Dean, Engineering & Computer Science – Visionary Leader

Calvin University; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Calvin University in Grand Rapids, MI, seeks a visionary Dean to lead the School of Engineering and Computer Science. The Dean advances academic excellence, forges external partnerships, and guides curricular innovation in a Christ-centered context.

The role requires strong leadership, fundraising, and program development experience, with a commitment to integrating faith, ethics, and technology in engineering and computing education.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in engineering, computer science, or a closely related discipline.
• Significant leadership experience in higher education, industry, or related setting.
• Demonstrated commitment to Christian higher education and Calvin University’s mission.
• Ability to articulate integration of Christian faith, ethical reflection, and technological excellence.
• Strong fundraising, donor relations, grant development, or external resource development.
• Evidence of successful collaboration across disciplines and organizational units.
• Strong communication, administrative, and relational skills.
• Experience managing people, budgets, programs, or strategic initiatives.
• Ability to represent the School credibly to external audiences including employers, donors, and alumni.

Responsibilities

• Provide visionary leadership for the launch, growth, and long-term development of the School.
• Develop and implement a strategic plan aligning academic excellence, enrollment, and funding.
• Establish the Dean’s Office as a leadership and operational hub with staffing and planning processes.
• Lead the School to avoid academic siloing and ensure responsiveness to evolving needs.
• Align priorities with Calvin’s mission to educate students to think deeply and act justly.
• Partner with Advancement to secure philanthropic support for priorities.
• Cultivate donor relationships for compensation, program innovation, and facilities.
• Build external partnerships with employers, alumni, sponsors, and industry partners.
• Champion curricular innovation and high-impact experiential learning opportunities.

Skills

Leadership

Fundraising

Strategic planning

External relations

Communication

Budget management

Team building

Public speaking

Education

Advanced degree (PhD or terminal) in engineering/computing or related discipline

Tools

ABET accreditation experience

Academic administration experience

Job description

Calvin University in Grand Rapids, MI, seeks a visionary Dean to lead the School of Engineering and Computer Science. The Dean advances academic excellence, forges external partnerships, and guides curricular innovation in a Christ-centered context.

The role requires strong leadership, fundraising, and program development experience, with a commitment to integrating faith, ethics, and technology in engineering and computing education.