Job Summary

Join the Future of Mechanical Engineering at Illinois State University!
The Department of Mechanical Engineering invites applications for multiple open rank tenure-track/tenured positions.

We seek candidates who are highly qualified and motivated to teach labs and courses, help shape the department's future and contribute to ISU's legacy of innovation, collaborate with industry leaders and work on real-world projects, preparing students for the dynamic field of mechanical engineering.

A successful candidate will also be expected to develop a cross-functional mechanical engineering curriculum that integrates hands-on experience through various labs in robotics, materials, kinematics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics as well as a design studio for capstone projects in collaboration with the local industry. This curriculum should incorporate a pedagogical approach that fosters active learning, high student engagement, teamwork, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Additional Information

Our new College of Engineering is seeking founding faculty members to join us in building the Department of Mechanical Engineering from the ground up. Our mission is to provide a transformative educational experience that equips students with the skills, knowledge, and ethical values needed to excel in the world of mechanical engineering. As a faculty member, you will play a pivotal role in teaching, mentoring, and preparing students for real-world challenges, including energy, sustainability, robotics, automation, machine design, and manufacturing. Therefore, this is a once-in-a-career opportunity to shape the future of an entire department and a chance to contribute to ISU's legacy of innovation and academic excellence.

Illinois State University, IllinoisState.edu, was founded in 1857 as Illinois’ first public university. We enroll approximately 21,000 students in six colleges. Our new strategic plan, Excellence by Design: 2024-2029, lists our seven core values: Excellence in Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship; Individualized Attention; Equity, Diversity, Access, and Belonging; Collaboration; Community and Civic Engagement; Respect; and Integrity. By acting on these values, we create a learning environment that results in our university being the first-choice public university in Illinois for high-achieving, motivated students who seek an individualized educational experience combined with the resources of a large university. At ISU, we are committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Open to dual career possibilities to support enhancing professional and personal growth of the faculty. Learn more about Illinois State’s Metrics of Excellence at IllinoisState.edu/PointsofPride.

Bloomington-Normal: Illinois State University is located in the growing twin cities of Bloomington and Normal, with a metro population of approximately 172,000. The community is also home to Illinois Wesleyan University, Heartland Community College, St. Joseph Medical Center, Carle BroMenn Medical Center, COUNTRY Financial, State Farm Insurance’s International Headquarters, Central Illinois Regional Airport, and electric truck manufacturer Rivian Motors. The community has distinguished itself for its outstanding school systems, and its citizens’ high level of educational attainment, as well as its parks and recreation, health care, vibrant fine arts scene, job growth, economic opportunity, historic sites, and low crime rates. Bloomington made Livability’s top 100 Best Places to Live (2024) and ranked No. 3 on College Values Online’s list of Best Small College Towns in America (2024). Bloomington-Normal is conveniently located about three hours from Indianapolis; two hours from both Chicago and St. Louis; and an hour from Peoria, Champaign-Urbana, Decatur, and Springfield. Many of these locations are accessible from Bloomington-Normal via Amtrak, which is located one block from Illinois State’s campus. For more information on our community, visit visitbn.org.

Required Qualifications

1) PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Education or closely related field.
2) BSc and MSc in Mechanical Engineering.
3) Experience in teaching labs, experimentation, experiential learning, curriculum.
4) Strong commitment to teaching excellence, innovative research, promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
5) State law mandates demonstrable oral proficiency in the English language as a requirement for this position.

Preferred Qualifications

For senior ranks, established externally funded research record is desired.

Work Hours

Varies

Proposed Starting Date

January 2025-August 2025

Required Applicant Documents

1) CV
2) Cover letter
3) Statement of purpose addressing teaching, research, service, and commitment to diversity and inclusion
4) List of contact information for five references

Please Note: These documents are required to be submitted online in order to complete the application process. Please have these documents ready prior to clicking on "Apply"

Special Instructions for Applicants

Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled.

• EEO/AA Policy

  Illinois State University, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding affirmative action, nondiscrimination, and anti-harassment. Illinois State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, order of protection, gender identity and expression, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, genetic information, unfavorable military discharge, or status as a veteran in employment, educational programs and activities, or admissions. Inquiries or complaints may be addressed by contacting the director of the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access by email at EqualOpportunity@IllinoisState.edu, by calling (309) 438-3383, or by mail at Illinois State University, Campus Box 1280, Normal, IL 61790.