Job Summary

The School of Mechanical Engineering (ME) and the Lyles School of Civil and Construction Engineering (LSCCE) at Purdue University invite applications for a non-tenure track Faculty of Engineering Practice position at the rank of associate or full professor. An appointment in either School or a joint appointment is possible. Purdue University seeks to attract exceptional candidates with interests and expertise in solid mechanics, structural analysis, design, manufacturing, automation, dynamics, and/or vibration. Successful candidates must hold a Ph.D. degree, or an MSc. degree with at least 10 years of professional experience, in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Bridge Engineering, Design and Manufacturing, Automation, or a related discipline by the start date of employment. The successful candidate will have to identify an area of engineering practice that integrates their professional experiences with the Schools of Mechanical and/or Civil and Construction Engineering’s research, education, and/or engagement/outreach programs. The successful candidate will teach undergraduate core and elective courses. There will be opportunities to teach graduate level courses and to be involved in research.  Additionally, the candidate will assist with student experiential learning activities, support the Schools through industry outreach, and/or contribute to senior capstone design activities. The location of this position, including teaching responsibilities, is in Indianapolis.

Schools and College

The School of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University is ranked 4th nationally for undergraduate programs, 8th for graduate programs, and 1st for online graduate programs by U.S. News and World Report. The School of ME is one of the largest in the nation, with approximately 3400 undergraduate students, 1250 graduate students, 125 faculty, and 70 staff. The School of ME is home to several high-profile research laboratories with significant infrastructure and a long tradition of collaboration with industry, national laboratories, and other universities, including Ray W. Herrick Labs, Maurice Zucrow Labs, and Maha Labs.  Purdue University motorsports engineering program has partnered with Dallara, offering students real-world hands-on training and access to cutting-edge design, aerodynamics, controls and vehicle systems in the heart of motorsports industry.

The Lyles School of Civil and Construction Engineering at Purdue University in ranked 4th nationally for undergraduate programs, 7th for graduate programs, and 1st for online Master of Science in Civil Engineering by U.S. News and World Report. LSCCE has 564 students majoring in Civil Engineering (BSCE) and 94 in Construction Engineering (BSCNE). LSCCE Burke Graduate Program has 201 MSCE and 172 PhD students. There are 60 faculty, 6 lecturers, and 56 staff members supporting teaching, research, outreach, and operations. The School has large, world-class, teaching and research facilities such as the Robert L. and Terry L. Bowen Laboratory for Large-Scale Civil Engineering Research, the Christopher and Susan Burke Hydraulics and Hydrology Laboratory, the S-BRITE Center for Steel Bridge Research, Inspection, Training and Education, and the Harold Michael Traffic Operations Laboratory.

The Schools of ME and CCE are integral parts of Purdue Engineering. Purdue Engineering is renowned for top-notch faculty and students, unique research facilities and innovations, and a culture of collegiality and persistent pursuit of preeminence. As one of the top ranked and largest engineering colleges in the nation, we are the first among U.S. engineering colleges in annual graduates and market demand, and have 8 degree programs ranked in the top 10 nationally. Purdue Engineering is a top-ranked college for patents and translation of our research activities to practice in the state, nation, and world.  More than 70 Purdue Engineering faculty and alumni are National Academy of Engineering members, and we look to continue bringing outstanding faculty to campus, remaining the leader in affordable excellence at scale by guiding strategic growth through investment in people, exciting initiatives, and facilities.

Application Process

To apply, please submit an application to this site including (1) a cover letter, (2) a complete curriculum vitae, (3) a two-page teaching plan, (4) a two-page plan that defines the area of engineering practice, and (5) names and contact information for at least three references. The search committee may contact references to request letters. For information/questions regarding applications, contact Academic Affairs, College of Engineering, at coeacademicaffairs@purdue.edu. Review of applications will begin on November 8th, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. A background check is required for employment in this position.

Purdue and the College of Engineering have a Concierge Program that provides dual career assistance and relocation services.

Purdue University offers immigration sponsorship (including both employment-based work visas and permanent residence) for highly qualified international candidates hired into eligible faculty positions, in accordance with applicable federal immigration laws and university policies.

Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access university.