Adjunct Paralegal Instructor

Galveston College is a forward-thinking, public post-secondary institution dedicated to empowering students through accessible, high-quality education. We seek a motivated Paralegal Faculty member who will demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence by delivering rigorous and engaging instruction, developing and refining curriculum, and assessing student learning outcomes. In this role, you will integrate active and technology-enhanced learning strategies, foster a supportive environment for diverse learners, and forge strong community partnerships to enhance the practical application of legal skills. The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative setting, stay current with industry and educational best practices, and actively contribute to the College’s student success initiatives.

Deliver Engaging Instruction

Provide effective, student-centered instruction using a variety of teaching methodologies, including face-to-face, online, and hybrid modalities. Utilize relevant classroom technologies, learning management systems, and educational resources to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

Advise & Support Students
 Assist in the recruitment, retention, and academic advising of students. Offer timely guidance on academic, career, and professional matters, referring students to appropriate campus and community resources as needed.

Manage Internship Program
 Oversee the Co-Op internship program by building relationships with local law firms and agencies to secure paid and unpaid opportunities each semester. Assign students to suitable placements, monitor their progress, and deliver cutting-edge workforce preparation lectures.

Promote Student Success
 Demonstrate a strong commitment to the College’s mission of student success, persistence, and completion. Employ strategies that accommodate diverse learning styles and foster an inclusive, supportive classroom environment.

Curriculum Development & Assessment
 Maintain current knowledge of effective teaching methodologies and continuously refine course content. Collaborate with colleagues to design, implement, and evaluate student learning outcomes, ensuring alignment with academic standards and industry needs.

Professional Collaboration
 Participate in departmental, college-wide, and community events or committees. Work cooperatively with peers to share best practices, review curricula, and support institutional goals.

Education

Associate’s or higher degree in Paralegal or Legal Assistant OR a Juris Doctorate (JD) from an accredited institution.

If applying with a JD, candidates should demonstrate relevant paralegal or legal experience aligned with program needs.

Professional Experience

At least 5 years of non-teaching work experience as a paralegal or attorney (supervising paralegals) in multiple practice areas (e.g., civil litigation, criminal law, family law, real estate).

Demonstrated proficiency in legal research and writing, including practical experience using ProDoc, Westlaw, or comparable legal research/document automation platforms.

Technical Skills

Working knowledge of standard office software and a willingness to adapt to new educational technologies and tools.

Familiarity with or willingness to learn the Canvas learning management system (LMS) or other LMS platforms.

Communication & Teaching Skills

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to tailor communication to diverse audiences.

Proven ability to incorporate various teaching methodologies and effectively mentor students.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

Legal Expertise

Substantial experience in multiple legal areas, with the flexibility to teach and develop course materials for a variety of paralegal-related subjects.

Commitment to staying current on legal trends, procedures, and best practices through ongoing professional development.

Instructional Effectiveness

Demonstrated skill in integrating interactive teaching methods and leveraging technology to enhance student engagement.

Ability to design and implement measurable learning outcomes, assess student progress, and refine instruction to support student success.

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

Willingness to work with colleagues to review and select course-related materials and to continuously improve curriculum and teaching methods.

Openness to providing input on departmental initiatives and collaborating with other faculty, staff, and community partners to strengthen the program.

Student Engagement & Support

Experience advising students in academic or professional matters, referring them to appropriate resources as needed.

Enthusiasm for recruiting and retaining students, including fostering strong connections with local employers to enhance internship and employment opportunities.

Preferences

Juris Doctorate (JD) from an accredited institution.

Membership in the American Bar Association (ABA).

Teaching experience, especially in a community college setting with a diverse student population.

Proven success in online or hybrid course delivery, showcasing an ability to adapt to various learning environments.

Familiarity with—or willingness to adopt—best practices for online learning, including the use of Canvas or other LMS platforms.

Work is performed in a classroom, office, lab, and/or clinical setting; no unusual circumstances.

Special Requirements

Subject to a criminal background check prior to employment.