Lecturer-Design

Overview

The University of Vermont's Department of Community Development and Applied Economics (CDAE) invites applications for a full-time Lecturer in Design with an emphasis in graphic design, visual communication design or related discipline. This position supports an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates communication design across undergraduate majors in Public Communication and Community-Centered Design. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the next generation of designers and design leaders focused on systemic change, sustainability, and community resilience.

Candidates must have proficiency using Adobe Creative Cloud programs. Desired experience with human-centered design methodologies and emerging technologies are considered a plus. This is a 9-month, full time (1.0) position expected to start in August 2026. A presence on campus for instruction, advising, service, and department meetings is expected. Qualified applicants must possess an advanced degree in a relevant discipline by the time of appointment.

• Teach undergraduate courses in visual communication design, with primary emphasis on communication design foundations, methods, and digital tools.
• Mentor students in studio and project-based courses, including guidance on portfolio development and professional preparation.
• Advise students on course selection and graduation requirements toward degree completion.
• Contribute to departmental curriculum development, committee service, and community/industry outreach.

• A master's degree in design, visual communication, graphic design or a closely related field by the time of appointment, but a terminal degree is preferred (MFA, MDes).
• Ability to teach courses across the undergraduate design curriculum.
• Evidence of creative and technical proficiency in design, demonstrated through a professional and/or academic portfolio.
• Experience with contemporary digital design technologies and tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Cloud, Figma, or comparable platforms).
• Commitment to inclusive, student-centered, and interdisciplinary design education.

• Demonstrated teaching experience at the undergraduate level or equivalent of professional training and mentorship.
• Contribute to courses in related areas such as service design, human-centered design (HCD), experience (UX/UI) design, or product design.
• Knowledge of systems thinking, human-centered design, and/or user- or service-centered approaches.
• Experience leading interdisciplinary projects, engaging with community/public partners, or advancing sustainability and social justice through design.

We are a transdisciplinary department whose faculty are diverse in degrees and focus but connected by our scholarly commitment to sustainable communities through applied research, education, and outreach. CDAE offers undergraduate majors in Public Communication, Community-Centered Design, Community Entrepreneurship, and Community and International Development. We also offer a Master of Science (MS) in Community Development and Applied Economics, a Master of Public Administration (MPA), and a Ph.D. in Sustainable Development Policy, Economics and Governance.

The University is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to Our Common Ground Values and excellence of the academic community through their teaching and service.

Application Materials: All candidates must apply online at , position number  and must attach to their application:

• Cover letter: including a commitment to Our Common Ground Values
• Curriculum vitae or resume
• Statement of interest: the statement of interest must address the intersection of the candidate's (1) design philosophy and practice, (2) teaching philosophy, and (3) professional effort towards and commitment to the tenets of UVM's Our Common Ground.
• pdf of work samples which may include ten (10) creative samples, including professional/client-based works and/or student works with corresponding assignment descriptions.
• Applicants are also required to list three references with contact information. Please note that reference letters will only be required upon request for finalists.

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