Objectives: The study aims to measure the role performance and level of satisfaction of teachers working in institutions of higher education.

Methods: A twenty items tool to measure role performance in a five point scale, and twenty five items tool to measure job satisfaction with five point scale were administered to 485 teachers working in institutions of higher education in Vellore district.

Results:  ANOVA test result revealed  that respondents working in institutions of higher education are able to balance work life and home life. The respondents were had a sense of belonging at work, and   are not recognized by the institution where they are working. The relationship with management is found to be different with type of institution respondent’s work. Factor analysis identified four variables in the factor Work Environment (JS1) Feeling Safe in the Work environment, (JS2) Cordial relationship with Immediate Supervisor, (JS3) Cordial relationship with co- workers, (JS4) The Work itself is challenging, and  four variables   in the factor Career Development (JS9 ) variety of work is present (JS22) Paid training and reimbursement for workshop programs are encouraged (JS23) career  advancement opportunities offered, (JS25) Networking is encouraged were found to be the major factors influencing job satisfaction among respondents.

Conclusion : The study revealed that employees are not recognized by the institution where they are working. The relationship with management is found to be different with type of institution respondent’s work. With regard to job satisfaction the factors  work environment and  career development were found to be the major factors influencing job satisfaction.

KEYWORDS: role performance, job satisfaction, higher education, personal commitment, work environment