Department Chair, Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing

About the University:

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology is a private, nonprofit university built around a clear idea: that a STEM education should be accessible, innovative, and connected to the real world. Founded in 2001, HU has grown from a small startup campus into a vibrant academic community in the heart of downtown Harrisburg, with a reach that now extends well beyond Pennsylvania through online programs and international partnerships. Employees here join an institution young enough to move quickly and established enough to offer real stability and room to grow.

Mission-driven work. Every role at HU, whether in the classroom or behind the scenes, supports the same goal: making high-quality science and technology education accessible and affordable. Staff and faculty alike can point to specific ways their work shows up in a student's success, which is not something every employer can offer.

A culture built for change. HU operates like a young, agile institution rather than a large traditional university. Employees are encouraged to bring forward ideas, try new approaches, and work with emerging technology rather than waiting for it to trickle down through layers of bureaucracy.

Students at the center. Our students are the reason the university exists, and that shows in how faculty and staff talk about their work. People here take real pride in helping students succeed, not as a mission statement on a wall but as the daily measure of a job well done.

A genuinely inclusive community. HU is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and to building a workplace where people from different backgrounds feel welcome, supported, and able to do their best work.

Room to grow. Employees are encouraged to keep learning and advancing, with opportunities to take on meaningful projects rather than staying in a narrow lane. For many people, that means a career here looks different five years in than it did on day one.

Join us at Harrisburg University, where your work helps shape the future of science, technology, and education!

About the Role:

The Department Chair for Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing plays a pivotal leadership role in shaping the academic and operational excellence of the department. This position is responsible for fostering a collaborative environment that promotes innovative teaching, cutting-edge research, and strong industry partnerships. The Chair will guide curriculum development to ensure alignment with current technological advancements and workforce needs, preparing students for successful careers. Additionally, the role involves strategic planning, resource management, and faculty development to enhance the department's reputation and impact. Ultimately, the Chair serves as a key liaison between the department, the broader institution, and external stakeholders to advance the mission of educational excellence and community engagement.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A doctoral degree in Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing, or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of five years of experience in higher education teaching and academic leadership roles.
• Demonstrated record of scholarly research and publications in relevant engineering or manufacturing disciplines.
• Proven experience in curriculum development and program accreditation processes.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to lead diverse teams and engage multiple stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with grant writing and securing external funding for academic programs or research projects.
• Familiarity with emerging technologies such as Industry 4.0, automation, and additive manufacturing.
• Prior experience in fostering industry partnerships and managing collaborative research initiatives.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within academic settings.
• Experience with online and hybrid instructional delivery methods.

Responsibilities:

• Provide visionary leadership and administrative oversight for the Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing department, including faculty recruitment, evaluation, and professional development.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve academic programs and curricula to meet evolving industry standards and accreditation requirements.
• Manage departmental budgets, resources, and facilities to support teaching, research, and community outreach activities effectively.
• Foster partnerships with industry, government, and other educational institutions to enhance research opportunities, internships, and job placements for students.
• Promote a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the department, ensuring an inclusive environment for students, faculty, and staff.

Skills:

The successful candidate will utilize leadership and strategic planning skills daily to guide the department toward achieving its academic and research goals. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for collaborating with faculty, students, and external partners, ensuring alignment and engagement across diverse groups. Analytical and organizational skills will be applied to manage budgets, resources, and accreditation requirements effectively. The ability to innovate and adapt curricula will be critical in responding to technological advancements and industry trends. Additionally, skills in grant writing and partnership development will support the department's growth and sustainability.