Hiring for faculty position in Practical Theology

Monday, January 4, 2016

Position Description

Conrad Grebel University College at the University of Waterloo invites applications for a full-time definite-term faculty position in Practical Theology.  The position relates primarily to the Master of Theological Studies (MTS) program.  It entails teaching, supervising students in ministry settings, and coordinating the Applied Studies option of the MTS. Persons from all specializations are encouraged to apply; applicants with research expertise in Spirituality and Aging may be eligible for connection to the University of Waterloo’s Research Institute for Aging (RIA).  The appointment is anticipated to begin on July 1, 2016 at the Lecturer or Assistant Professor level.  Review of applications will begin February 1, 2016, and will continue until the position is filled. The College is committed to employment equity and welcomes applications from all qualified persons.  Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

Position Profile

1. Teach a range of courses in the MTS program, including courses required for the Applied Studies option, electives in areas of specialization, and the Supervised Experience in Ministry (practicum) courses.

2. Coordinate the Applied Studies option of the MTS program which includes developing curriculum, advising and mentoring students, and establishing practicum sites.  It may also include overseeing the recruitment of MTS students.

3. Develop and maintain a program of scholarly and professional research, presentation, and publication, in ways that contribute to the advancement of the discipline within relevant constituencies, giving particular attention to the resourcing and shaping of other ministry professionals.  The successful candidate will relate closely to Mennonite Church Eastern Canada.

4. Participation in the shared collegial administrative duties within Conrad Grebel University College.

Qualifications 

Requirements

  • a completed or nearly completed earned doctorate (Ph.D., Th.D., or D.Min.) in practical theology or related field
  • expertise in a particular area such as Spirituality and Aging, Pastoral Theology, Pastoral Care and Counselling, Christian Formation, Christian Spirituality, Preaching and Communication, Worship, Life Stage Ministry, Christian Education, or Leadership
  • at least five years of ministry experience
  • demonstrated excellence in teaching  and ability to connect effectively with students
  • demonstrated capacity for administrative leadership
  • demonstrated ability to serve as a resource person for church and other constituencies on the challenges and opportunities in contemporary Christian ministry
  • demonstrated potential to be regarded by peers as a leading thinker, writer, and practitioner in a field of practical theology
  • demonstrated potential to recruit students into the MTS program
  • an understanding of and commitment to the identity, mission, and core values of Conrad Grebel University College, a Mennonite College at the University of Waterloo

Preferences

  • pastoral experience in a Mennonite congregation
  • ordination as a minister
  • experience supervising students in ministry settings
  • a record of scholarly and professional publication

Instructions and Information for Applicants

1. Required application materials must be submitted in digital format and addressed to the Academic Dean, Conrad Grebel University College, grebeldean@uwaterloo.ca

Review of applications will begin February 1, 2016. These include:

  • An application letter indicating reasons for applying, qualifications, teaching areas, research interests, and how the candidate will contribute to the Master of Theological Studies program and the mission of the College
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Names and contact information of three references

2. All applications will be acknowledged and unsuccessful candidates will be informed as the process proceeds.

3. A short list of candidates will be asked to provide three letters of recommendation and documentation related to teaching, scholarship, and professional work.  These candidates may be contacted for preliminary telephone interviews.

4. Some candidates may be invited to campus in Spring 2016.

5. The College reserves the right not to make a full-time appointment, to fill the position with a part-time appointment, or to extend the application process.

Appointment procedures and conditions

The appointment will be for an initial two-year term, with a further three-year term subject to a successful review of performance, and budgetary approval.  A candidate without a completed doctorate will be appointed at the Lecturer level, and with the degree in hand at the Assistant Professor level.