Chair of Mechanical Engineering

Houston Baptist University•Houston, TX

About The Position

Introducing Houston Christian University Houston Christian University, equips students to lead, collaborate, and discover out of a deep sense of purpose and a foundation of Christian liberal arts. We are driven forward by our central confession, Jesus Christ is Lord, and defined by our Ten Pillars 2030 core convictions . From this foundation we guide students confidently into discerning discovery, preparing them to think biblically, critically, and holistically about how to engage the world. We aspire to care for every student by meeting their academic, spiritual, and social needs with mentorship and support. At HCU, we are cultivating a culture of excellence that will mold a new generation of leaders in their communities, standard-setters in their professions, and fruitful disciples in their churches. HCU is set in the heart of one of the most diverse and fastest-growing cities in the nationand our growth and diversity match the dynamism of the city we call home. We continue to enroll strong freshmen classes, our graduate programs have more than doubled in the past decade, and we are significantly expanding our online programs as well. The College of Science and Engineering at HCU The vision of the College of Science and Engineering (COSE) at HCU is to be a world leader in integrating fundamental principles of science, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with historic Christian values and standards to serve God and humanity. In addition to current B.S. programs in Cyber Engineering and Electrical Engineering, and related programs in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Information Systems, HCU will expand its offerings to include Electrical Engineering Technology and Mechanical Engineering. These programs have already or will soon earn ABET accreditation. For additional information: https://hc.edu/science-and-engineering/ Position Summary HCU seeks a founding Chair of Mechanical Engineering, with a start date of Fall 2026. Under the direction of the Dean, the Chair assists in the administration and supervision of faculty, staff, programs, initiatives, and curriculum for one or more disciplines within the College. The Chair is a visionary leader able to provide effective management of the program's resources, recognize and reward excellence, and promote accountability. The Chair will develop and assist with implementation of program, College, and University strategic plans and oversee the recruitment of faculty, the establishment of appropriate labs in newly renovated space, and preparation for ABET accreditation. The Chair effectively communicates with college, faculty and staff as well as establishing strong working relationships with constituencies across campus. The Chair position is an additional administrative appointment that includes both reduction in course load and an additional stipend for administrative work during the summer terms.

Requirements

PhD in Mechanical Engineering
Higher education teaching experience at the undergraduate level

Nice To Haves

Leadership experience in higher education preferred

Responsibilities

Collaborate with Dean and College leadership to set strategic vision for Mechanical Engineering at HCU
Work collaboratively with the Dean to identify and pursue funding opportunities needed to support new Mechanical Engineering Program initiatives
Develop curriculum, degree changes, and catalog updates
Prepare accurate documentation for Academic Affairs Committee
Prepare documentation for ABET accreditation
Review of program assessments per SACSCOC and other accrediting agencies
Select, vet and supervise adjunct faculty
Prepare course schedules and staffing
Directly observe classroom instruction
Provide written evaluation of all full-time and adjunct faculty members teaching within this department on a regular basis with the goal of continuous improvement in teaching and learning
Develop and oversee department syllabi, scope and sequence of courses and course content, including curricular revisions
Review student course evaluations with faculty each semester
Ensure timely submission of student grades from department faculty
Actively participate in scholarly endeavors
Hold regular departmental meetings with faculty in department
Hear student concerns past the instructor level (per university grievance policy)
Attend and participate in campus and College meetings
Pursue the integration of faith-and-learning in and out of the classroom
Ability to represent college enthusiastically and professionally
Ability to work collegially with faculty and staff across several departments and divisions
Be available for some night and weekend programming beyond HCUs standard 8am5pm weekday office hours
Work to further the Universitys mission
Must be able to completely affirm, uphold, and live within the Preamble of Houston Christian University and the Ten Pillars Core Convictions
Exhibit an active Christian faith with local church membership and involvement
Other duties as assigned