Open Rank Local Government Finance

About the job

Be a Tar Heel!

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The School of Government at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill works to improve the lives of North Carolinians by engaging in practical scholarship that helps public officials and citizens understand and improve state and local government. As the largest university-based local government training, advisory, and research organization in the United States, the School of Government offers up to 300 courses, webinars, and specialized conferences for more than 14,000 public officials each year. In addition, faculty members annually publish approximately 50 books, manuals, reports, articles, bulletins, and other print and online content related to state and local government. The School is also home to a nationally ranked graduate program in public administration and an undergraduate Law, Government, & Public Service Minor.

For more information about the School, visit sog.unc.edu.

Position Summary

The School of Government seeks to recruit a tenure-track or tenured faculty member at the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor who will specialize in local government finance and budgeting. The selected candidate will advise, educate, and produce practical scholarship concerning public finance and budgeting, with a particular focus on capital budgeting, capital finance markets, and investments. Related research and teaching topics will include the North Carolina local government budget process and financial condition analysis. Examples of existing School of Government public finance teaching for public officials are programs such as Budgeting for Local Governments and Introduction to Local Government Finance.

This faculty line will advance the School of Government’s commitment to applied and engaged scholarship, making a meaningful impact to both the scholarship and practice of local government budgeting. This position will have an unparalleled opportunity for access and engagement with local government professionals and elected officials. The selected candidate will develop, administer and instruct in a range of courses designed for both in-service professionals and traditional university students including those in the School’s highly ranked MPA program. The selected candidate will be actively engaged in service to and governance of that MPA program.

The School seeks a scholar who will be recognized as a thought leader in the field of public finance, advancing knowledge through a sustained program of high-quality, peer-reviewed research while translating that scholarship into practical guidance for public officials.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Doctorate in public administration, public policy, public affairs, or a related field. Commitment to public service, ability to work effectively with diverse audiences and a record of, or demonstrated potential for, practically focused and engaged teaching, service, and scholarship.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

Demonstrated ability to provide direct support to local government leaders and to pursue rigorous research to advance the field of public administration.

Special Instructions

Interested applicants can apply starting in November 2026 and review of applications will begin January 4, 2027. Please contact Whitney Afonso (afonso@sog.unc.edu) with any questions.

Academic Personnel Office Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University’s Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost office at (919)-962-1091 or send an email to facultyrecruitment@unc.edu.

Please note: The Executive Vice Chancellor & Provost office will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

If you have any questions about the job requirements or the hiring department notify the Department Contact.