Predictors of Instructors’ Job Satisfaction: Implication for Supervisors and Communication Managers of First-Generation Universities in Ethiopia

Abstract

Job satisfaction (JS) is a crucial variable in public relations (PR) research, essential for enhancing teaching, research, community service, and retaining university instructors. However, JS has become a significant issue among academic staff in Ethiopian universities. First Generation Universities (FGUs) must address instructors’ JS to succeed in these areas. This study aimed to identify unique predictors of overall JS within FGUs. It randomly selected Jimma University, Hawassa University, and the University of Gondar from eight FGUs, involving 600 instructors chosen through a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics (mean and SD) and parametric tests (One-way ANOVA and multiple regressions). Results showed that female instructors, individuals from the Oromiyaa region, those working at Jimma University, those of Oromo ethnicity, and those with over 20 years of experience positively influenced JS. Pearson correlation analysis found a linear positive correlation between JS and four predictor variables. Stepwise regression identified perceived internal university image (UI), communication source satisfaction (CSS), intention to stay (IS), and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) as unique predictors of JS, explaining 62.8% of its variance. CSS partially mediated OCB and JS. The study recommends that management and PR communication managers focus on these factors to effectively address faculty JS issues.