Assistant Professor of Geotechnical Engineering; AY

Overview

Assistant Professor of Geotechnical Engineering (AY 26/27) – The Civil and Environmental 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.

Central California — San Luis Obispo

Unit 3 - CFA - California Faculty Association, Tenured/Tenure-Track, Full Time, Faculty - Engineering

Assistant Professor of Geotechnical Engineering (AY 26/27)

Apply now Job no: 550935

• Teaching undergraduate lecture courses and laboratories in civil engineering and geotechnical engineering.
• Teaching graduate courses and laboratories in geotechnical engineering and in areas of expertise.
• Supervising undergraduate and graduate-level research.
• Developing and maintaining externally-funded research.
• Engaging in service activities including student advising, curriculum development, and shared governance.

An earned doctorate (Ph.D.) in Geotechnical Engineering, or a closely related field from an accredited institution or international equivalent is required for appointment. Candidates nearing completion of the doctorate (ABD) will be considered but must provide proof that the doctorate was awarded prior to or by the start of the appointment.

The successful candidate will demonstrate excellence in teaching, effective communication, and interpersonal skills and must have the ability to work effectively with students, staff and faculty from diverse backgrounds. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to develop an externally funded, applied research program involving undergraduate and graduate students, and partnerships with key stakeholders. Demonstrated experience and commitment to hands-on, student-centered learning and teaching, as well as the ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary settings, are required.

Excellent written and oral communication skills and strong interests in undergraduate and graduate teaching are required. Proficiency in written and oral use of the English language is required.

Preference will be given to candidates with demonstrated excellence in university-level teaching and research (commensurate with time since degree), experience with field- and/or laboratory-based instruction, experience with high-impact educational practices, and/or industry experience in geotechnical engineering. Experience working with diverse populations and fostering a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive environment is preferred.

Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. Anticipated hiring range: $106,000 – $117,000 per year.

The College of Engineering at Cal Poly is committed to building a faculty of teacher-scholars who collaborate to provide a multi-disciplinary and hands-on approach to inclusive excellence in student learning and applied research. Cal Poly emphasizes Learn by Doing, which involves extensive lab work and projects in support of theoretical knowledge.

The Civil & Environmental Engineering Department has two B.S. degree programs with ABET accreditation and offers an M.S. degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering. For more information, please visithttps://ceenve.calpoly.edu/.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT

This position is open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Cal Poly provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on protected characteristics and adheres to applicable laws and CSU policies.

The position is subject to a background check and other pre-employment requirements. Cal Poly is a smoke & tobacco-free campus. CSU Out-of-State Employment Policy applies as appropriate.

To apply, please submit: (1) cover letter detailing qualifications and interest; (2) current CV; (3) Universal Student Success Statement; (4) statement of goals and plans for research; (5) copy of unofficial transcripts. Include evidence of inclusive teaching practices and approaches to accessible, student-centered learning. Provide three professional references with contact information. Finalists will be asked to provide three letters of reference and official transcripts prior to appointment.

For full consideration, apply by the Review Begin Date:
November 1, 2025. Applications received after this date may be considered.

For questions, please contact Robb Moss via rmoss.

Advertised: September 25, 2025

Applications close: Please refer to the posting for closing date.

Full-time, tenure-track faculty position in Geotechnical Engineering.