Click here to see the job of the week
%20PNG.png)
Education
Steps to Begin Exploring a Job in PA Education
Almost all PA programs are seeking preceptors for core and elective rotations. Education is not just in the classroom! Consider precepting and/ or PA student mentorship.
Learn more about working as a preceptor with a PA program (source: PAEA).
Consider joining the PA Education Association (PAEA) as an independent member (if not yet affiliated with a PA program).
Many resources, especially for new educators, are available online and in-person through PAEA.
Research the PA programs and institutions nearby to understand their timeline, curriculum, current faculty, current student body, and policies.
Most programs allow for hiring of adjunct faculty (hourly versus partial full-time equivalent (FTE) role).
Reach out to your nearby programs! PA programs need much more than lecturers; consider getting involved with skills labs, grading standardized patient scenarios and/ or objective clinical skills examinations (OSCEs), admissions, and/ or case-based classroom discussions.
Advertise your skill set. If you have given lectures on specific topics, let the PA program know!
Have your CV prepared. Most programs require documentation of a CV and active licensure for any guest or paid faculty.
Understand the nuances of academic promotion. Most PA programs will hire new faculty to a rank of clinical instructor or assistant professor. Promotion is often standardized based on time spent teaching, scholarship, institutional and professional service, and other documented achievements.
How to Look for Jobs
Finding a job in PA education can be a catch-22. Many programs are hiring, but open positions may be buried in job listings. Some programs may hire quickly, and some may take months to hire (and it may be a red flag if a position hasn't been filled for several months).
Check the job postings at your desired institutions often, using the search terms above. You may not be looking for a position as a director or full professor if it's your first job as an educator; however, your cover letter may clarify what you can do, and you may still be a good fit.
The PAEA Job Board is another fairly comprehensive guide to all active and open faculty positions. Consider also reviewing postings to your state AAPA branch.
Jobs for physician assistants in higher education are also posted on HigherEd Jobs.
Search Terms for Jobs in PA education
Assistant professor, clinical assistant professor, clinical instructor, didactic education, clinical education, faculty, adjunct faculty, academic coordinator
PA Job Types
Lecturer
Clinical Instructor
Faculty
Adjunct Faculty
Didactic Faculty
Assistant Professor
Associate Professor
Clinical Assistant Professor
Clinical Associate Professor
Director of Didactic Education
Director of Preclinical Education
Director of Clinical Education
Program Director
Preceptor
CME Opportunities
Harvard Macy Institute: Program for Educators in Health Professions - Fall 2025 (Apply by May 12)
Harvard Macy Institute: Leading Innovation in Health Care and Education - June 2025
PA Education Fellowships
Interested in learning more about a career as PA faculty and want to advance your skill set from clinician to clinician educator? Consider searching for fellowships for PA educators, such as the Physician Assistant Leadership and Learning Academy (PALLA).