The work of a professor is centred around teaching and publishing research. Usually a professor will have studied extensively, completed a PhD and served for some time as an assistant professor and an associate professor. They will be senior in their university department.
To be promoted to the level of professor, it is necessary for the title holder to have proven their worth to their department in terms of teaching and research. Depending on the institution and the field worked in, more emphasis might be placed on one over the other. Such a promotion is judged by colleagues and acclaimed academics.
Those that rise to the level of professor will usually have tenure at the university they word at. They need to conduct at least two different classes each semester, teaching relatively few hours but mentoring students outside of class hours. Research must be conducted and regularly published. The title holder will have to keep abreast of developments in their chosen field.
Arguably the most important quality needed is passion about the subject being taught. Salaries vary, but are usually between C
$65,000 and C
$105,000.