Job Details

Overview

Mechanical Engineering Assistant Professor - Tenure Track Mechanical Engineering Faculty - AY 26/27

The Mechanical Engineering Department in the College of Engineering at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California (Cal Poly) invites applications for a full-time, academic year, tenure-track faculty position at the Assistant Professor rank beginning Fall 2026.

Cal Poly emphasizes a Learn by Doing philosophy and the teacher-scholar model. The successful candidate will teach in the thermo-fluids or mechanics stem, teach a variety of courses for undergraduate and graduate students, advise students, participate in university service, and conduct applied research in mechanical engineering. Areas of specialization may include biomechanics, heat transfer, energy systems, or fracture mechanics, and candidates are expected to teach in the wider area around their specialization.

The department notes that there are additional searches in Mechatronics and Mechanical System Design (Job No. 550311 and 550308) and invites candidates to view those postings at the official Cal Poly jobs site.

Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. Anticipated hiring range: $106,000 $117,000 per year. Qualified candidates with industry experience are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Teach a variety of courses within the mechanical engineering curriculum in classroom and laboratory settings (e.g., thermo-fluids stem or mechanics stem).
• Advise undergraduate and graduate students.
• Engage in university service activities.
• Conduct applied or fundamental research in mechanical engineering related to the candidates area of focus.
• Participate in outcomes assessment and Learn by Doing initiatives.
• Collaborate with colleagues and contribute to a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

Required Qualifications

• Earned doctorate (Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field from an accredited institution or international equivalent (ABD considered with proof of degree completion prior to start).
• Demonstrated excellence in teaching, strong communication and interpersonal skills, and ability to work effectively with students, staff, and faculty.
• Ability to develop externally funded, applied research programs involving undergraduate and graduate students, with partnerships to key stakeholders.
• Commitment to hands-on, student-centered learning, collaboration across disciplines, and excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• This search focuses on either the thermo-fluids or mechanics stem; successful candidates will teach courses to undergrad and graduate students and engage in advising, service, and research.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated excellence in university-level teaching and research (as appropriate to time since degree).
• Experience with laboratory-based instruction and/or industry experience.
• Experience working with diverse populations and fostering an inclusive environment.
• Willingness to teach in multiple areas of the undergraduate and graduate curriculum.
• Additional emphasis areas include: excellence in teaching/research, active engagement in scholarship and professional development, strong industry knowledge, and laboratory-based instruction.

Special Conditions

The position is designated a mandated reporter under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and requires compliance with CSU Executive Order 1083. A background check (including criminal records) is required after a conditional offer. Note on visa sponsorship: Cal Poly cannot guarantee sponsorship; applicants should not expect sponsorship.

How to Apply

To apply, complete the required online faculty application and attach: (1) cover letter detailing qualifications and interest; (2) current CV; (3) statement of goals and plans for research; (4) unofficial transcripts; (5) Universal Student Success Statement.

Prompt: Cal Poly is a public, student-centered university with a strong emphasis on the teacher-scholar model. Detail your approach to teaching and learning at the collegiate level, including inclusive and accessible teaching, with how you will develop this at Cal Poly. Service or scholarship related to these areas may be included here.

Please provide three professional references with names and emails when completing the online application. Finalists must provide three letters of reference. Official transcripts will be required prior to appointment.

Cal Polys ability to sponsor employment-based visas depends on priorities and regulations. Cal Poly does not commit to visa sponsorship for this position.

For full consideration, apply by the Review Begin Date, December 1. Applications received after this date may be considered.

For questions, contact Dr. Kim Shollenberger, Chair of the Search Committee, at the email ...@calpoly.edu.