UCSB PaCE Part-Time Instructor - Legal & Paralegal

The Department of Professional and Continuing Education (PaCE) at the University of California, Santa Barbara invites applications for a pool of qualified temporary, part-time instructors to teach online courses in our Paralegal Studies program for upcoming openings.

This program prepares students and working professionals to develop practical knowledge of legal systems, procedures, and professional practices relevant to paralegal and law-related careers. Courses emphasize applied legal concepts, professional ethics, legal research and writing, and the practical skills required to support legal teams in law firms, government agencies, corporate legal departments, and nonprofit organizations.

We seek instructors who bring current professional experience and subject matter expertise in areas such as:

• Paralegal studies and legal fundamentals
• Litigation procedures and case management
• Legal research, writing, and analysis
• Ethics and professional responsibility
• Business, contract, and employment law
• Criminal or juvenile law
• Real estate law, wills, trusts, and estate planning
• Intellectual property or environmental law
• E-discovery, legal technology, and digital evidence

Ideal candidates are experienced legal practitioners or paralegal professionals who are interested in helping students develop practical knowledge of legal procedures, professional responsibilities, and analytical skills used in modern legal environments.

Instruction may be delivered online or, depending on program needs, in person. Courses may serve students pursuing professional certificates, career advancement, or foundational preparation for law-related careers.

• Prepare and deliver course materials aligned with program learning objectives and current legal practices.
• Design assessments and engaging learning activities that support student learning and the development of practical legal skills.
• Update course content periodically to reflect evolving legal practices, technologies, and program feedback.
• Communicate course expectations, learning objectives, and grading policies clearly to students.
• Respond to student questions and learning needs in a timely and professional manner.
• Employ inclusive and culturally responsive teaching practices that support diverse learners, including students with documented accommodations.
• Incorporate practical legal examples, case materials, or professional scenarios to help students understand how legal concepts are applied in real-world practice.
• Evaluate student performance and assign grades based on established learning outcomes.
• Submit final grades within university timelines and address student inquiries regarding course evaluation as needed.
• Maintain student records in accordance with University policies.
• Maintain course materials, assessments, and instructional practices consistent with program standards and recognized guidelines for paralegal education.

The posting will remain open until March 31, 2027 to accommodate department needs. The pool will close on March 31, 2027; if you would like to continue to be considered after that time, and the pooled position is advertised again, you will need to submit a new application.

Please note: The use of an instructor pool does not guarantee that an open position exists at the time you are applying. See the review date specified in UC Recruit to learn whether the department is currently reviewing applications for an upcoming opening. If there is no future review date specified, your application may not be considered at this time.

Screening of applicants begins immediately after the Initial Review Date has passed; some appointments may begin as early as the 2026 summer quarter. The number of these temporary, part-time, non-tenure track, academic positions varies from quarter to quarter, depending on the needs of the department. Appointments are offered on a course-by-course basis, and appointment length is based upon course section schedule(s). Appointments may be renewable based on need, funding, and performance.

Department: https://professional.ucsb.edu/

A bachelor's degree in a related field or a minimum of one professional certification in a relevant field.

A minimum of 3 years of professional experience in legal practice, paralegal work, legal research, compliance, or a related field.

Master's degree, JD, or over 5 years of professional legal or paralegal experience.

• 2-4 required (contact information only)

The department will conduct a reference check for the finalist before extending an offer.

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, students and third parties
• APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

Additionally, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs, as may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.