Description

McPherson College seeks an enthusiastic, student-centered professional to join the Health & Sport Studies Department as an Assistant Professor of Exercise Science. This is a full-time, tenure-track, benefits-eligible position with an anticipated start date of August 2026. McPherson College is a career-focused liberal arts institution that educates whole persons through scholarship, participation, and service. Located in central Kansas with convenient access to Wichita, Manhattan, Lawrence, and Kansas City, McPherson is a vibrant community offering endless possibilities locally and in the region.

A recent investment of over $700,000 to renovate laboratory and classroom space has created modern, high-performance learning environments. These new spaces feature cutting-edge physiology, human performance, and strength & conditioning equipment which provide students with hands-on, industry-relevant experiences to prepare them for careers in exercise science and health professions. The college has set an ambitious vision through its Community by Design 2.0 strategic plan and recently announced the Ward-Burkholder endowment of $1.5 billion in estate gift commitments. McPherson College has also been recognized ten years in a row as a Great College to Work For by The Chronicle of Higher Education.

Home of the Bulldogs, McPherson College competes in the NAIA Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) with 18 varsity sports. The Athletics Department emphasizes holistic student-athlete development, academic success, and competitive excellence. This position provides a unique opportunity to integrate academic instruction with applied strength and conditioning practice, directly impacting both classroom learning and athletic performance.

To apply, complete the quick and easy online application at https://my.mcpherson.edu/ICS/Employment/ and submit a letter of interest addressing your qualifications for this position. Other required materials include: 

• Curriculum vitae
• Statement of teaching philosophy
• Undergraduate and graduate transcripts (unofficial accepted during screening)
• List of five professional references with contact information

Review of applications will continue until the position is filled. 

Employee Benefits. McPherson College is proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support the well-being of our employees and their families. Benefits include:

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), including separate sick leave
• 17 Paid Holidays annually
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with 10% employer contribution
• Undergraduate Tuition Assistance for immediate family members
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Basic Life Insurance coverage
• Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance

Equal Opportunity. McPherson College is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability or handicap, sex, marital status, veteran status, GINA (the Genetic Nondiscrimination Identification Act), sexual orientation, pregnancy and other related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. This policy also includes applicants. Retaliation against any employee for filing or supporting a complaint of discrimination or harassment in violation of this policy is also prohibited.

Requirements

The successful candidate will hold two primary responsibilities between academics and athletics: 1) teaching 18 credit hours per academic year within the Exercise Science major while providing leadership for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) preparation program; and 2) oversee strength and conditioning coaching for select McPherson College athletic teams.

Primary teaching responsibilities may include, but not limited to, courses in Strength and Conditioning, Biomechanics, Personal & Group Exercise Training, and Fitness Assessment & Prescription. The person in this appointment will maintain regular office hours, advise Exercise Science majors, support undergraduate projects and applied learning opportunities, assist with student recruiting, and contribute to departmental and college governance.