University of New Mexico is hiring: Assistant Professor of Film and Digital Arts

Assistant Professor of Film and Digital Arts

Position Summary: The Department of Film and Digital Arts at the University of New Mexico, College of Fine Arts, invites applications for a tenure track Assistant Professor position in Film and Digital Arts. Position begins in August 2026. Teaching responsibilities will include foundational and advanced studio courses in a wide range of production approaches and aesthetics. We are especially interested in candidates with expertise and teaching experience related to traditional narrative film and television production, and 3D animation. Starting salary is $62,400. UNM offers parental leave, tuition for partners and dependent children, and internal grant competitions on an LGBTQ+ friendly campus where academic freedom is valued.

Film and Digital Arts offers degrees and concentrations in Film Production, Animation, Gaming, and Film History and Criticism. Our emphasis on screenwriting, cinematography, producing, and directing prepares students to lead and influence the creative process. We also provide a firm foundation in essential crew skills, ensuring that our graduates are ready to work in any team‑based creative environment. Enrollment in the department is large, with 716 majors and pre‑majors registered in Fall 2025. Our alumni enjoy success at renowned institutions such as Lucasfilm, Industrial Light and Magic, Google, Netflix, Meow Wolf, and Warner Bros. Many are instrumental in the growth of New Mexico's thriving film industry, home of Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul, and many others. Cultivating art and artists whose presence is often underrepresented, our faculty supports students from the rich and varied cultures of New Mexico and beyond in a collegial department where intellectual inquiry meets experimentation.

New Mexico is a film hotspot, and Albuquerque attracts artists and scholars worldwide. This state school with a faculty of over 3,000 serves approximately 22,000 students.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: M.F.A. or Ph.D. in digital production/moving image art or related interdisciplinary field by start date of appointment. If selected, you must provide official certification of successful completion of all degree requirements before employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Expertise and/or teaching experience in two or more of the following fields: directing, cinematography, screenwriting, producing, digital post‑production, production design, sound, gaming, and animation, with particular interest in traditional narrative film and television production, and 3D animation.
• Record of teaching introductory and advanced studio courses in a wide range of production approaches and aesthetics.
• Compelling creative work in relevant fields.
• Demonstrated commitment to cultivating an understanding of the rich and varied cultures of New Mexico and supporting the university's mission to serve local and global communities.

Application Instructions

1. A letter of application addressing areas of specialization, research, creative work, plans for future projects, and teaching interests.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV).
3. Three professional references (name, institution, position, email address, telephone number).
4. Statement of teaching experience and philosophy.
5. Two links to creative work.

Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. For best consideration, please apply by 11/17/2025. This position will remain open until filled.

Applicants must provide official certification of successful completion of all degree requirements prior to initial employment.

The University of New Mexico is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. Decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

Contact film@unm.edu with any questions.