Chief Applied Engineering Administrator

The University of Northern Iowa’s Division of Academic Affairs seeks applications for the position of Chief Applied Engineering Administrator, estimated to start in January 2025. Reporting directly to the Provost, this two-year term appointment may develop into a full-time tenure-eligible position beyond the initial term. The successful candidate will dedicate a full-time effort to help the Provost’s administrative team develop the academic structures, professional networks, and approvals necessary to launch a new Department of Applied Engineering (planned for Fall 2025). The successful candidate will be eligible to apply for a faculty or departmental leadership position based on qualifications and experience. The successful candidate also may be eligible for the “Faculty Recruitment” tuition reimbursement program meant to support faculty in pursuing a graduate degree relevant for the UNI academic program in which faculty assignment is housed.

In spring 2024, the University of Northern Iowa opened a state-of-the-art, applied engineering building providing the physical backdrop for this new position. To promote and nurture UNI’s distinctiveness, provide a more focused student experience, and strengthen marketing and recruitment opportunities, the institution seeks to divide, pending necessary approvals, the existing Department of Applied Engineering and Technical Management into two distinct departments, Construction Management and Applied Engineering. 

We are seeking an energetic, strategic thinker to build the applied engineering program and develop a culture of innovation, while maintaining exceptionally close collaborations with local and regional industry partners. Applied Engineering at UNI prides itself on providing hands-on learning designed in partnership with industry standards and needs.  Majors include Automation Engineering Technology; Electrical Engineering Technology; Graphic Technology; Manufacturing Engineering Technology; Materials Science and Engineering; Materials Science Engineering Technology; Technology and Engineering Education; and Technology Management (online). UNI also offers a Master's of Science in Technology Degree with three emphases: Technology Management; Information and Electrical Engineering Technology; and Metal Casting. Two auxiliary units, the UNI Foundry 4.0 Center and Metal Casting Center, located nearby at the Techworks campus in Waterloo, Iowa are also integral divisions.

UNI is a progressive and forward-thinking university whose focus is on serving the needs of Iowans. Come join a dynamic and dedicated team that cares about students and each other, and where your ideas are welcomed.  The University of Northern Iowa is proud of its history and has adaptively developed outstanding new programs to meet the needs of its students and community.  The university also boasts of recent growth to over 9,200 students, who have access to world-class faculty, facilities, and academic choices characteristic of a much larger university. Located in Cedar Falls/Waterloo, the campus comprises more than 40 buildings on 940 acres. For more information, visit chief-aea.uni.edu.

Required Qualifications: Master’s degree, with at least one degree (undergraduate or graduate) in applied engineering or related field; at least five years of leadership experience in a university or commensurate industry management experience; University teaching and/or relevant industry training experience; and effective verbal and written communication skills required.

Preferred Qualifications: Earned doctorate degree; demonstrated successful project management experience; a combination of university and industry experience; the ability to develop external relationships; and evidence of leadership excellence and innovation preferred.

Position Details:

Job Category:  Academic Administrator

Service Schedule:  Calendar Year

Annual Salary Range: $100,000 to $130,000

For more information, please contact Dr. Deirdre Heistad, Search Committee Chair, at 319-273-2518 or e-mail at d.heistad@uni.edu. Curriculum Vita and cover letter required when applying. Applications received by 9/30/2024 will receive first consideration. Pre-employment background checks required. 

UNI is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. The University encourages applications from persons of color, women, individuals living with disabilities, and veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, creed, disability, ethnicity, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran or military status, or any other basis protected by federal and/or state law.