Assistant Professor in Mechanical Engineering - Mechatronics

San José State University•San Jose, CA

1d•$101,000 - $124,000•Onsite

About The Position

San José State University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor specializing in mechatronics. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering or a closely related engineering field by the time of appointment and demonstrate expertise in one or more areas such as robotics, control systems, automation, physical AI, sensors, embedded systems, or human–machine interfaces. The successful candidate will teach undergraduate and graduate students in classroom and hardware laboratory settings, develop an independent externally funded research program, publish peer-reviewed journal and conference papers, and present at professional conferences. The role also involves contributing to the interdisciplinary strengths, infrastructure, and industry partnerships of SJSU’s mechatronics programs. Candidates should have strong communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills, and demonstrate awareness of and sensitivity to the educational goals of a diverse student population. SJSU Mechanical Engineering offers programs in robotics and mechatronics, advanced manufacturing, thermal and energy systems, and mechanical design, supported by hands-on laboratories and interdisciplinary research. Its location and connections in Silicon Valley provide opportunities for industry partnerships, applied research, and bringing real-world engineering challenges into the classroom. The university emphasizes equity, inclusive learning environments, student success, and connections among faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the communities it serves. The anticipated annual salary range is $101,000–$124,000, commensurate with qualifications, experience, and rank under the CSU Salary Schedule. The target start date is August 1, 2027. The position’s work may only be performed in California and requires an on-campus presence. Employment is contingent on US residence, proof of eligibility to work in the United States, and satisfactory background and reference checks.

Requirements

Ph.D. in mechanical engineering or a closely related engineering field by the time of appointment.
Ability to teach and develop undergraduate and graduate courses in dynamics, robotics, mechatronics, and control systems.
Demonstrated ability to conduct research in mechatronics or a closely related field.
Awareness of and sensitivity to the educational goals of a socially, culturally, and economically diverse student population, demonstrated through cross-cultural study, training, teaching, or comparable experience.
Strong communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.
Eligibility to work in the United States and US residence; the work must be performed in California with an on-campus presence.
Satisfactory completion of background and reference checks.

Nice To Haves

Strong record of peer-reviewed publication.
Experience or demonstrated interest in effective teaching and pedagogical methods.
Experience with extramural research funding proposals.
Experience with industry collaboration, especially related to mechatronics.
Experience supervising undergraduate and/or graduate students.
Experience leading or contributing to interdisciplinary projects in collaborative environments.

Responsibilities

Teach and develop undergraduate and graduate courses in mechatronics and related fields, including course preparation, assessment of learning outcomes, and continuous improvement of instructional methods.
Conduct research, publish results in peer-reviewed venues, pursue external funding, and supervise student research.
Collaborate with SJSU faculty, other universities, and/or industry partners on research and funding opportunities related to robotics, mechatronics, and physical AI.
Participate in shared governance and professional service at the department, college, university, and professional levels.
Organize courses and course materials in a university-supported learning management system and comply with university-mandated accessibility requirements.
Support student success through inclusive course materials, teaching strategies, advising, and mentorship that address students’ diverse backgrounds, abilities, identities, and levels of academic preparation.
Complete required employee training and comply with mandated reporting and other applicable university requirements.