Assistant/Associate Professor of Accounting

Faculty at UW Tacoma Keybank often collaborate with prominent Seattle firms like Amazon and Starbucks, enriching accounting education with real-world insights. This connection fosters research opportunities and practical case studies, making the role uniquely integrated into the vibrant Pacific Northwest business community.

Seattle’s growing tech and corporate sectors increase demand for accounting academics, yet competition remains high due to limited tenure-track openings. Candidates with strong research profiles and experience in interdisciplinary accounting topics tend to stand out in this dynamic but selective regional academic environment.

Candidates should demonstrate excellence in both teaching and cutting-edge research, often contributing to international accounting standards or innovative financial reporting methodologies. A successful professor balances scholarly rigor with mentoring diverse students across undergraduate and graduate programs.

Professors typically create curricula that reflect current industry trends and regulatory changes, while leading impactful research projects. They also supervise graduate theses and serve on academic committees, ensuring their role advances both education quality and accounting scholarship.

The center offers resources like summer research funding and moving allowances, supporting faculty’s scholarly activities and transitions. Additionally, administrative supplements and endowments are available to tenured professors, promoting sustained academic growth and community engagement.

UW Tacoma Keybank emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world applications, leveraging partnerships with local giants like Microsoft and Costco. This creates a dynamic, resource-rich teaching atmosphere that blends theory with practical business analytics.

Monthly salaries range from $28,000 to $36,000, aligning with Seattle’s competitive academic market and higher cost of living. This compensation supports attracting top-tier candidates who can contribute to the Foster School’s reputation and research excellence.

While a Ph.D. in accounting or related fields is essential, certifications like CPA or CMA can enhance a candidate’s profile, especially when combined with strong research credentials. Seattle institutions appreciate practical expertise bridging academia and industry standards.

Associate Professors often bear greater leadership responsibilities, including departmental service and mentoring junior faculty, alongside teaching and research. Assistant Professors focus more heavily on establishing their research agenda and developing teaching proficiency.

Success in this role can lead to leadership positions such as department chair or dean, increased research funding, and opportunities to influence accounting standards globally. Many also transition into consultancy roles with Seattle’s top corporations or policy advisory boards.