Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) is hiring: Assistant Professor of

Assistant Professor of Illustration and Program Lead

Join to apply for the Assistant Professor of Illustration and Program Lead role at Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) located in Lakewood, CO.
Base Salary: $65,000–$75,000 per year. Application deadline: Open until filled.

Program Lead Responsibilities

• Teach an approved course load and coordinate studio activities, portfolio reviews, and mentorship of part‑time faculty.


• Maintain high teaching effectiveness as evidenced by student evaluations, retention, and other pedagogical metrics.


• Offer peer‑to‑peer instructional mentorship and coaching to part‑time faculty.


• Lead assessment of student learning, develop a forward‑looking illustration curriculum, and revise course content.


• Supervise subject‑matter experts, manage contracts, and support the department chair with hiring, budgeting, and program management.


• Assist with program operations: scheduling, budgeting, event coordination, and support student needs.


• Collaborate with departments to support program health, enrollment, and success; participate in accreditation and strategic initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• Graduate degree (MA, MS, MFA, MDes) in Art, Design, Illustration, Animation, Entertainment Arts, or a closely related field; OR a bachelor’s degree plus a substantial professional record in concept art or visual development.


• 2+ years of leadership experience in an academic or professional context (e.g., Program Lead, curriculum coordinator).


• 2+ years of teaching experience at a postsecondary institution with expertise in entertainment arts principles and software.


• Evidence of inclusive and effective teaching that values a diverse student body.


• Demonstrated collaboration across faculty and instructional design structures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Terminal degree (MFA or PhD) in a related discipline or equivalent professional distinction.


• Sustained record of professional or studio‑based work in concept art, visual development, or entertainment arts, demonstrated through portfolio, credits, or exhibitions.


• Track record of leading or supporting curriculum development, assessment, accreditation, and online education.


• Proficiency with Adobe Suite, Procreate, Blender, ZBrush, and emerging design technologies.


• Ongoing engagement with contemporary industry practices and pipelines.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Comprehensive knowledge of illustration, concept art, visual development, character, background, and prop design for games and publishing pipelines.


• Ability to teach and mentor students from diverse backgrounds and educational paths.


• Commitment to serving all students, staff, and faculty, including those of different races, genders, sexual orientations, and backgrounds.


• Strong interpersonal and communication skills across multiple teaching modalities.


• Ability to work autonomously, take initiative, and meet deadlines.


• Interest in emerging trends and technologies in illustration education.

Benefits

• Time Off Package: paid vacation, sick and holidays.


• Flexible Spending Account (FSA).


• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.


• Basic Life & AD&D; Short and Long Term Disability.


• 401(k) employer match.


• Tuition Assistance.


• Other voluntary benefits offered.

Application Required Materials

• Curriculum Vitae.


• Cover Letter articulating alignment with Program Lead responsibilities.


• Teaching Statement with pedagogical approaches and integration of AI‑driven tools.


• Three sample course syllabi.


• Twenty images of professional work with client list (PDF).


• Twenty images of student work with image list and description (PDF).


• Three to five professional references.

Equal Opportunity Employer