Assistant Professor in Economics - Fall 2026 - Maine Staffing : Job Details

The Economics Program at the University of Southern Maine is seeking a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Economics to start in the Fall Semester of 2026. Our strong preference is for an economist who can teach Macroeconomics and at least one of International Economics, Labor Economics, Political Economy, Feminist Economics, Health Economics, or Public Economics. Responsibilities include undergraduate teaching of three classes per semester, advising of students, maintaining an active program of research and other scholarly activity, and engaging in university and professional service.

About the USM Department of Economics: The USM Economics Program has a proud tradition of faculty trained in heterodox as well as neo-classical economics. The program seeks faculty who are able to introduce students to standard quantitative and theoretical methods, who understand the value of humanistic/liberal arts approaches, institutional and historical inquiry, student writing, and classroom participation. We seek dynamic faculty who are passionate educators and committed to producing high-quality, impactful research. We welcome candidates who thrive in collaborative, team-oriented environments and who bring a strategic vision and energy to help shape the Economics Program.

About the University: The University of Southern Maine is a vibrant academic community located in the greater Portland, Maine area, including campuses in Portland, Gorham, Lewiston, and online. USM is part of the University of Maine System and offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a highly engaged student-centered learning environment, USM is a steward of higher education, helping drive the economic, cultural, and civic life in the communities where our campuses are located and beyond. USM is committed to providing expanded access to high-quality education that elevates economic opportunity and contributes significantly to the vitality of a diverse society.

The University of Southern Maine fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment that respects and appreciates varied perspectives, enhancing teaching, learning, personal growth, and overall institutional achievement. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our dedication to academic excellence and the enrichment of our community. We are dedicated to our Service Promise, Student Focused Every Day and seek a team member who embraces this commitment and upholds our core values of Respect & Care, Integrity, Equity, and Responsiveness.

The targeted starting date for this position is Fall 2026 and will pay a base salary of $65,000 plus benefits. Candidates must reside within commutable distances from the USM campuses. This requirement is essential for the ability to participate in supporting and building upon our university culture of student focused every day and allows for regular participation in on-campus activities, meetings, and fulfills the responsibilities of the role effectively. The University of Southern Maine provides highly competitive benefits that include health, dental and vision insurance; life insurance; short- and long-term disability insurance; a tuition waiver program for employees and tuition discounts for spouses and eligible dependents; a 403(b)-retirement plan with 10% employer contribution; and more.

Required Qualifications:

• Earned doctorate in Economics by the time of appointment (8/30/2026).
• Evidence of strong college teaching.
• Demonstrated potential for ongoing publication.

How to Apply: Please submit the following materials: Cover Letter, Curriculum Vitae, Job Market Paper (JMP), Research Statement, Statement of Teaching Philosophy, Sample Syllabus, Complete Teaching Evaluations, and Names and contact information for at least three professional references. All required materials must be submitted by November 10, 2025. Appropriate background screening will be conducted for the successful candidate. At this time, the University of Southern Maine is unable to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship support. Questions can be addressed to Professor Michael Cauvel at [email protected].