Dr. Jones assumed the presidency of Texas A&M University-Commerce in July 2008. Prior to that, he served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Texas A&M International University in Laredo, Texas, from 2003-2008. Academically, his rank is Professor of English.

Dr. Jones served in several capacities at the University of Houston-Downtown from 1985 to 2002, including dean (University College), interim dean (Student Affairs), associate dean (College of Humanities and Social Sciences), acting chair and assistant chair (Department of English). He also served as an instructor and student publications advisor at Casper College in Wyoming from 1982-1985.