In this survey-based study, an attempt was made to trace changes in the characteristics of newly-employed, full-time faculty in public California community colleges over a seven-year period. Demographic data, including age, sex, residence, highest degree held, and most recent professional experience of new faculty were collected from all public and private community colleges in California. Selected Deans of Instruction were subsequently asked to give their interpretations of the implications of these characteristics. Results of the survey indicated an increase in the number of new faculty holding doctoral degrees, although fewer new faculty were coming directly from graduate school, and an increase in the number of new faculty with less than master's degrees, due to changing student demands for instructors drawn from the real world of work. An increase in the number of women being selected for employment indicates the growing success of affirmative action programs. The average age of new faculty showed a decrease. This study produced evidence of needs for increased funding for pre-service and staff development programs, higher faculty salaries, and increased funding for facilities in order to meet changing student demands for curricula and availability of classes. Survey instruments and a bibliography are appended. (JDS)