Lecturer - Illustration

About the University of Colorado - Denver 

Millions of moments start at CU Denver, a place where innovation, research, and learning meet in the heart of a global city. We’re the state’s premier public urban research university with more than 100 in-demand, top-ranked bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. We partner with diverse learners—at any stage of their life and career—for transformative educational experiences. Across seven schools and colleges, our leading faculty inspires and works alongside students to solve complex challenges and produce impactful creative work. As part of the state’s largest university system, CU Denver is a major contributor to the Colorado economy, with 2,000 employees and an annual economic impact of $800 million. To learn more about how CU Denver helps learners meet their moment, visit ucdenver.edu. 

Job Description

*Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers*

At the College of Arts & Media (CAM), we empower a diverse community of makers, scholars, and innovators to thrive in the rapidly evolving creative industries. Through a dynamic blend of critical inquiry, creative exploration, and real-world engagement, CAM prepares students for lives filled with opportunity, meaning, and purpose. Rooted in community and driven by a spirit of intellectual and artistic freedom, CAM embraces risk-takers, visionaries, and cultural disruptors by providing access to cutting-edge technology, global perspectives, and a nurturing environment where bold ideas flourish. CAM offers top-ranked degrees and programs in Film & Television, Media Forensics, Music & Entertainment, and Visual Arts.

In Visual Arts at CU Denver, the city becomes our canvas, industry leaders become professors and a passion becomes a profession. We do our best work designing in a digital lab or putting paint to canvas in a studio. Our students have access to state-of-the art digital labs, sculpture studios, industrial equipment and darkrooms. They find opportunities at the Denver Art Museum, in galleries across the Front Range and at digital studios like Pixar. That’s how the College of Arts & Media unites the ability to create with the means to succeed.

Illustration at CU Denver has been recognized by Animation Career Review as a top national program. Traditional, conceptual, and technology-based education combine for dynamic course work that includes Image Making, Digital Illustration, Print Media, Investigative Methods, Digital Painting, Graphic Novel Workshop, Business of Art, and Typography. Illustration faculty prepare students for passionate successful careers in visual art, design, and illustration.

Lecturer appointments are at-will and teaching assignments are determined on a semester by semester basis. Teaching assignments may fluctuate and are contingent upon the schedule of courses offered each term. 

Lecturer - Illustration

What you will do: 

100% Teaching

• Teaching Load: You will teach one or two classes per semester (3-6 credit hours)
• Instruction: Your focus will include one or more of the following areas- Illustration I: Image Making, Illustration II: Digital Media, Illustration III: Investigative Methods, Illustration IV: Thesis Development, Illustration V: BFA Thesis, Drawing 1, Life Drawing 1, Printed Image, Life Drawing 2: Portraiture & Anatomy, Life Painting and Drawing, Painting I, Media of Drawing, Drawing for Story, Digital Painting, Graphic Novel, Concept Art, Business of Art

Qualifications you already possess (Minimum Qualifications)

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

• BFA in Illustration, Animation, Games or a related field.

Preferred Qualification to possess (Preferred Qualifications)

• MFA in Illustration.
• Three (3) years professional experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong drawing & painting skills including perspective & anatomy.
• Expertise in a specialization like Children’s Books, Comics, Concept Art, Animation, Game Art, Tattooing or similar.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills across multiple teaching modalities.
• Demonstrated history of building and maintaining effective working relationships with colleagues, students, and community partners representing a wide range of perspectives.
• Ability to work autonomously, taking initiative on tasks, and meeting deadlines.
• Outwardly contribute to a respectful, positive, and professional workspace.
• Interest in emerging trends and technologies in illustration education and practice.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

The University will provide reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at workplaceengagement@ucdenver.edu. 

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established at $5,371.19 per 3 credit course.   

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training.The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

This position is not eligible for overtime compensation.

This position is not eligible for benefits.

Application Deadline

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, and interviews begin. Preference will be given to complete applications received by October 14, 2026. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.

Required Application Materials:

To apply, please visit: http://www.cu.edu/cu-careers and attach:

1. Letter of application specifically addressing the position requirements and outlining qualifications
2. Current CV or résumé

Questions should be directed to charles.valsechi@ucdenver.edu.

Background Check Policy

The University of Colorado Denver strives to maintain a safe and productive educational, clinical, research and employment environment. All prospective employees and current employees must, therefore, consent to and pass background checks prior to any final appointment/employment.

Qualifications

Special Instructions to Applicants: Required Application Materials: To apply, please visit: http://www.cu.edu/cu-careers and attach: 1.    Letter of application specifically addressing the position requirements and outlining qualifications 2.    Current CV or résumé Questions should be directed to charles.valsechi@ucdenver.edu.    

Application Materials Required: Cover Letter, Resume/CV, List of References 

Application Materials Instructions: Application Deadline Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, and interviews begin. Preference will be given to complete applications received by October 14, 2026. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.