Assistant​/Associate Professor - Mechanical Engineering, Machine Design

Assistant/Associate Professor – Mechanical Engineering, Machine Design

#150797

• Posting Number: FAC
  881P
• Quick Link for Internal Postings: /32647
• Classification
  
  Title:
  
  Assistant Professor
• Working Title: Assistant/Associate Professor - Mechanical Engineering, Machine Design - #150797
• Department: School of Engineering & Technology

Western Carolina University (WCU) is a highly ranked public institution known for its engineering and engineering technology programs. WCU offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision insurance, retirement plan, tuition waivers, and paid holidays. The university is committed to inclusive excellence and provides a welcoming and supportive community.

WCU is seeking faculty candidates in mechanical engineering or a related discipline with expertise in Machine Design. The primary location of this position is the main campus in Cullowhee, NC. This opening is a nine‑month, tenure/tenure‑track position focused on Machine Design and related topics. The anticipated start date is August 2026. Successful candidates will be committed to teaching, scholarship, and professional service.

Applied research that engages students, especially undergraduate students, is a hallmark of our program. Candidates routinely teach in multiple topical areas at undergraduate and graduate levels and are expected to support the University’s external engagement mission.

• A PhD or equivalent terminal degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline, prior to the starting date of August 1, 2026.

• Three years of relevant industry experience.
• Professional engineering licensure and registration.
• Research experience, funded grants, refereed publications, and undergraduate and graduate student supervision.

Permanent Full‑Time

01/09/2026

Yes

Application materials must be submitted online. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until a candidate has been selected for hire.

Please include the following:

For questions or additional information please contact Wes Stone

* All applicants are required to submit an unofficial transcript of their highest attained degree, showing all completed coursework and the date the degree was conferred. The transcript must state Degree Awarded, Degree Conferred or a similar phrase. For candidates who are ABD, please submit your most recent doctoral program transcript along with your master’s degree transcript, if you hold such a degree.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Western Carolina University uses E‑Verify to confirm employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Proper documentation of identity and employability are required at the time of employment.

All new employees are required to have listed credentials/degrees verified within 30 days of employment. All new employees who will be teaching are required to provide official transcripts within 30 days of employment. Transcripts should be provided for the highest earned degree and/or the degree which is being used to satisfy credential/qualification requirements.

Western Carolina University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, political affiliation, National Guard or veteran status, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations, and policies, and the policies of The University of North Carolina.

Persons with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process please contact (828) 227‑7218 or email .

The Western Carolina University Annual Safety Report is available online at University Annual Safety Report or in hard‑copy by request at the office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, 227 HFR Administration Building, Cullowhee, NC 28723 (828‑227‑7147) or the Office of University Police, 111 Camp Annex, Cullowhee, NC 28723 (828‑227‑7301).

• Cover Letter/Letter of Application
• Curriculum Vitae
• Teaching Philosophy
• Research Statement
• Unofficial Transcripts
• List of References