Department Chair - Chemistry & Forensic Science

Savannah State University•Savannah, GA

59d•$77,000 - $85,000

About The Position

This position is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the department, evaluating the staff and faculty of the department, maintenance of essential department records, verification of faculty credentials, all tasks that support shaping the department mission and building consensus around department goals, conducting department meetings and implementing long-range department programs, plans, goals, and policies. Reporting to the Dean of the College of Science and Humanities (COSH), this position is essential and a significant member of the COSH leadership team. This position has general administrative responsibility for the affairs of the Department, including successful planning, organization, development, implementation, and direction of all aspects of the Department; providing oversight, assessment, American Chemical Society (ACS) Certification, and development of educational programs; stewarding the resources (fiscal and physical) of the Department; preparation of annual reports and reviews; consensus building; and representing the faculty and students of the Department.

Requirements

An earned doctorate in Chemistry, Forensic Science, or a closely related field is preferred
Five (5) or more years of higher education teaching experience
Demonstrated experience with Chemistry and Forensic Science certification requirements and budget management
Experience with graduate program development
Academic accomplishment consistent with a chair's level appointment, scholarly publications, grant awards, research activity
Experience as an academic program coordinator (or similar role)
Knowledge of curriculum development, conflict resolution, strategic planning, and stewardship of resources (fiscal and physical).
Knowledge of shared governance, faculty/staff development, student development, goal achievement, assessment, and resource development
Knowledge of best practices in the classroom
Knowledge of applications to enhance teaching and learning
Knowledge of computers with preferred experience in Banner
Skilled in oral and written communication
Skill in decision-making and problem-solving
Skill in interpersonal relations and in dealing with the public
Ability to work cordially and collegially with all campus partners, including faculty and students
Ability to manage multiple priorities and function in a project-lead capacity as needed
Ability to contribute to a positive work environment in the department and the University
Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and handle highly sensitive and personal information with sound judgement, tact, and discretion
Ability to follow directives from administration and be flexible in changes to those directions.
Ability to grow enrollment, retain, and graduate students.

Nice To Haves

Experience cultivating industry partnerships, designing career pathways, and developing or managing Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) to support strategic collaboration and workforce development initiatives (preferred)
Prior supervisory experience (preferred)

Responsibilities

Establish a vision and goals for the Department; lead the faculty in the articulation of the vision and goals of the academic unit, with emphasis on the quality of the learning environment.
Provide leadership to achieve the highest possible levels of excellence in instruction, research/creative activities, and service activities of the Department.
Ensure the hire of qualified, student-centered faculty and staff
Manage the coordination and execution of the Department's educational programs with the faculty.
Lead departmental faculty in a regular review of curricular offerings for relevance and new opportunities.
Evaluate departmental part-time and full-time faculty and staff annually.
Maintain records for tenure, promotion, and pre-/post-tenure review.
Manage the department's budget; approve expenditure of funds allocated to the department; ensure that expenditures do not exceed available funds
Lead recruitment efforts (when resources permit) for the replacement or growth of faculty. The chair ensures qualified candidates are recommended to the Dean
Oversee faculty adherence to policies and procedures. When necessary, document issues in performance and develop improvement plans.
Schedule and preside over regular faculty meetings, which inform the faculty and provide an opportunity for faculty input.
Represent the department to off-campus individuals and groups.
In concert with the Dean, participate in the strategic planning of the College.
Serve as the liaison between the Department and the Dean.
Inform the Dean of developments within the Department.
Review/approve class schedules and ensure timely matriculation of students; equitable distribution of courses
Manage and recommend adjunct hires and faculty overloads (as necessary)
Prepare annual departmental reports describing accomplishments
Resolve issues with faculty and students in the Department (when possible)
Cultivate interpersonal relations among the faculty and staff and make positive contributions to department morale
Attend university and college chair council meetings
Maintain and seek new certifications for the Department programs
Respond to additional duties/assignments as requested