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 applicant 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 Masters 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.

Educational requirements include a Master’s degree, with at least one degree (undergraduate or graduate) in applied engineering or related field. 

QUALIFICATIONS: Required qualifications include 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.

Preference will be given to candidates with an 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.

Applications received by September 30, 2024 will receive full consideration. The annual salary range for this position is $100,000-$130,000. To apply, visit http://jobs.uni.edu/. For more information, please contact Dr. Deirdre Heistad, Search Committee Chair, at 319-273-2518 or e-mail at d.heistad@uni.edu. Pre-employment background checks required. 

The University of Northern Iowa (UNI), located in Cedar Falls, Iowa, is one of three state universities in Iowa and the only comprehensive institution. 

A member of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), the institution has been honored with two AASCU Excellence and Innovation Awards in the past five years. The first award, in the area of Student Success and College Completion, recognized UNI’s peer mentoring program and its focus on first-year students, making them feel at home and putting them on a path to success. The second award for Regional and Economic Development acknowledged the UNI Regional Entrepreneurship Project, reaching into 17 Iowa counties to develop a customized strategic plan in each area, thus assisting local leadership in success for their local economies. The University and its faculty, staff, and students are ranked consistently and recognized regionally and nationally for success.

Founded in 1876, the University’s enrollment is approximately 9,000 students in five colleges: the College of Education; College of Business; College of Humanities, Arts and Sciences; College of Social and Behavioral Sciences; and the Graduate College. UNI is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission; there are many programs within the institution that have discipline- specific accreditation based on their high quality.

In addition to a robust academy of faculty focused on teaching, research and service, outside the classroom UNI’s vibrant campus is home to more than 260 student clubs and organization, 17 Division 1 collegiate sport teams, a multitude of fine arts options and more.