Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering (2 positions)

Union College invites applications for the position of assistant professor of mechanical engineering (tenure-track), beginning September 1, 2027. There are two positions open: one in system dynamics, controls, and automation and another in thermal-fluid sciences. Review of applications will begin on November 30, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. Applications received by December 7, 2026 will receive priority consideration.

Position description:

The first position is focused in the area of system dynamics, controls, and automation. The successful candidate will teach and develop content for a range of undergraduate courses and laboratories in this area, including dynamics of physical systems and mechatronics.  Additionally, preference will be given to candidates able to teach a wide range of courses including solid mechanics courses, candidates able to teach courses with communication, writing, and programming components, and candidates with industry experience.

The second position is focused in the area of thermal-fluid sciences. The successful candidate will teach and develop content for a range of undergraduate courses and laboratories in this area, including design of thermal/fluid systems. Additionally, preference will be given to candidates with expertise in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), candidates able to teach courses with communication, writing, and programming components, and candidates with industry experience.

Candidates must demonstrate excellence in teaching and conduct high-quality, peer-reviewed research that involves undergraduate students. Additionally, Union strongly values its liberal arts tradition, and candidates who are willing and able to teach to the broader campus community are encouraged to apply. A Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (or closely related field) is preferred, but applicants near completion of their Ph.D. will also be considered. Increasing diversity on campus is a key objective of this hire and a top priority for Union, one that is integral to our mission of preparing students for a globally interconnected world. We strongly encourage applications from members of groups traditionally underrepresented in the field.

About the Mechanical Engineering Department :

Union College’s engineering programs are nationally ranked. The mechanical engineering program emphasizes close student-faculty interactions in small class settings, hands-on laboratory experiences and team-based design and build projects at every class level.  With significant College support for research, our faculty members are teacher-scholars who obtain competitive grants, publish in high impact journals, present at national and international conferences and involve undergraduate students in research at the deepest levels.

Application instructions:

Please submit these application materials in the following order as a single pdf file:

- cover letter that clearly indicates which position you are applying for
- curriculum vitae
- teaching statement (maximum 3 pages) reflecting your teaching philosophy and experience and providing information on how you can contribute to the diversity of educational experiences and offerings and engage with students with diverse skills or backgrounds, including examples of your participation in specific activities
- research statement (maximum 3 pages) including how you will conduct your research at an undergraduate institution and meaningfully include undergraduates in that work

Please do not include additional materials; only the materials listed above will be considered.

Please send questions and other inquiries to Ann Anderson at [email protected]. Applicants invited to the first round of interviews will receive a request for the contact information for three professional references who can speak to their abilities in teaching, conducting research and/or mentoring undergraduate students.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this position is $93,000-$96,000.   Except for roles with a set rate of pay, the wage/salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The stated hiring rate/range represents the College’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the rate/range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Location: Schenectady, NY

We offer exceptional benefits including:

- Healthcare: Medical (PPO & HDHP), Dental, and Vision Insurance (Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Accounts)
- Free On-Campus Fitness Facility Access and Discounts for On-Campus Wellness Programs
- Pre and Post Tax participation in a 403(b) Retirement Plan
- Salary Continuation Program in the event of Disability
- Tuition Exchange

Background Checks: In accordance with our background check policy , finalists for hire will undergo a background check that includes education, employment, and criminal convictions.

E-Verify Participation:  Union College participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify and your Right to Work (Derecho a Trabajar) .