaningful partnerships that are responsive to the needs and interests of Tribal Nations and Native American communities. The University recognizes that candidates may demonstrate excellence across these areas through different combinations of scholarship, professional practice, Tribal leadership, teaching, and community engagement.
About the University:
The University of Redlands is an independent, regional, comprehensive university with strong roots in liberal arts education. The University of Redlands is committed to providing students with transformative experiential learning opportunities through its Core Four (https://www.redlands.edu/academics/colleges-and-schools/college-of-arts-and-sciences/corefour) initiative: undergraduate research, community service learning, internships, and study away. We are a Hispanic Serving Institution, with 40% of our student body composed of first-generation students and a strong Native Student Program which supports a growing number of Native American students and collaborates with the endowed chair to create programming on campus.
We actively encourage applications from women and under-represented groups, especially Native Americans.
Required Qualifications:
A Ph.D. or J.D. (or near completion of degree) is required at the time of appointment. If the Ph.D. is not complete at the time of appointment, the appointed candidate may begin at the rank of instructor and convert to assistant professor upon completion of the degree within a reasonable and agreed-upon period of time. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working with Tribal Nations, particularly in Southern California.
- Success mentoring and supporting Native American and Indigenous students.
- Experience developing interdisciplinary, experiential curricula that connect academic learning with Tribal priorities, community engagement, and diverse professional pathways.
- Evidence of community-engaged scholarship, professional practice, or leadership benefiting Indigenous communities.
- Ability to develop partnerships that create research, internship, and career opportunities for students.
- Community-engaged research or professional experience in Tribal governance, public policy, education, healthcare, economic development, environmental stewardship, cultural resource management, or related fields.
Application Process/ To Apply:
Applicants must upload the following documents to their candidate profile before submitting their application. All application materials must be submitted no later than January 4, 2027:
- letter of application
- CV.
- two-page statement of teaching philosophy that includes a description of their approach to teaching students with diverse educational and socioeconomic backgrounds
- one letter of recommendation addressing the candidate’s record of engagement with Native American communities
Those seeking additional information regarding the position should contact Jennifer Tilton, Chair, at jennifer_tilton@redlands.edu (mailto:jennifer_tilton@redlands.edu).
In compliance with The Americans with Disabilities Act, if selected for the interview process and accommodations are needed, please call (909) 748-8040. If you are unable to complete an application due to a disability, contact us at (909) 748-8040 to ask for accommodation or an alternative application process.
Physical Requirements/Working Conditions:
Working Conditions:
Standard office setting. Duties performed are primarily in an office environment while sitting at a desk or computer workstation or in meetings. At least minimal environmental controls to assure health and comfort. This position requires flexibility to work evening and weekend hours as well as the ability to travel, as required.
Physical Demands:
Incumbents regularly sit for long periods; walk short distances on a regular basis; may travel to various locations to attend meetings and conduct work; use hands and fingers to operate an electronic keyboard or other office machines; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; stoop or kneel or crouch to file; speak clearly and distinctly to answer telephones and to provide information; see to read fine print and operate computer; hear and understand voices over telephone and in person; and lift, carry and/or move objects weighing up to 20 pounds.
BACKGROUND CHECK: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check. Offers are conditional and may be rescinded if disqualifying information is found or if information was withheld or falsified. Current employees may be affected if the check is not satisfactorily completed.
DRIVER’S LICENSE: Certain positions require a valid driver’s license and enrollment in the DMV Government Employer Pull Notice Program to verify license status and driving record.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT
Human Resources (redlands.edu) (https://www.redlands.edu/offices-directory/offices/human-resources)
SUBMISSION OF A RESUME OR APPLICATION INDICATES AGREEMENT THAT THE UNIVERSITY MAY VERIFY ANY AND ALL INFORMATION CONTAINED THEREIN.
MEMBERS OF UNDERREPRESENTED GROUPS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Education
Required- Doctorate or better
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) or better
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
See All 9 Social Studies Department Chair Jobs
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Find JobsSocial Studies Department Chair Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in social studies department chair jobs.
- Valid state teaching license with a social studies or history endorsement
- Minimum of five years of classroom teaching experience in social studies
- Demonstrated experience developing or revising K-12 social studies curriculum
- Experience mentoring, coaching, or formally evaluating other teachers
- Familiarity with state academic standards and standardized assessment frameworks
- Master's degree in education, history, social sciences, or a related field
Tips for Your Social Studies Department Chair Job Search
Tailor your resume to curriculum leadership
Highlight specific curriculum frameworks you've developed or revised, state standards you've aligned to, and any department-wide assessment initiatives you led. Vague references to 'classroom experience' won't stand out the way documented curriculum work does.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists social studies department chair openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Show your instructional coaching record
Many postings require demonstrated experience mentoring or evaluating other teachers. Name the number of teachers you supported, the feedback cycles you ran, and any measurable improvements in classroom observation scores or student outcomes you can point to.
Target postings that match your grade band
Chair roles differ sharply between middle school and high school. Filter for your grade band early because job duties, required certifications, and expected AP or IB course oversight vary enough to make a mismatched application weak before it's even read.
Prepare a sample department improvement plan
Bring a one-page example of a department-level improvement plan you created or contributed to. Committees often ask chairs to walk through their approach to setting departmental goals, and a concrete artifact answers that question before it's asked.
Negotiate your release time and stipend separately
Chair positions frequently come with a stipend on top of base salary plus a set number of release periods for administrative duties. Confirm both during the offer stage so you're not absorbing chair responsibilities inside your existing teaching load.
Social Studies Department Chair Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most social studies department chairs?
The companies hiring the most social studies department chairs right now include Middle Tennessee State University, Saint Leo University, and University of Redlands, with the largest share of openings in California, Tennessee, and Arizona, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Charter management organizations and large urban public school districts tend to post the highest volume of openings at any given time.
How many social studies department chair jobs are remote?
About 0% of social studies department chair openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting the in-person nature of most K-12 leadership roles. The sub-areas most likely to offer remote or hybrid arrangements are curriculum writing contracts and district-level instructional coaching positions that don't require daily on-site presence.
How do you become a social studies department chair?
Start by building several years of strong classroom teaching in social studies and volunteering for curriculum committees or instructional leadership roles within your school. Earn or complete a master's degree if you haven't already, since most districts require it at the chair level. Then apply internally first, using your existing knowledge of department needs as an advantage, and document every leadership contribution you've made before the interview.
Can you get a social studies department chair role with limited leadership experience?
Yes, especially in smaller schools or charter networks that promote strong classroom teachers into chair roles. The key is to frame any informal leadership you've done, such as running professional development sessions, mentoring new hires, or serving on a curriculum adoption committee, as evidence of readiness. A concrete example of a department-level problem you helped solve carries more weight than a formal title.
What does the social studies department chair interview process look like?
Most districts run a two-stage process: a screening interview with HR or a principal focused on your teaching background and leadership philosophy, followed by a panel interview with department teachers, an assistant principal, and sometimes a curriculum coordinator. You'll typically be asked to present a sample lesson or a department improvement scenario. Some districts also conduct a walkthrough of your teaching or a review of student performance data you've worked with.
Where can I find and apply to social studies department chair jobs?
You can find and apply to social studies department chair jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States in one place. Search for roles that fit your grade band, subject area, and location, then apply directly to each listing that matches your background.
See All 9 Social Studies Department Chair Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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