Department Chair

The Ohio State University•Columbus, OH

20h•Onsite

About The Position

The College of Engineering at The Ohio State University invites applications and nominations for the position of Chair of the Department of Aviation. The department seeks a leader who can realize our vision of becoming the inaugural chair who is grounded in Ohio State’s shared values. This position will start as early as August 2026. The Chair of the Department of Aviation should be a bold leader who can envision innovative pathways to the future of Aviation education at Ohio State. The Chair uses their effective communication and interpersonal skills to build on existing relationships across three colleges and among Ohio State’s Aerospace program, Flight Education, and The Ohio State University Airport – Don Scott. The Center for Aviation Studies recently became the Department of Aviation in order to continue to grow in size and influence over the next 5 to 10 years. Through their strong record of ethical behavior, integrity and transparency, the Chair cultivates and sustains an environment that encourages people to meet their full potential, including through faculty and staff development, hiring and retention, and student recruitment and retention. The Chair, who reports to the Dean of the College of Engineering, is responsible for all administrative, budgetary, and personnel decisions within the Department of Aviation, and will be responsible for leadership, management, and strategic vision for the next phase of the department’s growth. The Department Chair serves as the academic and administrative head of the Department of Aviation and represents the faculty in dealings with the Dean and University administration. Appointed for a four-year term and subject to annual review, the Chair is responsible for providing strategic leadership, ensuring effective governance, and advancing the academic mission of the Department in alignment with College and University priorities. The Chair is accountable for fostering a culture of trust, transparency, and shared governance grounded in Ohio State’s Shared Values. Through inclusive, consultative leadership, the Chair supports faculty, staff, and student success; promotes excellence in teaching, research, and service; and ensures the long-term vitality and sustainability of the Department.

Requirements

Earned doctorate in aviation, or a closely related field
The professional qualifications and credentials necessary to be appointed at the rank of full professor in the Department of Aviation.
Demonstrated expertise as an innovative scholar in aviation research characterized by robust external funding and publications in top disciplinary journals

Nice To Haves

Ability to develop, articulate and execute a strong strategic vision for the department
Experience in leading people and managing academic programs and budgets
A collaborative leadership style that builds and grows relationships within, and between, the department, the three colleges, the Air Transportation and Aerospace Campus, University, and external stakeholders, such as alumni, parents, business, government and the local community
A commitment to academic excellence and interdisciplinary education at the undergraduate level
A commitment to collaborative research and a track record of competitive research funding from a variety of sources
A record of service to, and leadership of, the profession within a university or research organization
Demonstrated ability and/or previous experience working collaboratively with college and university administrators and leaders to achieve departmental goals and objectives.
A history of engaging in national or international partnerships, entrepreneurial activities, industrial partnerships, and/or external fundraising.

Responsibilities

Oversee the department's programs and operations.
Develop and maintain a pattern of administration in consultation with faculty.
Ensure efficient and timely operation of departmental business.
Schedule regular faculty meetings and maintain minutes.
Consult with faculty on policy matters and ensure majority faculty rule is respected.
Involve faculty in the selection and review of new members.
Prepare criteria and procedures for appointments, dismissals, salary adjustments, promotions, and tenure.
Evaluate faculty periodically and inform them of their rights regarding personnel files.
Recommend faculty appointments, promotions, and dismissals to the dean.
Encourage and support scholarly and educational innovation.
Promote improvement of instruction through course evaluations and reviews.
Ensure equitable distribution of faculty duties in instruction, scholarship, and service.
Prepare annual budget recommendations in consultation with faculty.
Plan regular evaluations of instructional and administrative processes for improvement.
Cultivate relationships with alumni, industry partners, and other stakeholders.
Identify and pursue external funding opportunities in partnership with University Advancement and designated staff.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package
Medical, dental and vision coverage, with Ohio State paying a significant portion of the cost.
Paid time off, including sick and vacation time and 11 holidays.
State retirement plan or an alternative retirement plan, both with generous employer contributions.
Access to a depth and breadth of opportunities and resources.
Dual career partner consultation
Potential employer and/or employment opportunity identification
Consultation and resources related to relocation
Identifying opportunities to engage on campus and in the surrounding community
Work-life balance policies