Experienced Teaching Assistant Professor – Digital Filmmaking: Inspiring the Next Generation of Filmmakers at Portland State University

Join the Portland State University Team as a Teaching Assistant Professor in Digital Filmmaking

Portland State University (PSU), a renowned institution dedicated to academic excellence and community engagement, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Teaching Assistant Professor to join its School of Film team. As a key member of our faculty, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of digital filmmaking education, inspiring students to achieve their creative potential, and contributing to the university's mission to "Let Knowledge Serve the City." This is a unique opportunity to teach, mentor, and guide students in a collaborative and innovative environment, preparing them for successful careers in the film industry.

About Portland State University and the School of Film

Located in the heart of Portland, Oregon, Portland State University is a vibrant and diverse institution that offers a wide range of academic programs, including 124 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Our 49-acre downtown campus is a hub of sustainability, featuring green buildings and a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. The School of Film, part of PSU's College of Arts & Letters, is a leading institution for film education, with a strong reputation for producing talented filmmakers and industry professionals. Our students have screened their work regionally, nationally, and internationally, and many have gone on to work on local and international film and television productions.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly qualified and experienced Teaching Assistant Professor to join our digital filmmaking faculty. As a non-tenure-track, teaching-intensive line, this position requires a strong background in digital filmmaking, experience teaching undergraduate film production, and the ability to design and teach foundational and specialized workshops in various cinematic arts subspecialties. The successful candidate will have a generalist skillset in digital filmmaking, with expertise in areas such as sound editing, production sound recording, cinematography, picture editing, visual effects, multi-camera field production, and producing for motion pictures.

Key Responsibilities

• Teach a range of courses in digital filmmaking, including introductory, intermediate, and advanced classes, on a quarter system (3 terms, 11 weeks each)
• Develop and teach foundational and specialized workshops in various cinematic arts subspecialties, such as sound editing, production sound recording, cinematography, picture editing, visual effects, multi-camera field production, and producing for motion pictures
• Design and implement student-centered approaches to teaching, with a focus on inclusive and engaging learning environments
• Mentor and advise students in their academic and professional pursuits, providing guidance and support to help them achieve their goals
• Participate in departmental and university-wide service, including committee work and other activities that support the mission of the School of Film and PSU

Essential Qualifications

• MFA in film or a related field (or significant professional credits in film/media production and/or post-production)
• Minimum of three years of university/college teaching experience
• Evidence of a proven record of teaching success in a college/university setting
• Strong background in digital filmmaking, with expertise in areas such as sound editing, production sound recording, cinematography, picture editing, visual effects, multi-camera field production, and producing for motion pictures
• Commitment to student-centered approaches to teaching and learning

Preferred Qualifications

• MFA in an area associated with film production
• Professional credits in film/media production and/or post-production
• Experience teaching foundational, conceptual, and practical elements of digital filmmaking within a college/university setting
• Strong background in student-centered approaches to teaching, including experience working with students of diverse backgrounds and learning styles

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work effectively with students, faculty, and staff in a diverse and inclusive environment
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying current with industry trends and technologies

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

As a member of the PSU faculty, you will have access to a range of career growth opportunities and learning benefits, including:

• Professional development funding for conferences, workshops, and other activities that support your ongoing growth and development
• Opportunities for collaboration and networking with colleagues and industry professionals
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including film production studios, editing suites, and equipment
• Competitive salary and benefits package, including 95% premium paid healthcare, a generous retirement and vacation package, and reduced tuition rates for employee, spouse, or dependent at any of the Oregon Public Universities

Work Environment and Company Culture

Portland State University is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all employees and students. Our campus is a vibrant and dynamic community that values equity, social justice, and community engagement. As a member of the PSU community, you will be part of a collaborative and supportive team that is dedicated to making a positive impact in the world.

Compensation and Benefits

The starting 9-month annual salary rate for this position is $68,751, with an excellent benefits package that includes:

• 95% premium paid healthcare
• Generous retirement and vacation package
• Reduced tuition rates for employee, spouse, or dependent at any of the Oregon Public Universities

How to Apply

If you are a motivated and experienced educator with a passion for digital filmmaking, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your application, including:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Letter of intent (relating your experience to the required qualifications)
• Statement of Teaching Philosophy
• Evidence of Teaching Effectiveness
• Samples of creative work and/or portfolio website demonstrating your work in film production
• Names and email addresses of individuals (minimum of 3 - maximum of 5) who have agreed to serve as references

Application review begins October 9, 2023, and continues until finalists are identified. We look forward to receiving your application!