IMPORTANT APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Note: If you have an expansive CV, we recommend that you apply manually and only include the positions you have held in the last ten (10) years. You will then be able to attach your Resume/CV, as well as all other supporting documentation in the "My Experience" section of your application.
Job Description
DESCRIPTION
The BFA Animation & VFX program within the College of Communication and Media seeks a dynamic and innovative Assistant Teaching Professor (non-tenure track) specializing in Animation, Visual Effects (VFX), Gaming, and Virtual Reality (VR) to join our program. The successful candidate will update and enhance our curriculum to incorporate advancements in immersive media, VR production, and generative AI—ensuring alignment with industry trends and preparing students for emerging opportunities in creative and technical fields.
This role includes the opportunity to collaborate with students in developing VR experiences for both Dreamscape Learn’s free-roam and stationary platforms, integrating storytelling, animation, and interactive design into immersive environments. The ideal candidate will bring a combination of academic expertise, hands-on industry experience, and strong professional connections across animation, VFX, gaming, and virtual reality sectors.
Key Responsibilities:
Teaching and Curriculum Development:
Design and teach undergraduate and/or graduate courses in animation, VFX, and gaming, with emphases on:
Gaming engines, specifically Unity.
The latest workflows in the animation and VFX Industry.
Industry-standard VFX software (e.g., Houdini, Nuke).
● Continuously update curriculum to reflect evolving technologies and methodologies, including AI-driven processes, real-time rendering, and virtual production pipelines.
● Mentor students in developing creative, technical, and professional skills.
Industry Engagement:
● Build partnerships with industry professionals, companies, and studios to provide students with networking and internship opportunities.
● Serve as a bridge between academia and industry by maintaining professional practice and staying updated on trends and innovations.
Service and Leadership:
● Participate actively in departmental, college, and university committees, including curriculum design and student success initiatives.
● Support success for all students through teaching, mentorship, and departmental activities.
● Collaborate on interdisciplinary projects within the institution and externally.
The University is committed to the success of teaching faculty through opportunities for promotion and professional development to support long-term success and flourishing at the University.
Position is a two-year, ten-month, non-tenure track (NTT) appointment, with eligibility for reappointment based on established NTT procedures.
THE COLLEGE OF COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA
The College of Communication and Media features eight dynamic programs and a talented and diverse student population of over 2,000. Offering degrees in Film and Television, Social Media and Public Relations, Advertising, Journalism and Digital Media, Sports Communication, Communication and Media Studies, Animation and VFX, and an online MA devoted to strategic communication, the College prepares the next generation of communication and media practitioners and leaders. Housed in world-class, state-of-the-art facilities just 12 miles from New York City, the College is the only program in the country that offers the following opportunities for students: a radio station (WMSC), newspaper (The Montclarion), strategic communications agency (Hawk Communications), sports network (Red Hawk Sports Network) streaming platform (Hawk+) and Digital Newsroom (News Lab). The College also has its own Career Services team dedicated to preparing students for the internship and job search process. Student projects and programs have recently received national recognition from PRSSA’s Bateman Competition, an Edward R Murrow Award, several Marconi Award nominations, and College Television ("Student Emmy") Awards from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.
QUALIFICATIONS
● Education: Bachelor's in Animation, VFX, Game Design, or a related field. Preferred: Master’s degree.
● Experience:
o Professional experience in the animation, VFX, or gaming industries.
o Demonstrated expertise in gaming engines (specifically Unity), industry-standard VFX tools, and generative AI.
o Experience teaching in higher education strongly preferred; experience teaching, training or mentoring in non-formal settings required.
● Skills and Competencies:
o Proficiency in Unity, Unreal Engine, and VFX software such as Houdini, Maya, Nuke, or similar.
o Strong knowledge of generative AI tools and their applications in animation, VFX, and gaming.
o Effective communication, collaboration, and mentorship skills.
o Ability to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
SALARY RANGE: $67,027.48 - $92,581.50
STARTING DATE August 28, 2026
REQUIRED MATERIALS:
Cover letter and curriculum vitae, which should be uploaded during the application process via Workday.
Candidates who are shortlisted will be asked to supply 3 letters of recommendation separately.
APPLY BY: The position is open until filled, and application review begins immediately.
Salary Range
$67,027.48-$92,581.50 AnnuallyThe position may also be eligible for comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance. For further details, please visit: https://www.montclair.edu/human-resources/benefits/
Montclair State University considers factors such as, but not limited to, scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s relevant work experience, education, skills, and internal equity, when extending an offer.
Salary offers for internal employees who are part of a collective bargaining unit (CBU) and are applying to a position that is within a CBU will be determined in accordance with contractual provisions.
Department
College of Communication and MediaPosition Type
Teaching FacultyContact Information:
For questions or concerns, please contact Human Resources' Workday Recruiting Support at 973-655-5000 (Option 2), or email talent@montclair.edu.
Inclusion Statement
Montclair State University values access and educational excellence. We are committed to an environment of diverse perspectives which ensures that graduates will be civically engaged, committed to democracy, and prepared to thrive as global citizens. We foster a community that promotes varied experiences and voices. We seek applicants who will contribute diverse ideas and perspectives and who value an environment that promotes educational growth and advancement for all.
EEO/AA Statement
Montclair State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution with a strong commitment to diversity.
Additional information can be found on the website at
www.montclair.edu/human-resources/about-us/eo-aa-and-diversity/
Title IX and 34 C.F.R. 106 Policy
Montclair State is required by Title IX and 34 C.F.R. 106 not to discriminate on the basis of sex or gender, and does not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in the operation of education programs and activities. The requirement to not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in the operation of education programs and activities extends to admission and employment. For further details, please visit: https://www.montclair.edu/human-resources/job-seekers/