SUMMARY
The Micky Elliott College of Fine Arts at Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA) invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Filmmaking. Terminal degree (M.F.A.) in the field of filmmaking or equivalent professional experience is required. Qualified candidates must have experience in film production. The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to teach filmmaking courses at the university level, teach foundation and advanced courses in screenwriting, and mentor students pursuing screenwriting as a career.
SFA offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in Studio Art (B.A., B.F.A. and M.F.A.). The regular teaching course load is 3-3, plus creative/research activities and service/committee obligations. The SFA Filmmaking Program offers a generalist curriculum. Students gain foundational experience in screenwriting, location sound, directing, producing, cinematography, and editing and are expected to focus their work on a specific craft. The program has a rich 46-year history at SFA and includes a unique summer feature production which provides students with a hands-on experience that prepares them to work in the industry. The program is located in a new facility (opened fall semester 2023) equipped with a state-of-the-art sound stage, editing classroom, screening room, and storage room in a collaborative space with Sound Recording Technology, Theatre, and Dance.
Preferred QualificationsExperience as a film generalist focused on screenwriting.
- Experience with budget and equipment management.
- Fluency in creative software options for creating and editing in the visual, sound-based, and media management areas.
- Record of professional art practice and cross-discipline communication.
- Knowledge of current approaches, practices, technologies, and issues in filmmaking.
- Ability to teach foundations in all areas of film production including location sound, directing, cinematography, and post production.
JOB DESCRIPTION
This is a full-time, nine-month, tenure-track faculty position responsible for contributing significantly to Stephen F. Austin State University’s undergraduate and/or graduate programs through teaching, scholarship/creative accomplishment, and service. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Reports to the chair.
QUALIFICATIONS
Terminal degree in the field in which the individual will be teaching is required. ABD candidates may be considered if Ph.D. is earned prior to start date.
The rank of Assistant Professor is held by an individual who demonstrates the capability to produce research/scholarly/creative accomplishments, teach effectively, and provide service to the academic and general communities.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Performs an equivalent of twenty-four teaching load credits (TLC) for the combined fall and spring semesters; reduction of teaching load through reassignment of duties is possible under certain circumstances.
- Engages in research/scholarly/creative and service activities at levels that are appropriate to faculty rank and departmental tenure/merit criteria.
- Provides services to the university and the profession.
- Participates in promotion review of lower-ranked faculty members within the department.
- When tenured, participates in tenure review of candidates for tenure.
- May conduct supplemental instructional activities such as independent studies, internships, advising, and thesis/dissertation supervision.
NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- May receive course load reassignment when assigned administrative duties in support of the department/college/university.
- May receive course load reassignment when assigned to prepare course material during the first semester/year when included as part of initial contract.
- May receive course load reassignment when approved to conduct research/scholarly/creative accomplishment and service which exceed normal expectations.
- May supervise the work of student and/or graduate assistants.
- May serve on departmental, college, and university committees.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills, and abilities or be able to explain and demonstrate that the individual can perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Extensive knowledge in the field in which the individual will be teaching.
- Ability to effectively teach undergraduate and/or graduate students.
- Ability and commitment to conduct research and/or scholarly/creative accomplishments and service.
- Ability to work within a collaborative faculty environment.
- Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form.
- Ability to work effectively and patiently with students.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANT
Please submit the following required documents:
- CV
- Cover letter
- Teaching Philosophy
- Portfolio (Include l inks to time based media samples of personal and student work)
Application review will begin April 1, 2026.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Safety Statement
Stephen F. Austin State University recognizes the potential for accidents in performing job-related tasks. SFA promotes a safe working environment. Employees will be responsible for completing assigned tasks safely and efficiently. Employee evaluations will include safe job performance.
This is a security-sensitive position subject to criminal record check.
This is an IT-sensitive position subject to the Computer and Network Security policy.
