Assistant/Associate Professor of Watershed Management and Hydrology

The Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department (NRES) in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, is seeking a full-time academic year, tenure-track Assistant/Associate professor position in watershed management and hydrology starting August 17, 2026.

Cal Poly has a tradition of excellence in teaching and scholarship that supports a curriculum centered on a "Learn by Doing" philosophy and focused on preparing graduates to make a positive impact on their world day one. The ideal candidate will show a strong ability to teach courses in support of the undergraduate majors of Forestry and Fire Science, Earth and Soil Science, and Environmental Protection and Management as well as new courses related to curriculum enhancement and the candidate’s scholarship as needed.  Emphasis for teaching in the Forest and Fire Sciences major is preferred.

The teaching and scholarship area of the ideal candidate would broadly center on surface hydrology that addresses the range of economic, climatic and conservation challenges facing forests, working lands and natural environments in the western United States.  These include aspects of watershed assessment, riparian ecology, watershed and stream restoration, soil erosion and control, stormwater, and stream ecology. Applicants with a demonstrated ability to partner with the forest industry, environmental consulting, agricultural industry and other stakeholders to advance teaching and scholarship are encouraged to apply. A vision and ability to leverage Cal Poly’s Swanton Pacific Ranch to enhance education, advance applied scholarship, and strengthen Cal Poly’s connection with the forest industry, agricultural industry, various environmental groups, and other relevant public and private stakeholders are considered strengths.

Rank and salary commensurate with education and experience of the individual selected. Anticipated hiring ranges:

Assistant Professor: $90,948 - $105,156

Associate Professor: $105,492 - $114,720

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT

This position is open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, Cal Poly provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every student and employee has access to the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed in a university environment and in their communities. Cal Poly complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU’s Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices.

Cal Poly is a diverse community of individuals who represent many perspectives, beliefs and identities, committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and intellectually vibrant environment. We cultivate a culture of open dialogue, mutual respect, and belonging to support educational excellence and student success. Through academic programs, student organizations and activities, faculty initiatives, and community partnerships, we encourage meaningful engagement with diverse perspectives. As a higher education institution, we are dedicated to advancing knowledge and empowering individuals to reach their full potential by prioritizing inclusive curriculum development, faculty and staff training, student mentorship, and comprehensive support programs. At Cal Poly, excellence is built on merit, talent, diversity, accessibility, and equal opportunity for all.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Doctorate degree focused on watershed science or wildland hydrology or surface hydrology, or related field by start date with a record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and conferences. Candidates nearing completion of the doctorate (ABD) may be considered but must provide proof that the doctorate was awarded prior to the start of appointment. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellence in teaching, effective communication and interpersonal skills. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to develop an externally funded, applied research program that involves undergraduate and graduate students, and partnerships with key stakeh