Assistant Professor in Manufacturing, Materials, or Mechanics

University of Minnesota; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 115,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Tuition benefit program

Low-cost health plans

Job summary

University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, is hiring a tenure-track assistant professor in manufacturing, materials, or mechanics. The successful candidate will conduct vigorous research and teach graduate- and undergraduate-level courses, contributing to a diverse student body.

The department emphasizes collaboration across the university, with potential graduate appointment in Chemical Engineering and Materials Science. Ph.D. requirements by August 2027 are noted.

Qualifications

• Established track record of publication in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Experience teaching or as a teaching assistant for engineering courses.
• Experience in preparing proposals or fellowships.

Responsibilities

• Conduct vigorous, innovative research and teach graduate- and undergraduate-level courses.
• Grow strategic collaborations across the department and the University.

Skills

Publication track record

Teaching experience

Proposal writing

Education

Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Job description

About the Job

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities (UMN ME) invites highly qualified applicants for a full-time, tenure-track assistant professor position in manufacturing, materials, or mechanics.

Successful candidates will complement our department's current expertise and grow strategic synergistic collaborations across the department and the University. The candidate will also be considered for a graduate appointment in the Chemical Engineering and Materials Science Department. Note: this is not a joint appointment.

Applicants must have an earned Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in mechanical engineering, or a closely related discipline, by the date of appointment (see below for more details). A successful candidate is expected to have the potential to conduct vigorous, innovative research and to effectively teach graduate- and undergraduate-level courses to a diverse group of engineering students. The candidate's research and teaching activities should enhance the department's mission (https://cse.umn.edu/me/about).

Qualifications

We seek candidates with the following qualifications:

• Required Qualifications:
  
  
  
  • A Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, or evidence of completion of Ph.D. requirements by August 2027.
  
  
  
  


• Preferred Qualifications:
  
  
  
  • An established track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals; experience in teaching or serving as a teaching assistant for engineering courses; experience in preparing proposals or/and fellowship applications.
  
  
  
  

About the Department

UMN ME provides a high-quality student experience grounded in a research-integrated education, with learning opportunities that leverage the unique aspects of our department and state. Our research encompasses all areas of mechanical engineering and addresses societal challenges in energy transition, environment and sustainability, human health, next-generation manufacturing, and robotics and mobility.

The department is home to 44 faculty members, 247 graduate students, and 458 undergraduate students. It is part of the College of Science and Engineering, a highly interdisciplinary college comprising 12 departments. The University is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $115,000 - $130,000 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off


• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program


• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans


• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts


• University HSA contributions


• Disability and employer-paid life insurance


• Employee wellbeing program


• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution


• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity


• Financial counseling services


• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost


• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.