Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)

About San Francisco Bay University: San Francisco Bay University (SFBU), an independent, nonprofit, WASC-accredited university situated in the heart of Silicon Valley in Fremont, California, seeks multiple innovative and experienced adjunct faculty members to provide pedagogical leadership in our general education and computer science programs. Positions are non-tenure track, adjunct subject matter expert appointments. SFBU’s mission is to offer inclusive, innovative, and inspirational education for lifelong careers and our vision is to set the standard as a national model of higher education in service of the common good.

At SFBU, students come first. We prioritize students’ needs by fostering personal engagement among students, faculty, and staff. We are committed to providing affordable quality education with a deep commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. 

We encourage you to learn more about SFBU by reviewing our strategic plan at https://www.sfbu.edu/strategic-plan.

Position Overview: San Francisco Bay University seeks Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to collaborate in redesigning and transforming 16-week face-to-face courses into high-quality, engaging, and pedagogically sound 8-week online courses. SMEs will work closely with instructional designers, the Chief Learning Officer, the Provost, and other stakeholders to ensure best practices in online learning, including student engagement, accessibility, and rigorous academic integrity.  Modality/ Location of the position: Remote from NY and CA only. No visa sponsorship is available.

Subject Matter Experts must possess experience and course design expertise in one of the following areas: General Education (e.g. Storytelling, Leadership, Life Design, Global Communication, Neuroanatomy),  or Computer Science (IT, IoT, Cybersecurity, Data Structures, Artificial Intelligence).

Teaching Excellence: Possess deep subject knowledge, pedagogical expertise, and the ability to engage online students with innovative strategies. We seek faculty who understand student-centered design and can adopt pedagogical practices. These practices include asynchronous active learning strategies, collaborative projects, problem-based learning, inquiry-based learning, flipped classroom models, and the use of formative assessments to inform and adjust teaching. SMEs should be proficient in facilitating interactive discussions, promoting critical thinking, and guiding students to apply concepts to real-world scenarios. 

Primary Responsibilities:

• Work collaboratively with instructional designers, Chief Learning Officer, Provost, and other stakeholders to redesign and migrate 16-week course content for an 8-week online format while maintaining academic rigor and learning outcomes.
• Ensure course materials align with best practices in online education, including interactive elements, multimedia integration, and active learning strategies.
• Design assessments that are authentic, varied, and aligned with course objectives, ensuring they effectively measure student learning in an online environment.
• Ensure compliance with WCAG standards.
• Leverage technology-enhanced learning tools such as animations, AI Avatars, discussion boards, video-based instruction, adaptive learning platforms, and gamification where appropriate in collaboration with Instructional Design staff. .
• Structure courses for clarity and ease of navigation using a modular approach with clear objectives and pathways for student success.
• Recommend or develop supplemental resources to enhance student engagement and comprehension.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Masters Degree required; Doctorate Preferred in liberal arts, psychology, business, mathematics, computational sciences, or closely related field.
• Prior experience teaching in higher education, preferably in online modalities.
• Demonstrated knowledge of best practices in online learning, including instructional design principles, student engagement strategies, and assessment methodologies.
• Experience with technology tools that enhance online learning, such as video creation tools, interactive simulations, or collaborative platforms.
• Strong organizational and communication skills with the ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in course development or curriculum design for online programs.
• Knowledge of data-driven approaches to improve student learning outcomes in online environments.
• Familiarity with Canvas (Learning Management System)

Salary: $3,500/course ($70.00 per hour, 50 hours).

San Francisco Bay University is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We encourage candidates who will contribute to our mission of fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment to apply.

Join us in our mission to provide innovative, inclusive, and transformative education and help us shape the future of higher education in the heart of Silicon Valley. We look forward to welcoming a passionate Professor of Practice to our academic community.

This position description is not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time, with or without notice.

SFBU is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer: SFBU is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. SFBU does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.

In accordance with federal and state disability laws, San Francisco Bay University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you require assistance during the application or interview process, please contact SFBU Human Resources at hrmgr@sfbu.edu.

Salary : $70