The Department of Art at the University of Massachusetts Amherst seeks applicants for a full-time academic-year (nine-month) Non-tenure track (NTT) Lecturer position in Animation & Visual Narrative. The department values diversity as a factor in academic and artistic excellence.

The successful candidate will be an experienced visual narrative artist and educator with a passion for storytelling, character design, and world-building across multiple genres, pipelines, and platforms. They will be able to teach Introduction to 2D Animation and Professional Practices for Animators, as well as courses in storyboarding, character design, and other areas of visual development. Additional expertise in illustration, comic arts, or transmedia storytelling is highly encouraged.

The candidate will demonstrate an innovative approach to narrative, with the ability to apply skills and concepts in interdisciplinary contexts. They will stay current with trends and practices in the areas of animation and visual narrative, and work to develop foundational and advanced courses in visual narrative arts. They will also mentor students in preparing for careers in the animation and narrative industries, including developing strong portfolios, reels, and other professional materials aligned with industry standards. Experience working in collaborative studio environments is highly desirable.

The person in this position will teach three undergraduate courses per semester and participate in service to the department for the academic year. Other teaching responsibilities include serving on BFA and MFA thesis committees, student advising, and helping to oversee animation facilities and equipment. A commitment to the academic success of all students and strong departmental citizenship is essential to a successful candidacy.

Application Instructions

In addition to a full application for employment, please submit:

To receive full consideration, submit your application materials by January 5, 2026. The search will remain open until it is filled; however, applications received after the priority deadline of January 5th may not be reviewed. Incomplete dossiers will not be reviewed.

Additional Information

This is a full-time, benefited position with an initial appointment of two years. Expected start date: September 1, 2026.

Cover letter should be addressed to: Hallie Bahn, Search Committee Chair, Department of Art UMass Amherst

For more information on living, working, and learning in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts please visit:  https://www.umass.edu/faculty-development/prospective-faculty

The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.

Minimum Qualifications

• MFA in Art or similar terminal degree at the time of starting the position
• Two years full-time teaching at college-level beyond graduate school, or the equivalent of eight college-level courses
• Strong background in animation, visual development, or related visual narrative fields
• Knowledge or experience teaching Introduction to 2D Animation and Professional Practices for Animators
• Ability to develop new courses in areas such as visual development, illustration, comic arts, and/or transmedia
• Record of professional activity demonstrated through creative practice, research, exhibitions, publications, or industry work
• Familiarity with Mac OS and Windows operating systems
• Commitment to mentoring undergraduate and graduate students
• Commitment to departmental citizenship and equitable labor practices

Preferred Qualifications

• Additional expertise in illustration, comic arts, or transmedia storytelling
• Competency in industry-standard animation and digital drawing software.