Faculty members’ views on rewards, compensation and rank: implications for job satisfaction

Abstract

Faculty satisfaction is a critical determinant of teaching quality, retention, and institutional performance in higher education. This study examined the perceptions of faculty members at the College of Education, NEUST San Isidro Campus, regarding compensation, rewards, academic rank, and employment status, and how these factors influenced overall job satisfaction. Using a descriptive-correlational research design, data were collected from 30 faculty members across ranks and employment types through a structured questionnaire. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression, while qualitative data from open-ended questions underwent thematic analysis. Findings revealed high faculty satisfaction across all variables, with employment status rated highest, followed by rewards and compensation. Regression results indicated that compensation, rewards, and employment status significantly predicted overall job satisfaction, whereas rank had a smaller, non-significant effect. The study highlights the importance of financial and non-financial incentives, job security, and recognition in fostering faculty motivation, engagement, and institutional commitment. Based on these results, institutional policies should focus on strengthening reward systems, maintaining competitive compensation, and supporting stable employment arrangements to sustain a motivated and high-performing academic workforce.